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Watch Queen's Legendary Live Aid Set on Charity Concert's Anniversary
The show raised millions for poverty-stricken Africa — and created some unforgettable performances.
July 13 2020 7:41 PM EST
July 13 2020 3:41 AM EST
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The show raised millions for poverty-stricken Africa — and created some unforgettable performances.
It was three and a half decages ago, July 13, 1985, when Live Aid rocked the world.
The charity concert was broadcast live from London and Philadelphia, with viewers dialing in and donating money for famine relief in Africa. Artists like Mick Jagger, Neil Young, Sade, Madonna, and Elton John performed for the huge audience, which brought in hundreds of millions of dollars for local nonprofits and NGOs.
One of the most memorable sets of the night was by Queen, fronted by charismatic pop star Freddy Mercury. The performance, which included hits like "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "We Are the Champions," consistently ranks as one of the best live sets ever.
Later, the set would be recreated in the Oscar-winning 2018 film Bohemian Rhapsody, which also chronicled Mercury's battle with HIV. The singer ultimately died from complications related to HIV in 1991, becoming the first major rock star lost to AIDS. Watch Queen and Mercury's history-making set below.