GP readers weigh in.

Thanks for the gracious nod to Brian May, one of the finest and most gentlemanly guitarists to grace rock and roll for perhaps ever [May 2021]. The interview was entertaining and informative. I had no idea Queen had toured with Mott the Hoople — of all bands! But what I found most enlightening was the article on “10 Queen Songs You Never Hear on the Radio — But Should.” I would add “Long Away,” from

A Day at the Races. Brian not only wrote it but sings it too. It’s catchy and sweet and should have been a hit. Brian himself said it’s one of the songs he’d like to be remembered for, and for good reason. It’s a hidden gem! — S T E P H E N S P E C K L E R

I have been reading stories about Brian May in your magazine and others for 30 years, and almost every time a mention is given about some guy in Texas that he saw doing finger tapping. No credit has ever been given to the “guy.” I am almost certain the person May is referring to is a guitar slinger in the San Antonio/Austin area named Van Wilks. He has been doing his feats of double-finger tapping since the early ’70s. His guitar skills are off the chart and his songwriting is way up there too. He’s good friends with everyone from Billy Gibbons to Eric Johnson and known in this area to be one of the best. Just wanted to give a shout out and credit where credit is due. Thanks and keep up the good work. —STEVE MULLINS

Was it just a coincidence that Brian was on the cover of your May issue? — B O B F E L I C I A