Original draft of 'Bohemian Rhapsody' to be auctioned

A recently surfaced draft of the Queen's 'Bohemian Rhapsody' has revealed that the song had an alternate name, and in some verses, different lyrics.

The 1975 hit was shown to have been titled 'Mongolian Rhapsody' before being crossed out on a piece of paper from the now defunct airline British Midland Airways. The page is one of fifteen from early drafts for the rock opera.

Mercury’s original drafts are currently on display in a new auction exhibition at Sotheby’s Auction House in London, 'Freddie Mercury: A World of His Own', which shows some of his private collection and belongings.

Other edits made to the song included alternative lyrics to the infamous nearly six-minute-long second verse. Where the original reads, "Mama, there’s a war began, I’ve got to leave tonight", the final version of the song’s lyrics read, "Mama, just killed a man."

The manuscript is estimated to be auctioned for between $100,000 and $150,000,000. Some of the other items on display include the manuscripts for ‘Somebody To Love’, ‘We Are The Champions’ and ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ which are all autographed by Mercury.

Also displayed are roughly 1,500 items from his London home, which had gone untouched for 30 years. The paraphernalia include a pair of his high-top Adidas sneakers, his aviator sunglasses, a personal leather jacket and other iconic Queen items are available to view. A portion of the sale’s income will go the Mercury Phoenix Trust and the Elton John Aids Foundation.

Did you know ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ was originally titled ‘Mongolian Rhapsody’?

Written entirely by Freddie Mercury, a never-before-seen early draft reveals untold insights into one of the greatest pop songs of the 20th century.

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— Sotheby's (@Sothebys) May 31, 2023

The exhibition will be showcased at Sotheby’s London from August 4 until September 5.

Mary Austin, who has been handling Mercury’s estate and home since his passing in 1991, said in a statement to The Guardian, "Freddie was an incredible and intelligent collector who showed us that there is beauty and fun and conversation to be found in everything. I hope [the exhibitions and auctions] will be an opportunity to share all the many facets of Freddie, both public and private, and for the world to understand more about, and celebrate, his unique and beautiful spirit."