The Platters Greatest Pretender May 2026

: While many have covered it, Freddie Mercury’s 1987 version is the most famous, reaching #4 on the UK charts. Interestingly, Sam Cooke’s cover is believed to have inspired Chrissie Hynde to name her band The Pretenders .

: Ram reportedly drafted the lyrics in a washroom at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas. The Platters Greatest Pretender

: The song's success made The Platters the first Black group to reach #1 on the national pop charts. : While many have covered it, Freddie Mercury’s

The song was written in just by the group’s manager and producer, Buck Ram. : While many have covered it