In this special mini-pod / bonus episode of Killer Queen Conversations, the tables are turned as host Shane McDonald steps into the podcast guest seat!

Best known as the creator of Shane’s Queen Site and Celebrating Queen Keyboardist and host of the Killer Queen Conversations Queen fan podcast, Shane answers the very questions he usually asks his guests. From first discovering Queen, favourite albums and songs, treasured memories, live experiences, deep-cut choices, and the magic that keeps Queen’s music alive, this episode offers a personal look at Shane’s own Queen journey.

It’s a fun, reflective, and energetic bonus episode for Queen fans old and new — packed with memories, opinions, stories, and plenty of love for the greatest rock band of all time.

Whether you’re a longtime listener or just discovering the podcast, this mini-pod is a chance to get to know the voice behind Killer Queen Conversations a little better.

EXTENDED PODCAST DESCRIPTION

This episode marks the end of Series 1 and offers listeners a more personal insight into Shane’s own Queen journey — from discovering music at home through artists like The Moody Blues, ABBA, Glen Campbell, and Irish country music, to the moment Queen II became his gateway into the world of Queen. Shane recalls buying his early Queen albums, learning songs by ear, playing along with live concerts, and how Freddie Mercury and Brian May became, in many ways, his musical teachers.

Across this bonus episode, Shane dives into fan-favourite topics including his first Queen memories, the first songs he heard, the albums he returns to most, the Queen era he gravitates towards, and the concerts he wishes he could have attended. He shares memories of watching Live Aid live, seeing Queen with Paul Rodgers in Paris, and performing today with Celebrating Queen, including upcoming shows in California and Las Vegas.

There are also plenty of deep dives for Queen fans: underrated tracks, favourite videos, Freddie’s vocals, Brian’s guitar work, John Deacon’s bass lines, Roger Taylor’s drumming, Queen’s songwriting magic, and why the band’s catalogue continues to resonate so strongly. Shane also reflects on the future of the podcast, plans for Series 2, and upcoming changes to the way episodes and piano tutorials will be produced.

Warm, honest, funny, and packed with Queen passion, this mini-pod is both a thank-you to listeners and a behind-the-scenes look at the voice behind Killer Queen Conversations and Shane’s Queen Site. Whether you’re a longtime Queen fan or a new listener, this bonus episode is a perfect chance to get to know Shane, his musical story, and the Queen songs that shaped it.

This Queen Fan Podcast has Episodes which are released on YouTube and a shorter version released once a month on the Podcast streaming platforms. Currently on a Summer Break the Podcast returns in September 2026. if you wish to take part or wish to sponsor the show please email webmaster@shanesqueensite.com

Step into another unforgettable episode of Killer Queen Conversations, the Queen fan podcast hosted by me, Shane McDonald of Shane’s Queen Site, where the music, legacy, and enduring magic of Queen are explored through passionate discussion and exclusive interviews.

In this special episode, we are joined by the incredible JJ Midnight — the powerhouse lead vocalist of Celebrating Queen and the driving force behind the Everybody Sings Project. Known for his remarkable vocal range and deep understanding of Freddie Mercury’s artistry, JJ has spent decades studying and performing Queen’s music, delivering a live experience that captures both the precision and spirit of the original recordings.

Celebrating Queen has earned a reputation as one of the foremost tribute acts to Queen worldwide, blending theatrical production, powerful live instrumentation, and authentic vocal harmonies to recreate the magic of Queen’s legendary performances. Through JJ’s leadership, the band doesn’t simply imitate — it celebrates the depth, complexity, and emotional impact of Queen’s catalogue in a way that resonates with audiences across generations.

JJ, as founder of the Everybody Sings Project, he champions the idea that singing is not just entertainment, but a powerful tool for education, wellbeing, and community connection. The project encourages audiences to actively participate in music, reinforcing the belief that Freddie Mercury’s legacy lives on not just in performance, but in shared human expression.

