‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ Gets a Zulu Soul: Ndlovu Youth Choir’s Historic Queen Cover Captures Global Attention

The timeless grandeur of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” has been given a groundbreaking new voice, resonating with the rich cultural tapestry of South Africa. The internationally acclaimed Ndlovu Youth Choir, hailing from the Limpopo province, has achieved a historic first by releasing an officially approved isiZulu translation of the iconic 1975 rock anthem. This momentous achievement marks the first time the legendary song has ever been translated for commercial release, a testament to the choir’s artistry and a significant milestone for African music on the global stage. The news is quickly becoming a trending topic in the music world.

The Ndlovu Youth Choir: A Story of Hope and Harmony

The Ndlovu Youth Choir’s journey began in 2009 as a community initiative within the Ndlovu Care Group, founded by Dutch doctor Hugo Tempelman in Elandsdoorn, Limpopo, with a mission of providing innovative healthcare, childcare, education, and community development to vulnerable populations. Under the artistic direction and conducting of Ralf Schmitt, the choir evolved from an after-school program into a professional ensemble celebrated for its uplifting performances and infectious energy. Their international breakthrough came with their participation in “America’s Got Talent” in 2019, where they became finalists, showcasing their talent and demonstrating the profound impact of music on community development and individual empowerment. The choir members, typically aged between 14 and 24, are proficient in singing across all 11 official South African languages, a diversity that mirrors the nation’s rich heritage and allows them to connect with a broad audience.

Securing the Blessing: A Yearning for Global Recognition

The ambitious project to translate and record “Bohemian Rhapsody” in isiZulu was an endeavor that took nearly two years, marked by extensive global collaboration and careful negotiation to secure the necessary permissions. Ralf Schmitt, the choir’s artistic director, described the process of obtaining approval from Queen’s surviving members, Brian May and Roger Taylor, as a “long and patient journey”. Crucially, the Mercury Phoenix Trust, an organization founded by Brian May and Roger Taylor in memory of Freddie Mercury to combat HIV/AIDS, also granted its blessing. This approval signifies not only a monumental artistic feat but also aligns with the Trust’s mission of fostering global connection and awareness through music. “We realized that we’d be the first translation that’s been commercially released,” Schmitt stated, expressing the choir’s profound honor in undertaking this landmark project. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment, showcasing a growing appreciation for African artistic interpretations of global music phenomena.

Crafting an African Rhapsody: Translation and Musical Fusion

Adapting the complex and lengthy lyrics of “Bohemian Rhapsody” into isiZulu presented significant creative challenges, particularly in finding Zulu words that matched the original rhythm and meaning. Choir members, including Lungelo Masango, who was unfamiliar with the song, and Sandile Majola, found the process deeply meaningful as they meticulously worked on the translation. They aimed to preserve the original song’s emotion and narrative, carefully selecting words to fit the musical structure. Some lyrical passages, notably the operatic interjections like “Galileo, Galileo!”, were thoughtfully retained in English to maintain their distinctive impact. The musical arrangement itself is a vibrant fusion, skillfully weaving in traditional African styles such as isicathamiya and the Congolese swing of kwassa kwassa. These elements are complemented by expanded call-and-response sections deeply rooted in African performance traditions. This reimagining was conceptually driven by the idea of exploring what the song might have sounded like if Freddie Mercury’s musical journey had remained connected to the African continent, his place of birth in Zanzibar.

A Heritage Celebrated: Impact and Reception

The release of the isiZulu “Bohemian Rhapsody” has been met with widespread acclaim, with descriptions ranging from “pure magic” to an “awe-inspiring” and “electrifying” rendition that evokes goosebumps. The song’s release on August 29, 2025, coincided with the 50th anniversary of the original track, further amplifying its cultural resonance and making it a prominent piece of music news. The accompanying music video, featuring the choir in vibrant traditional attire, visually celebrates this unique African interpretation of the rock anthem, further cementing its cultural significance. This momentous project also serves as a prelude to the Ndlovu Youth Choir’s 2025 Heritage Tour, which aims to celebrate South African music, dance, and unity across the nation, with a particular focus on reaching small towns and underserved communities. The fusion of Queen’s iconic rock opera with Zulu heritage is not only a musical triumph but also a powerful statement about cultural exchange and the universality of music, making this release a trending topic in the global music landscape.

Conclusion

The Ndlovu Youth Choir’s isiZulu rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody” stands as more than just a musical cover; it is a landmark cultural event that embodies artistic innovation and deep respect for both Queen’s enduring legacy and South Africa’s rich heritage. By securing the unprecedented approval of Queen’s surviving members and the Mercury Phoenix Trust, the choir has not only achieved a historic first but has also forged a significant pathway for deeper musical collaboration and cultural dialogue on a global scale. This remarkable release powerfully demonstrates that music transcends borders and languages, possessing the unique ability to unite diverse communities through shared artistic expression, solidifying its status as a trending topic and a significant moment in contemporary music.