Originally released in 1977, Queen’s ‘We Are The Champions’ has acted as a victory anthem worldwide for over 40 years. Now the song is taking on a new lease of life with a re-release by Queen & Adam Lambert.
Brian May and Roger Taylor recorded the new version with Lambert over a virtual jam session titling the track ‘You Are The Champions’ as a tribute to frontline health care workers amid the coronavirus pandemic.
May and Taylor have been performing pop-up concerts from their respective homes, and during a session with Lambert, the latter changed the lyrics mid-song. Fans then pushed for the song to be released properly, and now it has been.
“It seems to me we should dedicate this one to all the front-line soldiers fighting for Humanity against the insurgent coronavirus,” said Brian May.
“Just like our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents who fought for us in two world wars, those brave warriors in the front line are our new CHAMPIONS.”
Taylor added; “As a father with a daughter in the front line, I am ultra-aware of the vital work they are doing daily to save us and our society, their bravery and sacrifice must not be prejudiced by anything less than a one hundred per cent effort by our governments to protect them. They are precious to us all and they are truly our champions.”
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‘You Are The Champions’ also features bassist Neil Fairclough, and all proceeds from the sale of the track are going to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization (WHO), powered by the United Nations Foundation.
The fund was set up to help provide resources for healthcare workers, as well as supporting the rapid development of a vaccine.
“It is with the deepest gratitude to all those on the frontline all over the world that we dedicate our performance. Thank you for keeping us safe, we are in awe of your bravery and strength,” said Lambert.
The single is now available to download and across all streaming services.
