Brian May rules out Queen US tours, citing safety concerns
The 78-year-old guitarist told the Daily Mail that America has become too dangerous for the band to tour there in the foreseeable future.
1 min ago
Queen guitarist Brian May has ruled out touring in the United States for the foreseeable future, citing safety concerns in the country.
Speaking to the Daily Mail on Thursday, the 78-year-old said: "America is a dangerous place at the moment, so you have to take that into account. It's very sad because I feel like Queen grew up in America and we love it, but it's not what it was. Everyone is thinking twice about going there at the moment."
May did not specify particular dangers the band might face. His comments come amid concerns about border checks, political tensions, and violence in the United States. In 2025, there were 425 mass shooting incidents in the country, killing 420 people and wounding 1,898, according to available data. Additionally, concerns about ICE agents and examination of political beliefs have been cited by some as deterrents to visiting America.
Queen last performed in the United States in 2023, with American Idol alumnus Adam Lambert serving as vocalist in place of late frontman Freddie Mercury. The band has not played a show since February 2014.
May's decision reflects a broader trend among international performers reconsidering US tours. British dance music artist Piri cancelled a US tour earlier this week, citing "what's going on in the US right now" as a factor. In 2025, Hungarian classical pianist András Schiff also cancelled US concerts due to concerns about the country's current conditions.
May also stated he would not perform at Glastonbury Festival next year, though that event takes place in the United Kingdom rather than the United States. He said this decision stems from disagreement with a practice at the festival, though he did not elaborate further on the specific issue.