Brian May – July 2012 Classic Rock Birthdays

Queen guitarist Brian May will get to blow out the candles on July 19, when he celebrates his 65th birthday. The musician is known as one of the greatest guitarists in rock and roll history, but it almost didn't end up that way.

The musician left school to join the band, but would return in 2007 to finish out his PhD in astrophysics. His creative side would serve him well as his home-built guitar, "Red Special," was crucial in the creation of such Queen hits as 'Tie Your Mother Down,' 'We Will Rock You,' and 'Fat Bottomed Girls.' While you're celebrating Brian's birthday, check out our list "10 Things You Didn't Know About Brian May From Queen."