Queen is a legendary British rock band formed in 1970, known for iconic hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You.”
David Bowie, a groundbreaking English artist, reshaped music with hits like “Space Oddity” and earned numerous awards for his innovative career.
About the Song
“Under Pressure” by Queen and David Bowie is a powerful song about dealing with stress and societal pressure.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | October 26, 1981 |
| Album | Hot Space |
| Writers | Queen, David Bowie |
| Producers | Queen, David Bowie, Mack |
Under Pressure Lyrics by Queen & David Bowie
Intro: Freddie Mercury
Mmm num ba de
Dum bum ba be
Doo buh dum ba beh beh
Verse 1: David Bowie & Freddie Mercury
Pressure
Pushing down on me
Pressing down on you
No man ask for
Under pressure
That burns a building down
Splits a family in two
Puts people on streets
Refrain: Freddie Mercury
Um ba ba be
Um ba ba be
De day da
Ee day da
That’s okay
Chorus: David Bowie & Freddie Mercury
It’s the terror of knowing what this world is about
Watching some good friends screaming, “Let me out”
Pray tomorrow gets me higher
Pressure on people, people on streets
Post-Chorus: Freddie Mercury
Day day de mm hm
Da da da ba ba
Okay
Verse 2: Freddie Mercury
Chipping around, kick my brains ’round the floor
These are the days, it never rains, but it pours
Interlude: Freddie Mercury & David Bowie
Ee do ba be
Ee da ba ba ba
Um bo bo
Be lap
People on streets
Ee da de da de
People on streets
Ee da de da de da de da
Chorus: David Bowie & Freddie Mercury
It’s the terror of knowing what this world is about
Watching some good friends screaming, “Let me out”
Pray tomorrow gets me higher, higher, high
Pressure on people, people on streets
Bridge: David Bowie & Freddie Mercury
Turned away from it all like a blind man
Sat on a fence, but it don’t work
Keep coming up with love, but it’s so slashed and torn
Why, why, why?
Love, love, love, love, love
Insanity laughs under pressure we’re breaking
Similar Songs Like Under Pressure by Queen and David Bowie
Check out these tracks by Queen & David Bowie that align with the themes, sounds, or mood of “Under Pressure.”
- “Radio Ga Ga”: A nostalgic song by Queen, expressing concerns about television overshadowing radio, and celebrating the power of sound.
- “I Want to Break Free”: A bold anthem by Queen, symbolizing freedom and defiance, with a famous music video that challenges norms.
- “Starman”: David Bowie’s “Starman” tells a story of hope, with a cosmic figure reaching out to youth through radio waves.
- “Dancing in the Street”: A vibrant duet between Bowie and Jagger, celebrating unity, joy, and the power of music to bring people together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Inspired the Song Under Pressure?
The song was inspired by the pressures of life, society, and personal struggles. It reflects themes of stress, love, and the human condition.
Was Under Pressure a Collaboration Between Queen and David Bowie?
Yes, Under Pressure is a unique collaboration between Queen and David Bowie. The song features contributions from both artists, blending their distinctive styles.
How Successful was Under Pressure on the Charts?
Under Pressure was a commercial success, reaching #1 on the UK Singles Chart and performing well internationally.
Is there a Music Video for Under Pressure?
No, there is no official music video for Under Pressure, as Queen and David Bowie did not shoot a dedicated video for the song. However, live performances and promotional clips exist.
What is the Significance of the Bassline in Under Pressure?
The iconic bassline, played by John Deacon of Queen, is one of the most recognizable parts of the song and has been praised for its groove and emotional impact.
