Queen to Release Lost 1974 Christmas Song “Not For Sale (Polar Bear)” After Five Decades

An unheard Queen Christmas track from 1974 resurfaces, promising festive cheer with a vintage twist in the Queen II reissue.

If you're a Queen fan, brace yourself for a festive treat that’s been tucked away for almost fifty years. The legendary rock band is about to unveil a lost Christmas song titled “Not For Sale (Polar Bear),” recorded way back in 1974 during sessions for their iconic Queen II album—but it never made the final cut. Imagine discovering a hidden gem from your favorite band, unheard by the world until now!

A Christmas Song That Time Forgot

It’s the kind of story that makes you feel like a musical archaeologist—digging through dusty vaults to unearth something magical. Guitarist Brian May recently revealed that this track had been lying dormant in the archives, untouched until today, when it received its very first radio play on Planet Rock (December 22). Fans can also expect “Not For Sale (Polar Bear)” to be part of the Queen II album’s reissue set to drop in 2026.

Brian explains, “People might possibly have heard a bootleg version of ‘Not For Sale (Polar Bear)’ by Smile, it’s a song that goes back a very long way, but to my knowledge no one has ever heard this version.” That’s right—this isn’t just a forgotten demo; it’s an authentic slice of Queen history that has never been heard in this form.

He added, “It’s a work in progress and will appear on the forthcoming rebuild of the Queen II album – coming next year – but I’m sneaking this into my Planet Rock special because I’m fascinated to know what people think about it. I hope people have a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year!”

For those eager for a Queen classic while we wait for the reissue, here’s a reminder of the band’s early magic with the official video for “Seven Seas Of Rhye”:

More Brian May Goodies: A Gift to Tony Iommi

While the Christmas track is a sparkling highlight, May has also been spreading the love elsewhere. Earlier this month, he gifted Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi a left-handed replica of his famous Red Special guitar, an instrument as legendary as the man himself.

The original Red Special, built in the early 1960s by Brian and his father Harold, was crafted from unconventional materials—mahogany salvaged from an old fireplace mantle and an oak fingerboard adorned with mother-of-pearl buttons. This homegrown guitar became Brian May’s stage companion through the ‘70s and ‘80s, shaping the unmistakable Queen sound.

It’s touching to see such iconic musicians honoring each other with tokens that carry decades of rock history.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Queen?

Amid these exciting revelations, there’s also a bittersweet tone surrounding Queen’s future. Brian May’s wife, Anita Dobson, hinted that the band, now working with Adam Lambert, is unlikely to embark on large-scale tours anymore. Instead, they might stick to “little bits and bobs,” savoring smaller, more intimate performances.

This cautious approach comes after May’s health scare last year when he suffered a minor stroke that temporarily left him without control over one arm—a “little scary” moment that he thankfully overcame.

These personal and professional updates paint a picture of a band evolving with time yet still deeply connected to their roots and fans.

What do you think about Queen’s lost Christmas song finally seeing the light of day? Are you excited for the Queen II reissue? Share your thoughts!

FAQ

• What is “Not For Sale (Polar Bear)”?
  It’s a previously unreleased Queen Christmas song recorded in 1974, rediscovered and set for release with the Queen II reissue.
• When will the Queen II reissue come out?
  The reissue is scheduled for release in 2026 and will include the newly unveiled track.
• Has anyone heard “Not For Sale (Polar Bear)” before?
  Only a bootleg version by the band Smile exists, but Brian May confirms that Queen’s original version has never been publicly heard.
• What is the Red Special guitar?
  Brian May’s iconic guitar, handmade with his father from unique materials, that became crucial to Queen’s signature sound.
• Is Queen still touring?
  Queen, with Adam Lambert, will likely focus on smaller shows or events rather than full-scale tours, especially following Brian May’s health challenges.

For fans who want to celebrate Queen’s timeless legacy in their own space, why not shop your favorite album cover poster at our store? It’s a stylish way to keep the spirit of Queen alive every day.

Shop your favorite Queen album cover poster here.