Olivia: What does it take to seize immortality in just twenty minutes, especially when time might be running out? Hey everyone, and welcome back to When It Happened. I’m Olivia. Olivia: Today we're looking at "Somebody to Love: The Life, Death and Legacy of Freddie Mercury" by Matt Richards and Mark Langthorne. It explores the incredible contradictions of Freddie – born Farrokh Bulsara, a shy immigrant who became rock's ultimate showman. The book charts his dazzling rise with Queen, his complex private life navigating sexuality in a difficult era, and his devastating battle with AIDS. But amidst declining popularity and whispers about his health, one afternoon cemented his legend... Olivia: Picture it: July 13th, 1985. Wembley Stadium, Live Aid. 72,000 people roaring, millions watching worldwide. Queen needed a comeback. Then Freddie Mercury strides out – white tank top, pure charisma. For 20 electrifying minutes, he owned that stage. From "Bohemian Rhapsody" to the iconic "Ay-Oh" call-and-response during "Radio Ga Ga," he didn’t just sing; he conducted pure energy, uniting the massive crowd as one. It was sheer, unadulterated rock god power condensed into a legendary set. Olivia: This wasn't just a concert; it was a turning point explored throughout the book. Live Aid perfectly captured the intersection of Freddie's public brilliance and his intensely private life, even hinting at the resilience he’d later show battling AIDS. It revitalized Queen's career, yes, but more profoundly, it became the ultimate expression of his philosophy: art transcends, passion conquers. It foreshadowed the fierce creative drive documented in his final years, pouring everything into songs like "The Show Must Go On." Olivia: So, what can we learn? First, embrace your authentic self – that's where true impact lies. Second, art can be our most powerful statement, especially when facing adversity. Freddie's performance reminds us to seize our moments. "Somebody to Love" offers a deep dive into this incredible life. I'm Olivia, and this has been When It Happened.