Benson Boone performs with Brian May at Coachella and announces new album American Heart

Benson Boone stuns Coachella crowd with Brian May duet on Bohemian Rhapsody and reveals new album American Heart.

Singer-songwriter Benson Boone marked a major milestone at Coachella 2025 with a standout performance featuring Queen’s legendary guitarist Brian May. The 22-year-old surprised fans with a powerful rendition of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” performed alongside May and backed by a full choir and theatrical lighting reminiscent of the band’s iconic shows.

Boone began the cover seated at a piano, dressed in a sparkling onesie and fur cape. As the guitar solo approached, he flipped off the piano while May emerged at the top of the stage. The Queen tribute was widely praised and led into Boone’s closer, “Beautiful Things,” the hit that launched his rise.

May teased the collaboration earlier by posting travel selfies with Boone ahead of Coachella, calling him a “truly golden 22-year-old prodigy.” He added that he was proud to call Boone a friend, fueling speculation that was confirmed onstage.

Boone also used the moment to announce his second album, American Heart, arriving June 20, 2025. “This is less like one song and more like 10,” he told the crowd before debuting the title track. He previously told Rolling Stone that the album draws inspiration from Bruce Springsteen, describing it as Americana with a retro vibe.

Boone’s set showcased his range and energy, including performances of “Cry,” “Drunk in My Mind,” and “Slow It Down,” where he backflipped off the piano. He also gave a live debut of “Mystical Magical” and led the crowd in a call-and-response during “Forever and a Day.”

The performance caps off a breakout year for Boone, who saw major success with “Beautiful Things,” earned a Grammy nomination, and completed a major tour following his debut album Fireworks & Rollerblades.