How does the TFM20 stack up against other famous pressings?
Verdict: The TFM20 is the top choice for the "Old Guard" audiophile who wants the physical sensory experience (the booklet, the silver disc) combined with mastering quality that beats modern hi-res streaming.
Why is this version currently on top?
The original 1991 CD release was loud but somewhat flat. The 2011 Remaster (done by Bob Ludwig and the band) changed the game.
If you are listening to the album, pay special attention to these tracks which benefit most from the 2011 treatment:
Summary: Queen - Greatest Hits II (2011 Remastered) is not just a collection of B-sides; it is the soundtrack to the end of an era. It stands as a testament to Queen's ability to evolve, dominate, and ultimately leave the stage on their own terms. A definitive "Top" entry for any serious music lover.
The Magic of the 2011 Remasters: A Deep Dive into Queen’s Greatest Hits II
Released originally just weeks before Freddie Mercury’s passing in 1991, Greatest Hits II
stands as a definitive document of Queen’s most experimental and stadium-sized era. While the first volume captured the band’s rise to royalty, this second volume showcases their global dominance between 1981 and 1991, featuring some of the best-selling tracks in UK history. 2011 Remastered Edition
, handled by legendary engineer Bob Ludwig, breathed fresh life into these anthems for the band's 40th anniversary. Why the 2011 Remaster Matters For years, fans in the U.S. had to rely on the Classic Queen compilation, as Greatest Hits II queen greatest hits ii 2011remasteredtfm20 top
wasn't initially available as a standalone individual album stateside. The 2011 Hollywood Records release finally brought the official international tracklist to American soil with upgraded digital clarity. Refined Audio
: Ludwig's remastering focused on EQ and loudness tweaks to modernize the sound without losing the "pizazz" of the original analog recordings. Track Selection : From the David Bowie collaboration "Under Pressure" to the symphonic epic "Innuendo" , the album captures a band at their creative peak. Iconic Artwork
: The cover, featuring Freddie Mercury's hand-designed crest representing the band's zodiac signs, was "refreshed" and brought up to date for this edition. Essential Tracks & Highlights
The 2011 remaster ensures these "operatic anthems" hit with the force they deserve: Queen Greatest Hits II. Random Review | The Singing Whovian
The 2011 remaster of Queen's Greatest Hits II breathes new life into the band’s iconic late-era catalog, capturing their polished evolution into global stadium-rock royalty. Originally released in 1991—just a week before Freddie Mercury's passing—this compilation marks the final chapter of the band's original lineup. The Sound of Reinvention
The 2011 remaster, handled by legendary engineer Bob Ludwig, was part of the band's 40th-anniversary celebration. It focuses on the high-energy, cinematic anthems recorded between 1981 and 1991, featuring a cleaner, more dynamic range than previous CD versions.
Refined Audio: Tracks like "A Kind of Magic" and "The Miracle" benefit from early fades or specific edits that make the listening experience seamless.
The Show Must Go On: The album serves as a poignant tribute to Mercury, featuring his final masterworks like "Innuendo" and the defiant "The Show Must Go On". Tracklist Highlights
The album features 17 tracks that dominated international charts, even when some struggled to break the US Top 40 at the time. Song Title Notable Detail A Kind of Magic Written by Roger Taylor for the film Highlander Under Pressure Landmark collaboration with David Bowie Radio Ga Ga How does the TFM20 stack up against other famous pressings
A stadium anthem that became a staple of their Live Aid performance Innuendo
A complex, operatic piece from their final studio album with Mercury The Show Must Go On Recorded while Mercury was battling serious illness Cultural Impact
While the original 1991 release was famously replaced by Classic Queen in the US to capitalize on the Wayne's World "Bohemian Rhapsody" craze, the 2011 remaster finally saw a dedicated individual release in the United States. It remains the 10th best-selling album of all time in the UK.
The 2011 digital remaster is widely available on streaming platforms like Spotify and Deezer, and physical editions can often be found on secondary markets like Discogs.
The 2011 remaster of Queen’s Greatest Hits II, engineered by Bob Ludwig for the band's 40th anniversary, covers 17 tracks from the 1980s through 1991, featuring hits like "Under Pressure" and "The Show Must Go On". Widely praised for its rich sound, this edition is available on CD, 180-gram vinyl, and high-fidelity streaming platforms. For more details, visit Amazon.com. Greatest Hits II (2011 Remasters): CDs & Vinyl - Amazon.com
Queen Greatest Hits II (2011 Remastered) - A Timeless Collection of Rock Royalty
Released in 2011, Queen's Greatest Hits II is a testament to the band's enduring legacy. This remastered collection brings together some of the most iconic tracks from one of the most influential and beloved rock bands in history.
The Legacy of Queen
Formed in London in 1970, Queen has been a driving force in rock music for over five decades. The band's unique blend of theatricality, musicianship, and innovative production has inspired generations of artists and fans alike. With hits that span over 20 years, Queen's music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Verdict: The TFM20 is the top choice for
The Tracks
The Remastering Process
The 2011 remastering of Greatest Hits II brings new life to these classic tracks. Using the latest technology, the audio has been restored to its former glory, offering a crisp and clear listening experience.
The Impact
Queen's Greatest Hits II (2011 Remastered) serves as a reminder of the band's remarkable achievements. With over 300 million records sold worldwide, Queen remains one of the best-selling music artists of all time. This collection is a must-have for both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Conclusion
Queen's Greatest Hits II (2011 Remastered) is a timeless collection of rock royalty. With its impressive tracklist and crystal-clear sound, this album is a testament to Queen's enduring legacy. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just discovering their music, this remastered collection is sure to leave you singing along to the iconic tunes of one of the greatest rock bands in history.
The most fascinating aspect of Greatest Hits II is the songs that didn't make the cut elsewhere but became essential here.
To prove why this is the top version, listen to these tracks on the 2011 TFM20 pressing:
Because this version has become legendary, counterfeits exist. If you are hunting for "queen greatest hits ii 2011remasteredtfm20 top" on Discogs or eBay, look for these identifiers:
Pro Tip: If the listing says "Remastered 2011" but the price is under $20, it is likely the standard retail reissue. The "TFM20 top" variants now routinely sell for $75–$150 USD.