Freddie Mercury, universally recognised as one of the greatest performers in the history of rock music, lived up to his promise that he was going to become "a legend". His action-packed life took in being an art student, triumphs as the lead vocalist and a creative voice behind Queen, and a spell as a successful solo singer and songwriter in the 1980s. The legend of Freddie Mercury began on the East African island of Zanzibar, where Farrokh Bulsara was born on September 5, 1946. After moving to England, he studied graphic design at Ealing College of Art before joining forces with Brian May and Roger Taylor. Freddie persuaded his fellow band members to change their name from Smile to Queen, with John Deacon completing the line-up in 1971. Freddie Mercury left a legacy of iconic songs and performances that will never lose their stature as landmarks for generations to come.