What makes Scandal by Queen notable?

'Scandal' reached number 20 on the UK Singles Chart and was notable for its commentary on media scrutiny, reflecting Queen's experiences with fame. The song also showcased the band's ability to adapt to contemporary sounds while retaining their classic rock identity, contributing to their ongoing legacy. Released on October 9, 1989, 'Scandal' came during a transitional phase for Queen as they navigated the music industry post-Freddie Mercury's health struggles. It followed their 1986 album 'A Kind of Magic' and reflected both their enduring appeal and the challenges faced in a changing musical landscape.

How many songs are on Scandal?

Scandal has 3 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

Released 37 years ago this October

Scandal

Queen · 1989

14 min · 3 tracks · hard rock

Energetic rock anthems blend with poignant balladry, showcasing Queen's signature theatrical flair and melodic prowess.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Scandal (12″ version) — The extended version amplifies the song's dramatic elements, blending hard-hitting rock instrumentation with an infectious chorus that embodies Queen's theatrical style.
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My Life Has Been Saved — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics and lush harmonies, marking a more vulnerable side of Queen that resonates deeply with listeners.
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Scandal (7″ version) — The shorter edit retains the core essence of the longer version while making it accessible, encapsulating the band’s knack for crafting catchy hooks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases Queen's blend of rock and balladry but lacks strong cohesion as a standalone release.

What we noticed

The 12″ version of 'Scandal' features an extended instrumental section that emphasizes the guitar work and builds tension before the chorus.
Both versions of 'Scandal' maintain a consistent tempo but vary in arrangement, with the 7″ version being more concise and radio-friendly.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — 'Scandal' is a notable single but does not fit into major categories like breakthrough or critical peak.
Themes: celebrity culture critique· theatrical excess· personal turmoil· late-80s reinvention
Career context: Released on October 9, 1989, 'Scandal' came during a transitional phase for Queen as they navigated the music industry post-Freddie Mercury's health struggles. It followed their 1986 album 'A Kind of Magic' and reflected both their enduring appeal and the challenges faced in a changing musical landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: David Bowie· Electric Light Orchestra· The Darkness