Coronavirus: You Are The Champions - Queen dedicate lockdown version to world frontline workers

Linking up virtually between the UK and Los Angeles Brian May, Roger Taylor and Adam Lambert have recorded a new version of the Queen’s classic, We Are The Champions.

Proceeds raised from the track will go to the COVID-19 solidarity response fund for the World Health Organization (WHO), powered by the United Nations Foundation.

’Those brave warriors in the front line are our new champions’

The fund provides tools and resources to health workers on the frontlines globally, including PPE, testing kits, trainings, and more. Additionally, the fund supports the rapid development of a vaccine.

Guitarist Brian May said: “It seems to me we should dedicate this one to all the front-line soldiers fighting for Humanity against the insurgent coronavirus.

“Just like our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents who fought for us in two world wars, those brave warriors in the front line are our new champions. 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.”

With an overwhelming demand for the track to be made available to download the resulting ‘virtual jam’ version now titled You Are The Champions and additionally featuring band bass player Neil Fairclough, is available now on all streaming and download services.

Queen drummer Roger Taylor said: “As a father with a daughter in the front line, I am ultra-aware of the vital work they are doing daily to save us and our society.

"Their bravery and sacrifice must not be prejudiced by anything less than a one hundred per cent effort by our governments to protect them. They are precious to us all and they are truly our champions.”

Since the coronavirus pandemic and global lockdown this has forced Queen + Adam Lambert to reschedule their UK and European tour to 2021. The band hopes this new version will provide some consolation for disappointed fans.

Singer Adam Lambert said: “It is with the deepest gratitude to all those on the frontline all over the world that we dedicate our performance. Thank you for keeping us safe, we are in awe of your bravery and strength.”

President and chief executive of UN Foundations said: “We are grateful to Queen and Adam Lambert for using their talents to support our heroes on the frontlines of the COVID-19 response. Their contribution to this fight will lift spirits and raise critical funds for the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization.”

Queen + Adam Lambert’s You Are The Champions is available from today across all streaming and download services.