Smile was a ‘semi-pro outfit’ that was built from the ruins of the pre-Queen band “1984.” Guitarist Brian May left “1984” in 1968 and was soon followed by singer Tim Staffell. Staffell and May decided they wanted to continue working together in a band; all they needed was a drummer. May posted a note on the Student Union notice board at Imperial College in London. The note stated they were looking for a “Ginger Baker/Mitch Mitchell style drummer". Roger Taylor responded. Smile went on to become a popular live band locally, playing support gigs for Free, Pink Floyd, Jimi Hendrix, and Yes. Smile signed a recording contract with Mercury Records, and went on to record six tracks over the course of two sets of studio sessions. However, Staffell soon left Smile to pursue dreams of greater success with the band Humpy Bong, leaving May and Taylor to bring on Freddie Mercury (then named Fred Bulsara) as their new lead vocalist. They changed the group’s name to Queen, signifying a fresh new start.