Meaning: "Mantovani was a great influence on me" is a quote by Brian May, the legendary musician and guitarist of the iconic rock band Queen. In this quote, May expresses his admiration and respect for the influential conductor and composer Mantovani, acknowledging the impact that Mantovani had on his own musical journey.

Mantovani, whose full name was Annunzio Paolo Mantovani, was an Italian-born conductor and composer who became renowned for his lush, orchestral arrangements and his distinctive "cascading strings" sound. He achieved great success and popularity during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, with his recordings and live performances. Mantovani's music often featured sweeping melodies, rich harmonies, and a romantic, dreamy quality that resonated with audiences around the world.

Brian May's acknowledgment of Mantovani's influence highlights the cross-genre impact of the conductor's work. While May is best known for his groundbreaking contributions to rock music, including his innovative guitar playing and songwriting with Queen, his appreciation for Mantovani reveals the diverse sources that have shaped his musical sensibilities.

It is worth noting that Mantovani's music, with its emphasis on grand orchestral arrangements and emotive melodies, contrasts sharply with the high-energy, guitar-driven sound for which Queen is famous. However, this contrast serves as a testament to the broad range of influences that have informed May's musical style and creativity. By recognizing Mantovani as a great influence, May demonstrates an openness to embracing diverse musical inspirations and incorporating them into his own artistic expression.

Moreover, Mantovani's influence on May may also be attributed to the emotional depth and sonic richness that both artists strive to achieve in their respective musical endeavors. While their musical approaches may differ in terms of instrumentation and genre, the underlying pursuit of creating evocative, immersive soundscapes connects them on a fundamental level.

In the broader context of music history, Mantovani's impact extends beyond his own era, influencing subsequent generations of musicians and composers. His distinctive arrangements and the lush, romantic sound that characterized his music have left an indelible mark on the world of popular and orchestral music.

Furthermore, Mantovani's influence on May serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of musical traditions and the enduring power of artistic inspiration. Across genres and generations, musicians like Mantovani continue to shape the creative landscape, inspiring and influencing artists in ways that transcend stylistic boundaries.

In conclusion, Brian May's acknowledgment of Mantovani as a great influence underscores the far-reaching impact of the Italian conductor and composer's musical legacy. Through his lush orchestrations and emotive compositions, Mantovani has left an enduring imprint on artists across genres, including the legendary guitarist of Queen. May's recognition of Mantovani's influence serves as a testament to the timeless resonance of musical artistry and the profound connections that exist between artists, regardless of their stylistic differences.