Download Instrumental   This song has become the anthem of victory for sports teams from small town Little League Baseball teams to Pro Football to the Olympics.  I’ve even heard it sung in corporate board rooms while celebrating the demise of another company.  “Happy Birthday” used to be the most popular tune on the planet, but not anymore.  Everybody loves a winner, so why not sing about it?  “We are the Champions” has taken over the world!

In these days of “everybody gets a trophy”, it’s refreshing to see something that touts skill and beating the competition.  Freddy Mercury, lead singer for Queen, wrote this piece about the band’s ultimate success after many years grinding through the trials that make up the music business – “It’s been no bed of roses, no pleasure cruise”.  With the release of “We are the Champions” in 1977, Mercury felt that Queen had finally reached the pinnacle of their profession, as well they had.  This one sent them over the top, especially when coupled with the B Side of the record, “We Will Rock You”.  If the man were alive today, I’m sure he’d say, “Victory is oh, so sweet”.  Bravo, Freddy!

Musically, this song is in a class by itself.   It’s based on Mercury’s piano rift, which includes jazz chords that I wouldn’t even begin to attempt.  The bass line is pretty straightforward, as is the drum track.  But the lead guitar probes in and out like a thief in the night, eventually playing along with lead vocals toward the end.  And the backup vocals are incredible – 3, 4 and even 5 part harmony – amazing!  The song builds and builds, then drops to a whisper.  So effective and sweet.  I never appreciated Freddy Mercury’s talent, but I certainly do now.  Put this one in your repertoire.  It’s not out of reach – just requires a little work.  And your audience will sing and wave like nobody’s business.  Save it for the end of your night – well worth the wait.