Queen’s unforgettable anthem “Bohemian Rhapsody” has long held its iconic status in music history, with more than six million copies sold worldwide and a ranking as the UK’s third best-selling single. Its legacy only continues to rise. The song earned a spot in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004 and enjoyed a massive revival in 2018 thanks to the Freddie Mercury biopic, which reintroduced its genius to a new generation. Recognized by Forbes as the most-streamed track from the 20th century, it stands as the most-streamed Classic Rock song to date—proof that its appeal is as strong as ever.

Taking on a masterpiece of this scale is a bold move, but UC Berkeley’s all-male a cappella group stepped up with a performance that stunned the internet. With nothing but their voices, they reimagined Queen’s classic with seamless harmonies and infectious energy. Berkeley’s lively a cappella culture is home to groups like DeCadence—famous for their daring performances and gleaming gold capes—and Drawn to Scale, a group known for fusing musical variety with pure vocal talent. These student showcases aren’t just campus entertainment; they offer a refreshing creative outlet from academic pressure and highlight the impressive artistry thriving at Berkeley.
From the moment the first note rang out, the Berkeley octet had the crowd completely drawn in. Their performance blended humor, emotion, and remarkable vocal skill, building up to a powerful rock section where the singers dove into full air-guitar mode. Viewers online were just as captivated—their rendition has now surpassed 4.8 million YouTube views, once again reaffirming that Queen’s music crosses generations with ease.
With its blend of drama, precision, and passion, this reimagined version feels like a tribute Freddie Mercury himself would have applauded. For anyone who hasn’t yet witnessed this standout moment, the viral performance is just a click away.
