If you're a fan of the band Queen, (who isn't?) then you've probably heard Bohemian Rhapsody covered by other artists, some good, some not so much. Heck, even the Muppets recorded their own version the the Queen classic.
I think it's safe to say, none of them can compare to the original, with the legendary, Freddy Mercury singing lead vocals and band members, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon filling in the backing vocals.
But then Marc Martel's cover appeared on YouTube a little over a month ago and quickly racked up over 9 million views.
The resemblance is uncanny. Not only does Marc naturally have the same vocal sound as Freddie, but has managed to copy Freddie's style and emotion which is no easy task. Have a listen:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkCxE2Lh458
Here's a clip for comparison with Freddie singing vocals only, overlaid on Marc's video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCjUFznL9mU
Aside from a phenomenal voice and range, Freddie Mercury had the ability to add texture, grit, vibrato and in addition, had a particular way of pronouncing words as he sang them. This is what makes him so loved by so many. Talent, skill and emotion came together in all the songs Freddie sang.
Marc Martel has succeeded in bringing us what we loved so much about Freddy Mercury. Listen to Marc sing another Queen fan favorite, Love of My Life:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2armE23ysIw
Marc's talent was noticed by none other than Queen members Brian May and Roger Taylor when, in 2011, he auditioned for the official Queen Tribute band, The Queen Extravaganza.
In an interview, Roger Taylor said "You close your eyes and you think Freddie is actually singing in the room."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dREKkAk628I
Needless to say, Marc was chosen to sing lead vocals for the tribute band which lasted until 2017 when he started his own tribute show called, The Ultimate Queen Celebration, which has toured extensively all over the globe.
Marc's ability to sound like Freddie Mercury may be the reason so many people are discovering him, but it's far from the end of his talent as his incredible range of music shows.
Marc Martel Singing "You Take My Breath Away" (Headline Image)
