Iconic photos of Sir Brian May through the years to celebrate his 78th birthday

Let’s raise our guitar-shaped mugs and ruffle our curls in salute to the one and only Sir Brian May – Queen guitarist, astrophysicist, animal rights warrior and all-round national treasure!

Born on July 19, 1947, this London lad grew up in the leafy borough of Hampton and went on to become one of the most recognisable (and beloved) rockstars on the planet.

Armed with his legendary homemade "Red Special" guitar (built with his dad, no less – DIY goals!), Brian helped shape Queen’s unmistakable sound, from the soaring solos of Bohemian Rhapsody to the stomp-clap anthem that is We Will Rock You – yes, he wrote that one!

With his wild hair, velvet jackets and guitar wizardry, Brian’s didn’t just create music, he helped create the soundtrack of Great Britain - you could say, It’s A Kind Of Magic!

Beyond the stage, he’s a brainy boy too. A genuine PhD in astrophysics? Check. Co-author of space books and 3D photography enthusiast? Check. Knighted for services to music and charity? Absolutely! Sir Brian has truly done it all – and he’s still going, somehow managing to tour, lecture, write, and rescue hedgehogs (his love for animals is the stuff of legend).

He’s a pop culture icon whose influence stretches far beyond rock 'n' roll. From the West End to the stars (literally – there's an asteroid named after him!), Brian May is a beloved figure who has brought generations together through his genius, his heart, and that magnificent mane.

So here’s to you, Sir Brian, a London boy who rocked the world and reminded us all that brains, heart and a killer guitar solo are a pretty unbeatable combo.

Happy birthday, legend! Long may you strum.