Freddie Mercury takes the stage from the year 1985

SOURCE: CARL LENDER VIA WIKICOMMONS

Caption: Freddy Mercury performing in New Haven, CT in 1978

Freddie Mercury returned to fans during the 2012 London Olympics closing ceremony in a celebration of rock legends Sunday night. Mercury's presence commanded the stage once again through a holographic airing of famous footage from his 1985 Live Aid performance. Through pursed lips and audience interaction, the late Queen frontman’s inclusion showcased how London’s Olympics are about honoring greatness.

In a lineup that included tributes, reunions and icons, Freddie Mercury was not the only one brought back from the past. Just as the opening ceremony had represented Great Britain's history, Sunday night's closing ceremony was about remembering icons of the past. In addition to Mercury's performance of "Deyo," he was joined by original Queen guitarist Brian May and pop star Jessie J who helped pay tribute, according to Reuters. Mercury's voice also rung throughout the stadium as he sang the opening lines of "Bohemium Rhapsody,” which was blended with The Beatle’s “Imagine” during a segment dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. Even without their physical presence, legends such as Mercury and Lennon can still stun audiences.

With Freddie Mercury, John Lennon, The Who and more, London’s closing ceremony took the time to celebrate the performances of the 2012 Olympic athletes, but also to remember the influential music history of Great Britain. With the use of innovative technology, the spectators of the closing ceremony were reminded why Freddie Mercury, who died of bronchopneumonia caused by AIDS in 1991, deserves the term “icon”.