Brian May opposes AI virtual shows

Queen guitarist Sir Brian May has poured cold water on the prospect of Queen returning with an ABBA Voyage-style virtual show because it would involve AI and the 'massive evil' of data centres.

“We all like AI. It helps us write emails. It's even saved a few lives. But the harm it is bringing to the world is immense.”

AI data centres cause environmental harm

May warned that huge data centres require 50 million to 150 million litres of water per year to cool a 100MW centre.

May's concerns about AI ethics

Sir Brian described AI data centres as a 'massive evil' that 'have to be fought' and admitted he is 'not so keen as I was' on the technology.

“I'm not quite sure where I stand on it, because we'd be stealing from the Queen oeuvre.”

Queen's virtual show plans

Queen had explored creating a virtual show similar to ABBA Voyage, which uses digital avatars of the band from their prime in the late 1970s.

May's animal rights background

Sir Brian is a long-time animal rights activist and founded the Save Me Trust which campaigns for the rights of foxes and badgers.

Queen's political stance

Earlier this year, Sir Brian revealed that Queen will never perform at Glastonbury due to the band's political differences with the organisers, the Eavis family.

May's current plans

May and Queen drummer Roger Taylor have been touring with American Idol alum Adam Lambert since 2012 under the Queen and Adam Lambert moniker.

May's comments on AI

Sir Brian said he would 'dread' four films being made out of Queen, accusing the director of stirring resentment between the band.

Queen's future plans

Sir Brian hinted at new music, saying 'It was time to take a break and spend time with family, take stock.

Queen's virtual show concerns

Sir Brian said they would be 'stealing from the Queen oeuvre' and adding to the stresses that AI is adding to the world.

Queen's past success

Queen had six UK number one singles and ten UK number one albums, with hits including Bohemian Rhapsody and We Are The Champions.

ABBA Voyage show

The ABBA Voyage concert has been running since 2022, with more than four million having seen the London show.

May's environmental concerns

May warned that AI data centres require massive amounts of water, with 50 million to 150 million litres needed per year to cool a 100MW centre.

May's stance on AI

Sir Brian described AI data centres as a 'massive evil' that 'have to be fought' and admitted he is 'not so keen as I was' on the technology.

Queen's future plans

May and Roger Taylor have been touring with Adam Lambert since 2012 under the Queen and Adam Lambert moniker, and Sir Brian hinted at new music.

What happens next

Sir Brian said it was 'time to take a break and spend time with family, take stock' but never said Queen would not return.