Jesus

The song Jesus, written by Freddie Mercury, brings us closer to a more introspective facet of Queen's sound. A clear influence of psychedelic rock is perceived in its structure and vocal arrangements, especially in the choruses that invoke the "Lord". This piece is one of the last where Mercury drew inspiration directly from biblical texts or his own connection with faith, before turning to the creation of imaginary worlds and his own characters in his lyrics. The narrative of Jesus focuses on recounting aspects of the life of Jesus of Nazareth, showing how Brian May's guitar, with his particular Red Special, contributed to many of the early followers seeing Queen as a band with psychedelic undertones.

This composition was born as one of the five demos that Queen recorded at De Lane Lea studios on September 8, 1971, an opportunity to test the facilities. The melody of Jesus shows a connection with the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, which was originally recorded in 1970. Queen's debut album, released in 1973, brought together this and other compositions that explored from heavy metal to progressive rock, with touches of folk. Mercury was the author of five of the tracks on that album, while Brian May contributed four, and Roger Taylor wrote and sang Modern Times Rock and Roll.

The recording of the album took place at Trident Studios and De Lane Lea Music Centre in London, with production by Roy Thomas Baker, John Anthony, and the band members themselves.