Queen's Brian May joins William Shatner's upcoming heavy metal album

9 September 2026, 13:27

William Shatner is going metal and is getting some high profile help.

William Shatner made his bow as a singer (of sorts) with 1968's otherworldly The Transformed Man album, but it's really been in the last 20 years that he's leapt into music.

2004's Has Been was rightly critically acclaimed, and since then he's released records as diverse as 2008's symphonic biblical LP Exodus: An Oratorio in Three Parts and the space-themed concept album Seeking Major Tom in 2011.

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But the Star Trek legend – now 95 years old – recently announced his first foray into heavy metal, and he's enlisted one of the greatest hard rock guitarists of all time to lend a hand. Queen legend Brian May.

"Full details of their collaboration have yet to be released, but of course May will be contributing his instantly distinctive guitar sound, and he will also be mixing the track," confirmed Shatner's label Cleopatra Records.

"With additional guest appearances still under wraps, the album is quickly emerging as a major crossover moment, a part metal event record, part artistic left turn, all created around a cast that spans multiple generations of hard rock and metal excellence."

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The label notes that both Shatner and May have had asteroids named after them, with the musical collision of Asteroid 52665 Brianmay and Asteroid 31556 Shatner sure to be worth listening to.

Shatner is on the record as being a massive Queen fan, revealing five years ago that they're his favourite band.

"I did a recording of 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and I had to listen to Freddie Mercury and Queen a lot to hear how it was done – this was years after they were gone," Shatner said.

"Freddie had such a superb voice. If you’re asking me who is my favourite singer I’d say Freddie Mercury. Who is my favourite band? Queen. Favourite song? 'Bohemian Rhapsody'."

Bohemian Rhapsody

Other stars already announced for the upcoming Shatner album include Rob Halford of Judas Priest, John Moyer of Disturbed, and Slayer and Misfits drummer Dave Lombardo.

It is produced by Adam Hamilton and Brian Perera, with additional production from Derek Hughes, Marcus Nand and Jürgen Engler of Die Krupps.

Shatner will play Riotfest in Chicago on September 20 with his band The *uckers.

Announcing the album earlier this year, Shatner said: "Metal has always been a place where imagination gets loud.

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"This album is a gathering of forces – each artist bringing their fire, their precision, their chaos. I chose them because they have something to say, and because metal demands honesty."

He added: "I've spent a lifetime exploring in both reality and fiction. Now I am stepping out into the unknown once again with my new project in heavy metal.

"I am covering Black Sabbath, Judas Priest and Iron Maiden as well as a number of new songs written by my team. The whole project is destined for this year. I hope you will join me in the exploration."