How Queen’s Brian May Recaptured ‘Flash Gordon’ Magic for ‘Masters of the Universe’
Composer Daniel Pemberton brought Queen guitarist Brian May into the score for *Masters of the Universe*, aiming for the exuberant rock sound of Queen’s *Flash Gordon* soundtrack. May’s contribution matters because it gives the Eighties-inspired film a direct musical link to that era while helping shape its bold, deliberately campy style.
May joined after Pemberton reached him while they were both at Abbey Road Studios. He then spent about three days at his home studio playing on every cue he could, including the “Eternia” theme, which Pemberton wanted to combine disco energy with powerful rock guitar. May was drawn to the project by memories of his son’s interest in He-Man; two vinyl editions of the score are due next year.
In short
- Brian May played on the *Masters of the Universe* score.
- Pemberton drew inspiration from Queen’s *Flash Gordon* soundtrack.
- The “Eternia” theme blends camp, disco and rock.
Explained simply
Queen are a British rock band whose guitarist, Brian May, helped create the music for the 1980 science-fiction film Flash Gordon. The film’s soundtrack mixed rock with the action and fantasy of the story, and has remained associated with the era.
Masters of the Universe is based on the He-Man fantasy franchise, set in the fictional world of Eternia. Its bold style draws on the look and feel of 1980s fantasy films, while composer Daniel Pemberton’s score connects it musically with Queen’s earlier work.
May’s involvement also reflects the franchise’s appeal across generations: he recalled his son’s interest in He-Man. The score brings together orchestral composition, disco influences and rock guitar.