Queen II Reissue to Feature Long-Lost Freddie Mercury Track

Queen guitarist Brian May has premiered a never-before-heard song. The track is called “Not for Sale (Polar Bear).” It was recorded during sessions for the band’s 1974 album, Queen II.

May shared the work-in-progress mix on his Planet Rock radio show. He confirmed the song will be part of a rebuilt Queen II reissue. This special release is scheduled for 2026.

Ancient Song Revived for New Generation

The song’s origins trace back to the late 1960s. It was first written when the band was called Smile, with vocalist Tim Staffell. According to Rolling Stone, the band later revisited it with Freddie Mercury.

This newly revealed version features Mercury’s iconic vocals. The production is raw and showcases the band’s early creative process. Fans have only ever heard rough bootlegs of the Smile version before.

“To my knowledge no one has ever heard this version,” May stated on air. He described the track as a “very, very ancient song.” Its inclusion completes the historical picture of the Queen II era.

2026 Release Fulfills Longtime Fan Hope

The Queen II reissue has been anticipated for years. May had previously hinted that unreleased cuts would be included. This announcement makes the 2026 release a major event for music historians and fans.

The reissue will offer a deeper look into a pivotal album. It captures Queen’s evolution from their progressive rock roots toward global fame. For listeners, it’s a direct audio portal to the band’s formative studio time.

The premiere of “Polar Bear” confirms the upcoming Queen II reissue as a essential archival release. It delivers a fresh, historic listen from rock’s most legendary lineup.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is the song “Not for Sale (Polar Bear)”?

It is a previously unreleased Queen track. Brian May just premiered a version recorded with Freddie Mercury. The song dates back to the band’s earliest days.

When will the Queen II reissue be released?

The reissue is scheduled for 2026. An exact date has not been announced yet. Brian May confirmed the plan during his radio show.

Who originally wrote “Polar Bear”?

The song was first written by the pre-Queen band Smile. This was in the late 1960s with singer Tim Staffell. Queen later reworked it with Freddie Mercury on vocals.

Where was the new version premiered?

Brian May played it on his year-end Planet Rock radio show. He introduced it as a special sneak peek for fans. The official release will come with the reissue.

Why is this reissue significant?

It provides new material from a classic album era. It features the unique vocals of Freddie Mercury. The release offers a complete picture of the band’s creative journey.