Queen – Another One Bites the Dust

About The Song

When it comes to timeless rock anthems, few songs hold the captivating rhythm, memorable lyrics, and cultural influence of “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen. Released in 1980 as part of their The Game album, this track not only broke new ground musically but also helped cement Queen’s legacy as one of the most versatile bands of the 20th century. Blending rock, funk, and disco elements, “Another One Bites the Dust” became an instant classic and took over global charts, resonating with audiences in an era when genres were merging, and music was rapidly evolving.

Beyond its catchy bassline and memorable chorus, the song has a fascinating backstory, layered with technical mastery, unexpected influences, and significant cultural impact that makes it relevant even today. As we explore the song’s background, creation, and legacy, we’ll uncover what makes this Queen classic a timeless track for rock enthusiasts, dancers, and music lovers alike.

The Origins of “Another One Bites the Dust”

The story of “Another One Bites the Dust” starts with Queen’s bassist, John Deacon, who wrote the song with a strong inspiration from the disco and funk rhythms that dominated the late ’70s and early ’80s. As an avid fan of funk, Deacon wanted to bring a fresh, unique sound to Queen’s rock-heavy repertoire, and his inspiration came partly from the sound of legendary funk bands like Chic. Particularly influenced by the bass line in Chic’s “Good Times,” Deacon crafted the unmistakable groove that would come to define the track.

Interestingly, Deacon played almost all the instruments on the track, including the bass guitar, piano, and even the iconic sound effects. This one-man-band approach gave the song a cohesiveness that perhaps wouldn’t have been achieved otherwise. Guitarist Brian May and lead singer Freddie Mercury reportedly added their touches, but the song remained Deacon’s brainchild—a rarity in Queen’s discography, as the band usually collaborated extensively on each song.

How Queen’s Genre-Bending Sound Paid Off

One of the fascinating things about “Another One Bites the Dust” is how it highlights Queen’s versatility. Known for their rock anthems like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You,” Queen wasn’t immediately associated with the funk or disco sound that was taking over the charts at the time. However, this song demonstrated that the band could easily step outside of traditional rock boundaries and masterfully incorporate other genres. Freddie Mercury, ever the musical chameleon, fully embraced the funky style, bringing his signature charisma and intensity to the vocals, which added a layer of attitude to Deacon’s steady, hypnotic beat.

Breaking Records and Chart Success

Upon its release as a single, “Another One Bites the Dust” shot to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, reaching number one in the U.S. and holding that position for three weeks. This feat was unprecedented for Queen, as most of their biggest hits to that point had been successful in the UK and Europe. The song also crossed over onto R&B and disco charts, which was rare for a British rock band at the time. This success highlighted how a well-executed song could transcend genre and reach a wide audience, showing Queen’s global appeal and forward-thinking sound.

Additionally, the song’s popularity was further amplified by the rising influence of music videos. With the advent of MTV in the early 1980s, visuals became an essential part of a song’s success, and Queen capitalized on this trend by releasing an electrifying video that resonated with fans. It was this combination of radio airplay, music video exposure, and a genre-bending sound that propelled the track to international acclaim.

The Michael Jackson Connection

Interestingly, “Another One Bites the Dust” might not have been released as a single without the encouragement of Michael Jackson. Queen members recall meeting Jackson after one of their concerts, where he suggested they release the song due to its hit potential. Jackson, who was a fan of disco and funk, recognized the track’s appeal and encouraged them to bring it to a broader audience. This recommendation turned out to be spot-on, as the single’s success helped Queen break into new territories and demographics.

Lyrics and Themes: An Exploration of Conflict and Survival

Lyrically, “Another One Bites the Dust” is simple yet powerful. The song deals with themes of survival, resilience, and the brutality of competition—ideas that resonate on both personal and societal levels. The phrase “another one bites the dust” suggests a sense of finality, a kind of grim commentary on conflict and the fallout from facing one’s battles, be they internal or external. This universality in theme allowed listeners from various backgrounds to relate to the song, whether they interpreted it as a commentary on personal struggle or a larger social statement.

The song’s lyrics, combined with the relentless beat, almost feel like a march—steadily moving forward, no matter what falls by the wayside. The repetitive bassline and minimalist lyrics make the track hypnotic, as if Deacon and Mercury are inviting the listener into a trance-like experience that emphasizes rhythm over complexity.

Cultural Impact and Lasting Influence

The impact of “Another One Bites the Dust” went beyond the charts and became a significant part of pop culture. The song has been used in countless movies, commercials, and TV shows, often accompanying scenes of victory or challenge. Its iconic beat has made it one of the most recognizable songs in pop culture history, showing up everywhere from sporting events to wedding receptions, demonstrating its wide-ranging appeal.

Furthermore, the song has been sampled and covered by numerous artists across genres, from hip-hop to rock, further underscoring its influence on the music industry. This adaptability highlights how Queen’s music, though rooted in rock, has a versatility that allows it to reach across generations and genres.

Health Benefits: The Song’s Unexpected Role in CPR

In a surprising twist, “Another One Bites the Dust” has been used in CPR training programs due to its steady beat of around 110 beats per minute. This tempo aligns closely with the recommended chest compression rate for performing CPR, making it a useful mnemonic tool for trainees. Though it may seem ironic given the song’s title, many first-aid programs have used it to teach people how to maintain the right rhythm in life-saving procedures.

Conclusion: Why “Another One Bites the Dust” Remains a Timeless Classic

In a career filled with iconic songs and unforgettable performances, “Another One Bites the Dust” stands out as a testament to Queen’s adaptability and innovation. The track marked a significant departure from their typical rock sound, allowing the band to embrace a more rhythmic, danceable groove without sacrificing the powerful lyrics and bold style they were known for. This decision ultimately expanded Queen’s audience and demonstrated that great music can transcend genre, reaching listeners across diverse musical tastes and backgrounds.

From its chart-topping success to its ongoing influence on pop culture and music, “Another One Bites the Dust” showcases the power of risk-taking and genre-blending. The song’s infectious beat, universal themes, and innovative spirit have made it a lasting anthem for resilience and defiance. Today, over four decades after its release, “Another One Bites the Dust” remains a beloved classic—an enduring reminder of Queen’s artistry and the profound impact a single song can have on the world.