Draped in stunning gold and black ensembles inspired by Pan-African artistry, the Ndlovu Youth Choir has once again taken the world by storm with their latest release — a powerful reinterpretation of “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Known for bringing their infectious Afropop sound to international audiences during their 2019 run on America’s Got Talent, the South African ensemble has now returned to their roots, creating a first-of-its-kind version of the Queen classic performed entirely in Zulu. Remarkably, it’s the first-ever officially authorized translation of the iconic song.
The choir explained that their vision was to imagine how “Bohemian Rhapsody” might have sounded if Freddie Mercury — born in Zanzibar — had remained on African soil. The result is nothing short of extraordinary. With elements of isicathamiya (a traditional South African a cappella style), vibrant kwassa kwassa dance rhythms, and rich harmonies, the Ndlovu Youth Choir reimagines Queen’s masterpiece through a deeply African lens. Within just a month, the video amassed nearly 10 million views, with fans praising it as “the most captivating version ever made.”
It’s hard to picture “Bohemian Rhapsody” in any other form — the song is practically sacred to music lovers worldwide. Yet, the Ndlovu Youth Choir manages to reinvent it without losing its essence. Their rendition is both a heartfelt tribute to Freddie Mercury’s African heritage and a celebration of his creative spirit — one that always embraced innovation and originality.
Over the years, the Ndlovu Youth Choir has built a distinct identity by weaving together traditional African rhythms with modern pop melodies. Their viral collaboration with Grammy-winning flutist Wouter Kellerman on Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You” is another perfect example. That rendition, now boasting over 9 million views, showcases the choir’s ability to breathe new life into familiar tunes while preserving their cultural authenticity.
What began as a community initiative under the Ndlovu Care Group to uplift disadvantaged children has grown into a global musical sensation. The choir not only showcases the artistic diversity of Africa but also serves as a symbol of hope, pride, and unity. Their Zulu version of “Bohemian Rhapsody” isn’t just a cover — it’s a cultural masterpiece that bridges continents, redefines creativity, and reminds the world of Africa’s boundless musical brilliance.
