Seasoned rock band Queen have signed a new record deal with label giants Universal.

This new move signifies the end of a 40-year relationship with the band’s former representatives, EMI, and the additional loss of Queen to its roster must have come as a blow following several other high-profile departures. Paul McCartney and Radiohead also parted ways with EMI following its takeover by Terra Firma back in '07.

Speaking to the BBC on behalf of the veteran rockers, guitarist Brian May said of the change:

“We are very excited, after all this time, to be embarking on a new phase of our career.”

Along with the new deal comes the promise of remastered and re-released editions of Queen’s first five albums, which will be available early next year to celebrate the band’s 40th anniversary. 

Watch Brian May discuss the possibility of Sacha Baron Cohen portraying Queen's legendary frontman, Freddie Mercury, in a new movie below: