Queen + Adam Lambert released “You Are the Champions” on Friday, a modified version of their classic song “We Are the Champions,” as a way to honor health care workers who are on the front lines of stopping the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
The song is available on all streaming platforms and all proceeds and royalties will go toward supporting the World Health Organization’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund, which is providing supplies to hospitals worldwide, coordinating relief efforts, tracking the virus, and researching treatments and vaccines.
“It seems to me we should dedicate this one to all the frontline soldiers fighting for humanity against the insurgent coronavirus,” guitarist Brian May said in a statement. “Just like our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents who fought for us in two world wars, those brave warriors [on] the front line are our new champions.”
He added: “That means the doctors, nurses, cleaners, porters, drivers, tea-ladies and gentlemen, and all who are quietly risking their lives daily to save the lives of our kin. Champions, all!”
The abbreviated song keeps the same lyrics as the original until the second chorus, when Lambert switches out “we” for “you.” In an accompanying video shot with mobile phones, Lambert, May, and drummer Roger Taylor are shown from their respective homes as they practice social distancing. Images of health care workers flash across the screen throughout.
“As a father with a daughter [on] the [front lines], I am ultra-aware of the vital work they are doing daily to save us and our society,” Taylor said in a statement. “Their bravery and sacrifice must not be prejudiced by anything less than a 100% effort by our governments to protect them. They are precious to us all and they are truly our champions.”
Queen + Adam Lambert have long championed global health and a range of other causes, including improving access to food. Lambert recently joined Global Citizen for the One World: Together At Home broadcast, which celebrated health care workers and raised awareness of the important work they’re doing. Previously, Queen + Adam Lambert performed as headliners at the 2019 Global Citizen Festival in New York.
“It is with the deepest gratitude to all those on the front line all over the world that we dedicate our performance,” Lambert said in a press release. “Thank you for keeping us safe; we are in awe of your bravery and strength.”