Brian May Says U.S. Has Become “Too Dangerous” for Tours

Legendary Queen guitarist Brian May has sparked widespread discussion after revealing that touring the United States may no longer be viable for the band due to safety concerns.

In a recent interview, May explained that Queen currently has no plans to tour the U.S., citing what he described as an increasingly dangerous environment. The comments come as the band continues to evaluate its future following years of international touring.

May’s Comments on Touring America

Speaking candidly, May said the decision was not made lightly, particularly given Queen’s long and historic relationship with American audiences.

“America is a dangerous place at the moment, so you have to take that into account,” May said.

He added that the situation is emotionally difficult for the band, noting that Queen’s success was deeply shaped by its U.S. fan base.

“It’s very sad because I feel like Queen grew up in America and we love it, but it’s not what it was.”

Queen’s most recent U.S. shows took place in 2023 as part of the band’s ongoing run with vocalist Adam Lambert, performing under the name Queen + Adam Lambert. Since then, no additional American dates have been announced.

Broader Context Behind the Decision

May did not point to a single incident or specific threat when discussing his concerns. Instead, his remarks appeared to reflect a broader unease about touring conditions in the United States, particularly for large scale productions that involve extensive travel, security planning, and public exposure.

The guitarist’s comments align with a growing conversation among international artists who are reassessing the risks and logistics of touring in certain regions. While the U.S. remains one of the largest live music markets in the world, some performers have expressed concerns about safety, polarization, and unpredictable conditions.

Health and the Future of Queen

May also acknowledged that the future of Queen’s touring schedule remains uncertain overall. Following health issues in recent years, including recovery from a minor stroke, he emphasized that decisions are being made cautiously and without long term commitments.

Rather than ruling out live performances entirely, May suggested that the band is taking things one step at a time and remaining open to opportunities that feel safe and manageable.

Fan Reaction

Reaction from fans has been mixed. Many expressed disappointment at the possibility that Queen may not return to American stages, while others voiced support for the band’s decision to prioritize health and safety. Industry observers note that touring decisions are becoming increasingly complex, even for legacy acts with decades of experience.

For now, Queen’s future performances appear more likely to focus on regions outside the United States, with May making it clear that any return would depend on significant changes in circumstances.