former queen bassist
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Former Queen bassist Barry Mitchell dies at 80, le…

ByJustpaste.in

The Queen family is mourning the loss of Barry Mitchell, an early bassist who played an important role during the legendary rock band’s formative years. Mitchell died on August 17, 2026, according to reports, prompting tributes from fans and people connected to Queen. (The Sun⁠)

Although Mitchell was not part of Queen’s classic lineup, his contribution came during a crucial period when the band was still finding its sound. He joined Queen in 1970 after original bassist Mike Grose left. The official Queen live archive confirms that Mitchell played the next 11 shows during the band’s earliest performing days. (Queen Online⁠)

At the time, Queen consisted of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and Mitchell on bass. The group had not yet become the worldwide rock phenomenon fans know today. John Deacon would join later in 1971 and complete the classic lineup.

Mitchell’s time with Queen was brief. He remained with the band for around six months before leaving in early 1971. Reports say he played approximately 13 performances, mostly in the United Kingdom. (The Sun⁠)

Even though his time in the group was short, Mitchell was present while some of Queen’s earliest songs were being developed. His period with the band included work around tracks such as “Liar,” “Son and Daughter” and “Keep Yourself Alive,” giving him a unique connection to the band’s beginnings. (Queen Vault⁠)

Queen’s official archivist Greg Brooks confirmed the sad news and remembered Mitchell warmly. He described the former bassist’s stories about Queen’s early years as fascinating and said he would be greatly missed. (Edinburgh Live⁠)

For longtime Queen fans, Mitchell represented a piece of the band’s history that is often overlooked. Before Queen filled stadiums and produced some of rock’s most famous albums, the group was a young band playing small venues and experimenting with its musical identity.

Mitchell later returned to music after spending some time away from the industry. He also remained connected with the Queen fan community, attending conventions and sharing memories from his time alongside Mercury, May and Taylor. (The Sun⁠)

His death marks another poignant moment for fans looking back at Queen’s remarkable journey. While Barry Mitchell may not have been part of the lineup that eventually conquered the world, he was there when the story was only beginning.

His contribution lasted just months, but his place in Queen’s history will remain part of the band’s extraordinary early chapter.

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