"News of the World" is the sixth studio album by the British rock band Queen, released on October 28, 1977. This album was recorded at Sarm and Wessex Sound Studios in London, co-produced by the band and Mike Stone.
In 1977, the rise of punk rock, particularly acts like the Sex Pistols, prompted a backlash against progressive rock artists like Queen. In response, the band simplified their sound, moving towards a more spontaneous hard rock style. The album achieved significant commercial success, reaching number four on the UK Albums Chart and number three on the US Top Albums chart, selling over 4 million copies in the United States. Its lead single, "We Are the Champions," reached number two in the UK and number four on the Billboard Hot 100. While initial critical reactions were mixed due to the band's shift in style, News of the World is now considered one of Queen's greatest albums, with both "We Are the Champions" and "We Will Rock You" becoming iconic rock anthems.
After completing their "A Day at the Races Tour" in June 1977, Queen entered the studio to begin recording in July. They engaged in extensive drum setup and recording sessions, with both Sarm and Wessex studios hosting the work. The band recorded various tracks, including "It's Late," and mixed songs such as "We Are the Champions" and "We Will Rock You."
Freddie Mercury expressed a desire to shift away from their well-produced sound, stating that they wanted to embark on different projects. Brian May noted that while they aimed for a more basic sound, the hallmark of their music—multi-tracked harmonies and intricate guitar work—remained present, though more subtly.
The album's recording coincided with the Sex Pistols working on Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols at Wessex Studios. This interaction included memorable encounters between band members, including Mercury and Sid Vicious. Mercury's playful engagement with Vicious and the band's overall history with punk rock highlighted a period of musical evolution for Queen amidst changing industry trends.
