Roger Taylor facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Roger Taylor
|
|
|---|---|
Taylor performing in 2008
|
|
| Background information | |
| Born | 26 July 1949 Dersingham, Norfolk, England |
| Origin | London, England |
| Genres | Rock |
| Occupation(s) |
|
| Instruments |
|
| Years active | 1968–present |
| Associated acts |
|
Roger Meddows Taylor (born on July 26, 1949) is a famous English musician, singer, and songwriter. He is best known as the drummer for the legendary rock band Queen. Roger also sings and writes many songs. He has been a key part of Queen's success for many years.
Contents
Early Life and Music Beginnings
Roger Taylor was born in Dersingham, Norfolk, England. When he was seven, his family moved to Truro, Cornwall. He started playing music at a young age. His first instrument was the ukulele, then he learned guitar. But he soon found his true passion: drums.
First Bands and Influences
Roger joined his first band, The Bubblingover Boys, in 1961. He played guitar in this band. Later, he became a drummer for a local band called Johnny Quale and the Reaction. They played many shows in Cornwall. Roger was inspired by drummers like Mitch Mitchell and Keith Moon. He loved their energetic drumming styles.
In 1967, Roger moved to London. He studied dentistry and then biology at university. But his main focus was always music. He joined a band called Smile with Brian May and Tim Staffell. This band was a very important step.
Forming Queen
Smile eventually broke up. But Roger and Brian May still wanted to make music. They met Freddie Mercury, a talented singer. In 1970, they formed a new band called Queen. John Deacon joined as the bassist in 1971. This completed the classic Queen lineup.
Roger's Role in Queen
As Queen's drummer, Roger was known for his powerful and unique drumming style. He also had a strong singing voice. He often sang lead vocals on some of Queen's songs. He wrote or co-wrote many famous Queen songs. These include "Radio Ga Ga," "A Kind of Magic," and "These Are the Days of Our Lives."
Roger's drumming was a big part of Queen's sound. He helped create their huge, stadium-rock anthems. He was also very creative in the studio. He helped produce many of their albums.
Solo Career and Other Projects
Besides Queen, Roger Taylor has also had a successful solo career. He released his first solo album, Fun in Space, in 1981. He played most of the instruments on his solo records.
The Cross
In 1987, Roger formed a new band called The Cross. He was the lead singer and rhythm guitarist. The Cross released three albums. They toured in Europe, playing their own songs and some Queen hits. The band broke up in 1993.
Music After Freddie Mercury
After Freddie Mercury passed away in 1991, Queen continued to work on music. Roger and Brian May released the album Made in Heaven in 1995. This album included Freddie's last recordings.
Roger has continued to perform with Brian May as Queen + Paul Rodgers and Queen + Adam Lambert. They have toured the world, keeping Queen's music alive for new generations of fans.
Legacy and Impact
Roger Taylor is one of the most respected drummers in rock music. His work with Queen has sold millions of records worldwide. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001 with Queen. His songs and drumming have inspired many musicians. He is known for his powerful beats and catchy melodies.
Roger Taylor has received many awards for his music. He was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2020. This was for his services to music. He continues to be an important figure in rock music.
