Brian May Net Worth 2025: Queen Royalties, Rock Stardom & Astrophysics Legacy

Brian May’s net worth in 2025 isn’t just the result of decades of rock royalty it’s the reward of a lifetime spent mastering music, exploring the cosmos, and standing up for causes he believes in. As the legendary guitarist of Queen, a solo artist, astrophysicist, and animal rights advocate, May is living proof that rockstars can wear lab coats too.

Let’s explore how Sir Brian May built his fortune, one riff—and research paper—at a time.

What is Brian May’s net worth in 2025?

Brian May’s net worth is estimated to be $260 million in 2025.

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This impressive figure comes from a career that spans over five decades in music, publishing, touring, and science. As one of the principal songwriters in Queen and a successful solo artist, May has long been at the top of music royalty charts—literally and financially.

What does Brian May do for a living?

Brian May is a guitarist, composer, producer, astrophysicist, author, and animal rights activist.

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Best known as the lead guitarist of Queen, May co-wrote some of the band’s most iconic anthems, including “We Will Rock You,” “I Want It All,” and “Who Wants to Live Forever.” His signature guitar, the “Red Special,” hand-built with his father, is almost as famous as the man himself.

Beyond music, he earned a Ph.D. in Astrophysics from Imperial College London in 2007 and has published multiple books on stereoscopy and space science. He also co-founded Asteroid Day, a global awareness movement focused on planetary defense.

Brian May’s earnings explained — how does he make money?

Brian May earns income through Queen royalties, concert tours, solo projects, book sales, and public appearances.

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Queen Royalties & Touring

Queen has sold an estimated 170–300 million records worldwide, and May’s songwriting royalties ensure a continuous stream of income. Even decades after Freddie Mercury’s passing, the band’s catalog remains one of the most lucrative in music history.

Thanks to the success of the “Bohemian Rhapsody” biopic (2018), Queen’s resurgence reached a new generation. This led to sold-out tours with Adam Lambert under the “Queen + Adam Lambert” banner, including a Las Vegas residency and global stadium tours into the 2020s.

In 2025, Queen remains active on the road, and May continues to earn millions annually from performance fees and licensing deals.

Solo Career & Side Projects

May has released solo albums like “Back to the Light” and “Another World,” as well as special collaborations with Van Halen, Black Sabbath, and others. His solo tours have also contributed to his wealth, and he maintains a cult following beyond Queen.

Publishing & Scientific Work

May’s books—ranging from astrophysics to stereoscopic photography—are widely respected in scientific circles and among hobbyists. Titles like “Bang! The Complete History of the Universe” (co-authored with Sir Patrick Moore and Chris Lintott) continue to sell globally.

As a science communicator, May also earns from lecture appearances, academic collaborations, and television documentaries.