Sheer Heart Attack - Brighton Rock
#
Lyric / Section
Interpretation & Notes
1
Intro — carnival organ
Opens playfully with a seaside fairground organ, setting the Brighton Pier holiday atmosphere before chaos begins.
2
“Happy little day, Jimmy went away”
Narrative of a young couple meeting secretly; innocence mixed with rebellion — classic seaside romance cliché twisted into rock drama.
3
“Oh rock of ages, do not crumble”
Comic exaggeration of passion — love framed in mock-biblical terms, a mix of parody and sincerity.
4
Main riff + verses
Punchy glam-rock energy; Brian May’s guitar locks with Roger’s drums, contrasting with the playful lyrical story.
5
Extended guitar solo (live staple)
One of May’s most famous solos; layered harmonies and “guitar choir” experiments, expanded live into 10+ minute showcases.
6
Outro reprise
Returns to the narrative; ends tongue-in-cheek, reinforcing the balance between camp storytelling and virtuosic rock.
Note: Written by Brian May. Combines seaside storytelling with flamboyant guitar heroics; became a concert highlight throughout Queen’s career.
