Queen’s early bassist Barry Mitchell dies at 76

Barry Mitchell, a musician who played bass for the legendary rock band Queen in their formative year before their international fame, has died. His passing was confirmed on August 21, 2026, by Greg Brooks, the band's official archivist. Mitchell served as Queen's second bassist for approximately six months, between August 1970 and January 1971.

Brooks shared the news in a post on the band's Facebook page, writing, "Terribly sad news just received that early Queen bass player, Barry Mitchell, has passed away. His anecdotes at the convention were fascinating and offered rare insight. He will be greatly missed." One friend, Gary Taylor, noted Mitchell passed away on August 17, 2026. He is survived by two daughters.

Mitchell was recruited to Queen after the group's initial bassist, Mike Grose, departed. He played in 13 concerts with the band, primarily in England, during a period when the lineup also included singer Freddie Mercury, guitarist Brian May, and drummer Roger Taylor. His tenure ended in January 1971, followed by a brief stint from bassist Doug Bogie before John Deacon joined as the band's permanent member in February 1971.

In interviews reflecting on his time with the...