Few songs pull at the heartstrings quite like Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.” What’s so formidable about this masterpiece is that before it, there were long songs, complex songs, and opera-influenced songs. But, to have all three qualities come together as one was unheard of and totally revolutionary. It is a piece of musical wizardry and magic that is held in such high esteem for these very reasons. Plus, it was a commercial hit!
And let’s not forget the sheer creative genius behind it in terms of production, engineering, lyrics, layering, sound, you name it! To put this 5-minute and 55-second mega son together, it took over 70 hours of recording. It’s safe to say “Bohemian Rhapsody” might be one of the strangest, most beautiful and cinematic songs of the century.
Anyone who takes on this song better have the vocal chops to do it justice! Otherwise, you’re just wasting everyone’s time. Well, for country singer and songwriter Jennifer Nettles, she decided to give it a shot with her band. Opening for the CMT Next Women of Country Tour, she certainly gave it her best shot and delivered beautifully, sparing nothing to put on a fabulous show.
The lights are dark as a hushed crowd eagerly awaits for Jennifer to start. The familiar words, “Is this is the real life…?” are uttered, layered and harmonized just like everyone is accustomed to hearing. It’s her voice atop the other voices from her band, and the crowd knows they are in for a treat. It’s all acapella until the piano chimes in and Jennifer takes over on the lead vocals. While Jennifer sings Freddie’s part, the band really went all out to come up with a very accurate version of the Queen hit. It’s truly exceptional the lengths to which everybody went to create an authentic version of the original.
It quickly becomes clear just how much of her heart and soul Jennifer pours into this performance. Her vocal range is on point and she nails all the highs and lows of the song, mimicking Freddie’s vocal agility and then some! Each act of the song builds momentum, and Jennifer shines all the way through. This routine is no cake walk and you can tell she summons every ounce of strength to put on a good show.
Did you catch her rock goddess lip snarls? She’s switched her cowboy boots for snakeskin pants and she is on fire.
Click the video below to watch Jennifer Nettles bring home the Queen classic.
