Brian May's poignant message as he performs hours after death of close friend

15 October 2023 , 16:49

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Brian May thanks fans for support after performing hours after death of close friend (Image: Getty Images)

Heartbroken Brian May thanked his fans for their unwavering support after performing a few hours after the death of his close friend.

Queen and Adam Lambert performed their first of two sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden in New York City this weekend. The 76-year-old musician put on a brave face as he put his all into the show despite receiving devastating news just a few hours before.

He shared a snap of himself looking teary-eyed while waving at the crowd as he thanked fans and said they were all a 'wounded family tonight'. He wrote: "Somehow this picture says it all …. Thanks New York City folk. Thanks Madison Square Garden. Thanks @sarah_rugg for this pic.

Brian May thanked fans for their support (Getty Images)

"And …. the rest is beyond my understanding at this point in the evening. Goodnight all - and thanks for all the kind messages - we are a wounded family tonight. But the only way is onwards … with love - Bri."

Fans rushed to the comment section to pay their condolences, with one fan writing: "I am so sorry that you lost your good friend. I can just imagine brian, all the fun you had with him driving you all around. If only to have been a passenger with you one time." Another said: "Goodnight, Brian. Sending healing thoughts to help mend your wounds. Such a deep loss for all of you."

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Before the show, he took to social media to announce his driver and bodyguard of over three decades, Phil Webb, suddenly died from a heart attack. His close friend died earlier this week.

"This is one of the saddest days of my life. Last night we lost Phil Webb to a heart attack," he wrote under photos of Phil. "Phil, my dedicated driver for over 30 years was my family’s dearest friend and protector and the kindest and most decent man I have ever had the pleasure to meet.”

"We are all devastated and join with Phil’s wife and son in grieving for the last man on Earth to deserve this much too early passing away. Bless you dear Phil - we all love you. We’re proud of the life you led, and forever grateful for everything you gave us - more than any words could ever describe. Bri."

Phil's sudden death comes only a month after Sir Brian paid tribute to Freddie Mercury on what would have been his 77th birthday.

Zara Woodcock