"The Game" is the eighth studio album by the British rock band Queen, released on 30 June 1980 by EMI Records in the UK and Elektra Records in the US. Here are the key details about the album:
"The Game" marked a departure from Queen's previous album, "Jazz" (1978), by introducing a different sound that incorporated synthesizers for the first time in their studio albums. The Oberheim OB-X synthesizer featured prominently, adding a new dimension to their music.
"The Game" was both a critical and commercial success for Queen. It became their first album to reach number one on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States. It also became their best-selling studio album in the US, with sales of over four million copies, a figure tied with their album "News of the World."
The album produced several notable hits, including:
- "Another One Bites the Dust," a bass-driven funk track that became a massive success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- "Crazy Little Thing Called Love," a rock and roll-inspired song written by Freddie Mercury, which also topped the charts in the US.
In May 2003, "The Game" was reissued on DVD-Audio with Dolby 5.1 surround sound and DTS 5.1. This reissue included a 5.1 mix of "Coming Soon" with an alternate backing track due to the unavailability of the final master tapes.
"The Game" remains a significant album in Queen's discography, showcasing their ability to adapt and innovate while retaining their distinct sound. It marked a pivotal moment in their career by achieving unprecedented success in the US market and solidifying their status as one of the world's premier rock bands.
In summary, "The Game" by Queen is celebrated for its musical diversity, incorporation of synthesizers, chart-topping singles, and enduring appeal as a classic rock album that pushed boundaries and captivated audiences worldwide.