In this episode, we dive deep into JJ’s journey — from discovering Queen and honing his craft, to building one of the most authentic tribute experiences in the world. We explore what it truly means to interpret Freddie Mercury’s voice, the responsibility that comes with preserving such an iconic legacy, and the emotional connection that fans continue to have with Queen’s music decades later.

A major focus of the conversation is the upcoming global celebrations of Freddie Mercury’s 80th birthday, a milestone that will bring fans together around the world. At the heart of this is the highly anticipated “Las Vegas Queen Convene: Freddie’s 80th Birthday Bash”, taking place on September 5th, 2026 at the iconic Hard Rock Cafe on the Las Vegas Strip.

Hosted by Celebrating Queen and supported by the Everybody Sings Project, this event promises to be one of the most exciting Queen celebrations of the year — combining the energy of a live concert with the community spirit of a fan convention. Attendees can expect immersive performances, passionate fan interaction, and a vibrant atmosphere dedicated to honouring Freddie Mercury’s legacy.

We discuss what makes this Las Vegas event so special — particularly for fans who may not be able to attend the traditional celebrations in Montreux — and how it represents a uniquely American tribute to Freddie’s enduring influence. With multiple shows planned and demand already building, it’s shaping up to be a defining moment for the Queen fan community in 2026.

Throughout the episode, JJ shares insights into the preparation behind these large-scale celebrations, the importance of keeping Queen’s music alive in a live setting, and how events like this continue to unite fans from all walks of life.

Whether you’re a lifelong Queen fan, a musician inspired by Freddie Mercury’s genius, or someone discovering this music for the first time, this conversation offers a fascinating look behind the curtain of one of the most dedicated and passionate figures in the Queen tribute world.

So sit back, turn up the volume, and join us for a conversation that celebrates not just the music of Queen, but the community, creativity, and legacy that continues to keep it alive.

This Queen Fan Podcast has Episodes which are released on YouTube and a shorter version released once a month on the Podcast streaming platforms. Currently on a Summer Break the Podcast returns in September 2026. if you wish to take part or wish to sponsor the show please email webmaster@shanesqueensite.com

Welcome to Killer Queen Conversations Episode 4 - The Queen Fan Podcast from Shane's Queen Site.

In Killer Queen Conversations EP04 we meet Philip Copping of the Queen Tribute Band Supersonic Queen.

Philip Copping of Supersonic Queen
What does it take to step into the yellow jacket of the greatest frontman of all time?
In this episode, I’m joined by Philip Copping, lead singer of the premier UK tribute band Supersonic Queen. Philip shares his incredible journey from a cathedral choirboy to performing 100 shows a year as Freddie Mercury. We dive deep into the technicalities of Queen’s music, the psychology of performing, and a massive "secret" project …

In this interview, we discuss:
• The "Flash Gordon" Spark: How a 10-year-old Philip found his "jumping on point" for Queen fandom.

• Overcoming Stage Fright: How adopting the persona of Freddie Mercury acted as a "mask" that allowed Philip to conquer performance anxiety in his 40s.

• Life on the Road: The reality of performing 85–100 shows a year and the unique bond between tribute band members (and how they mirror the real Queen!).

• Musical Deep Dives: From the Lydian mode to the genius of the Sheer Heart Attack album.

About Philip Copping & Supersonic Queen
Philip joined Supersonic Queen five years ago, turning a lifelong passion into a full-time career. The band is renowned for its high-energy, authentic recreations of Queen's greatest hits and deep cuts, fostering a global community through their "Friends of Supersonic Queen" group.

Connect with the Guest:
• Website: https://www.supersonicqueen.com/


Enjoyed this? Check out my site Shanesqueensite.com for more Queen piano tutorials, sheet music, and interviews with the people keeping the Queen legacy alive.

This Queen Fan Podcast has Episodes which are released on YouTube and a shorter version released once a month on the Podcast streaming platforms. Currently on a Summer Break the Podcast returns in September 2026. if you wish to take part or wish to sponsor the show please email webmaster@shanesqueensite.com