Queen’s legendary anthem, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” has cemented its place in music history, selling over six million copies worldwide and ranking as the UK’s third best-selling single. Its influence has only grown over time, earning a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004. The song experienced a resurgence in 2018 with the release of the Freddie Mercury biopic, rekindling global admiration and introducing a new generation to its brilliance. Recognized by Forbes as the most-streamed song from the 20th century, it has also claimed the title of the most-streamed Classic Rock song ever, proving its timeless appeal.
Taking on such an iconic masterpiece is no easy feat, but UC Berkeley’s all-male a cappella group delivered a jaw-dropping rendition that took the internet by storm. With no instruments, just raw vocal talent, the group reimagined Queen’s classic, captivating audiences with their harmonious precision and theatrical energy. Berkeley’s vibrant a cappella scene is home to standout groups like DeCadence—known for their bold performances and signature gold capes—and Drawn to Scale, a group that seamlessly blends musical diversity with raw talent. These student performances aren’t just entertainment; they offer a much-needed creative escape from academic stress while showcasing the incredible artistry brewing on campus.
From the very first note, the Berkeley octet had the audience hooked. Their performance was a spectacle of humor, passion, and vocal mastery, culminating in an electrifying rock section where the singers transformed into air-guitar-shredding rock stars. The internet couldn’t get enough—their viral rendition has amassed over 4.7 million YouTube views, proving once again that Queen’s music transcends generations. With his love of theatrical, high-energy performances, Freddie Mercury himself would have been proud to see his magnum opus reimagined in such a fresh and dynamic way. Missed this must-watch moment? Don’t worry—you can catch their viral performance below!
