Queen’s iconic anthem, Bohemian Rhapsody, has secured 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 with time, earning a spot in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004. The song saw a major resurgence in 2018 following the release of the Freddie Mercury biopic, reigniting global admiration and introducing new audiences to its brilliance. Recognized by Forbes as the most-streamed song of the 20th century, it has also claimed the title of the most-streamed Classic Rock song ever, proving its lasting impact.
Covering such a legendary masterpiece is no small task, but UC Berkeley’s all-male a cappella group took on the challenge—and delivered a show-stopping performance that went viral. With nothing but their voices, the group reimagined Queen’s classic, mesmerizing audiences with flawless harmonies and theatrical energy.
Berkeley’s a cappella scene is known for standout groups like DeCadence—famous for their bold performances and signature gold capes—and Drawn to Scale, a group that blends musical diversity with raw talent. These student performances go beyond entertainment, offering a creative escape from academic pressures while showcasing the artistic brilliance on campus.
From the opening note, the Berkeley octet had the audience captivated. Their rendition was a blend of humor, passion, and vocal mastery, culminating in a high-energy rock section where the singers transformed into air-guitar-shredding rock stars. The internet couldn’t get enough—their viral performance has racked up over 4.7 million YouTube views, proving that Queen’s music continues to inspire across generations. With his love for theatrical, electrifying performances, Freddie Mercury himself would have been proud to see his magnum opus reimagined with such energy and originality. Missed this unforgettable moment? Don’t worry—you can watch their viral performance below!
