Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody translated into Zulu for the first time
The Ndlovu Youth Choir, hailing from South Africa’s Limpopo province, achieved international recognition during their stint on “America’s Got Talent” in 2019. Now, they are making a bold comeback with a unique rendition of Queen’s iconic hit, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” reimagined in Zulu. The Ndlovu Youth Choir had the honor of being the first to receive authorization from Queen to translate and record the song.
Ralf Schmitt, the choir’s artistic director, shared insights into this groundbreaking project. He mentioned that Queen’s approval to translate the timeless classic was a significant milestone for the choir. As they embarked on this venture, they aimed to pay homage to the original piece while infusing their cultural flair into the song. This initiative coincided with the 50th anniversary of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” making it a fitting tribute to the band’s legendary frontman, Freddie Mercury, who hailed from Africa.
The translation process was conducted meticulously by choir member Sandile Majola to maintain the essence of the original lyrics. Bringing the song to life in Zulu brought a new perspective and emotional depth to the choir members. Lead singer Lungelo Masango acknowledged the challenges of adapting the lengthy Zulu words to convey the song’s profound message effectively. Despite these hurdles, the collaborative effort resulted in a powerful rendition that retained the song’s core themes.
The adaptation of “Bohemian Rhapsody” into Zulu showcased the fusion of various African musical styles, reflecting the rich diversity of the continent’s music scene. The incorporation of township genres like isicathamiya and the Congolese kwassa kwassa added a unique flavor to the song. Moreover, the call-and-response elements in the cover paid homage to the African musical tradition, encapsulating the choir’s roots in each note.
The accompanying music video, available on YouTube, features the Ndlovu Youth Choir adorned in vibrant traditional attire, further celebrating their heritage and identity. The visual representation complements the emotive vocals, creating a captivating and immersive experience for listeners. The choir’s rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody” in Zulu breathes new life into this timeless classic, bridging cultures and showcasing the universal language of music.
In conclusion, the Ndlovu Youth Choir’s innovative interpretation of “Bohemian Rhapsody” serves as a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and foster cultural exchange. By infusing their distinctive Zulu flavor into this beloved classic, the choir has created a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, captivating audiences worldwide. This transformative rendition stands as a tribute to Freddie Mercury’s African roots and a celebration of musical artistry that knows no limits.