Freddie Mercury was a British singer, songwriter and pianist who achieved global fame as the lead vocalist and pianist of the rock band Queen, which he co-founded with guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor. Regarded as one of the greatest singers in the history of rock music, he is known for his flamboyant stage persona and four-octave vocal range. Mercury defied the conventions of a rock frontman with his theatrical style, influencing the artistic direction of Queen.