(CNN) — British band Queen’s performance at 1985 charity mega concert Live Aid has gone down in the history books, but it almost didn’t happen, according to members Brian May and Roger Taylor.

These three iconic performances were era-defining, but they almost didn't happen, for one reason or another. Find out why.

On July 13, 1985, music legends on both sides of the Atlantic came together for a cause — raising funds for famine relief in Ethiopia — and made pop culture history. Live Aid was held simultaneously ...

Freddie Mercury peacocking across the stage, pumping his mic stand while 72,000 pairs of hands double clapped in unison during Queen's “Radio Ga Ga.” David Bowie, elegant in his powder blue suit, ...

According to 'Radio Times,' Brian May helped convince Mercury to perform at Live Aid in 1985 PA Images/Getty Freddie Mercury received clear instructions from Bob Geldof ahead of Queen's Live Aid ...

“It’s 12 noon in London, 7 a.m. in Philadelphia, and around the world, it’s time for Live Aid!” BBC DJ and Live Aid host Richard Skinner declared as crowds cheered. It was Saturday, July 13, 1985, and ...

Queen is releasing a new, five-part series exploring the musical evolution that led to 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' which turns 50 ...

40 years ago today, Freddie Mercury and Queen made their legendary appearance at Live Aid, the global phenomenon that was the two-city charity concert. Queen performed at Live Aid in front of 72,000 ...

Bob Geldof opened up about Live Aid and its impact 40 years later in a new interview Geldof said that contrary to popular belief, it was David Bowie’s performance that got donations flooding in, not ...

40 Years Ago, This ’70s Rock Band's Electrifying Performance Changed Live Aid Forever originally appeared on Parade. The 40th anniversary of Live Aid takes place on July 13, 2025, marking four decades ...