Queen became the first British band in history to have a song reach diamond sales certification by the RIAA when "Bohemian Rhapsody" surpassed 10 million sales and streams in the United States.
More than four decades since the iconic song was released, the band remains stunned at its cultural endurance.
“This is incredible news. At times like this I have to pinch myself to be sure it’s real,” said guitarist Brian May. “All those wild dreams we had — this is beyond any of them. Huge thanks to all who have believed in us over the years.”
"Bohemian Rhapsody" reaching diamond sales status (10-times platinum) is the latest in a long line of landmark achievements for the band and one of its most ambitious songs.
“It’s a wonderful and gratifying thought to know the song has reached out and connected with so many people!” added drummer Roger Taylor.“We thank you all...onwards.”
Released in 1975, "Bohemian Rhapsody" was Queen's first Top 10 hit in the U.S., while in the U.K. the song remained at No. 1 for nine consecutive weeks — a record at the time.
It is the most-streamed song of the 20th century, and its music video was the first pre-1990s music video to reach 1 billion views on YouTube.
But the good news doesn't stop there. Queen's Platinum Collection, Vol. 1-3, which compiles all the band's best-known material was also recently certified five-times platinum.
In order to keep delivering the world the Queen content it so craves, the band last week launched a YouTube series Queen the Greatest, a weekly celebration highlighting Queen's greatest moments.
The debut episode of the series, explored the band's first-ever single, 1973's "Keep Yourself Alive." Episode 2 this Friday is titled, "Live At The Rainbow-London 1974." Episode 3, due out April 2 is called, 'The 'turning point' single, 'Killer Queen.'"
Photo: Hollywood Records