Queen Robbie

Music

16:30 17 March 2005

Robbie Williams came agonisingly close to becoming the new Queen singer.

The pop heartthrob was in advanced talks with band members guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor to join the veteran rockers on their reunion tour this year.

However, Robbie - who would have replaced the late Freddie Mercury - lost out on the coveted position to former Free frontman Paul Rodgers, 55.

May, 57, said: "We got close with Robbie. We thought, 'Wouldn't it be fun if we did something.' It came close."

Taylor insists at one stage all parties involved were really keen on having the 'Angels' singer join after he famously re-recorded classic Queen hit 'We Are The Champions' with the two legendary musicians for 2001 film 'A Knight's Tale'.

But the drummer believed it didn't happen because of Robbie's superstar status.

He explained: "He was keen on the idea and then I think we all drew back a little, thought about it and then decided, 'Maybe not', you know."

Earlier this year, Robbie admitted he would have loved to have taken over for Mercury - who tragically died of Aids in 1991.

He said at the time: "I'd have killed for a chance to sing with those guys backing me. How cool would that have been?"

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