Renowned Acappella Group Pentatonix Take On Bohemian Rhapsody – and Absolutely Smash It
In 2024, a cappella quintet Pentatonix released a voice-only interpretation of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” taking on a composition that few performers would attempt to cover. All of the sounds in the recording came from the five members rather than conventional instruments. The performance spread widely online, with its video surpassing one million views and prompting an enthusiastic response to the group’s vocal skill.
The arrangement goes beyond trying to duplicate Queen’s recording. Pentatonix adapt its many parts to their own format, using five voices to handle the musical demands of the track and give the cover a character of its own. The result demonstrates how the song can be reconstructed by a small vocal ensemble despite the complexity associated with the original.
Lead singer Mitch Grassi contributes a visual nod to Freddie Mercury during the performance. He appears with a mustache reminiscent of the former Queen singer’s, as well as a black blazer that could have come from Mercury’s wardrobe. These choices make the connection recognizable while Pentatonix pursue a distinctly a cappella treatment of the music.
Watch the full performance on page two
