The Budweiser Clydesdales are one of the most iconic symbols in American advertising, representing tradition, strength, and heritage. Over the years, these majestic horses have been featured in numerous commercials, parades, and live events. One of their most memorable performances was their rendition of “We Will Rock You,” a timeless rock anthem by Queen. This performance not only showcased the beauty and precision of the Clydesdales but also demonstrated the brand’s ability to blend classic Americana with contemporary entertainment.
The History of Budweiser Clydesdales
Before delving into the performance, it’s essential to understand the legacy of the Budweiser Clydesdales. These horses were introduced in 1933 as a gift from August A. Busch Jr. and Adolphus Busch to their father to celebrate the repeal of Prohibition. Since then, they have become a national symbol of the Anheuser-Busch brand, making appearances at Super Bowls, holiday commercials, and major public events. Their grace, discipline, and immense size make them a sight to behold, and their presence in any event commands attention.
The Significance of “We Will Rock You”
“We Will Rock You” by Queen is one of the most recognizable rock anthems in music history. Written by Brian May, the song was released in 1977 and quickly became an audience participation staple at concerts, sports events, and celebrations worldwide. The song’s rhythm—a simple yet powerful stomp-stomp-clap—makes it instantly recognizable and easy to follow, which is why it was a perfect choice for the Budweiser Clydesdales’ performance. By integrating this rock classic with their trademark imagery, Budweiser successfully created a commercial that resonated with audiences of all generations.
The Performance Breakdown
The advertisement featuring the Budweiser Clydesdales performing “We Will Rock You” was nothing short of spectacular. The scene was set in an open field, with a picturesque backdrop of rolling hills and a crisp blue sky. As the commercial began, the camera zoomed in on the powerful hooves of the Clydesdales as they marched in unison, perfectly synchronized to the rhythm of the song’s famous beat.
The horses, with their well-groomed coats and white feathering on their legs, began the iconic “stomp-stomp-clap” sequence with their hooves, mimicking the beat of the song. As the music built up, more Clydesdales joined in, creating a mesmerizing display of rhythm and movement. The precision of their hoofbeats combined with the song’s beat demonstrated not only the training and discipline of the horses but also the seamless integration of music and motion.
Adding to the drama, the commercial included close-up shots of the horses’ intense eyes, their muscular frames, and their powerful strides, all of which emphasized their strength and grandeur. The wide-angle shots captured the vastness of the landscape, reinforcing the idea of freedom, tradition, and power—key themes often associated with Budweiser’s branding.
The Reaction from the Audience
When the commercial aired, it received an overwhelmingly positive response from viewers. People were fascinated by the combination of a rock classic and the regal performance of the Clydesdales. The commercial successfully evoked nostalgia, excitement, and admiration, making it one of Budweiser’s most memorable advertisements. Fans of both classic rock and Budweiser appreciated the creative approach to blending two beloved icons—Queen’s music and the Budweiser Clydesdales.
The advertisement was particularly effective because it appealed to a broad audience. Classic rock fans found joy in seeing one of their favorite anthems repurposed in such a unique way, while beer enthusiasts and long-time Budweiser supporters enjoyed seeing the beloved Clydesdales in a fresh and entertaining light. The commercial’s blend of music, precision, and artistic cinematography made it stand out in the crowded landscape of advertising.
Behind the Scenes: Training and Execution
Executing such a performance required meticulous planning and expert training. The Budweiser Clydesdales undergo rigorous training to ensure they can perform in high-pressure environments, including parades, commercials, and public appearances. Their handlers spend years working with them, building trust and communication to achieve perfect synchronization.
For this particular commercial, trainers worked extensively on timing the horses’ steps to match the beat of “We Will Rock You.” Each horse had to move in harmony, creating a natural rhythm that aligned with the song’s tempo. The filming process likely involved multiple takes, with careful attention to detail to ensure the movement was flawless.
The cinematographers played a crucial role in capturing the magic of the performance. The strategic use of slow-motion shots, close-ups, and wide angles helped highlight the sheer power and grace of the Clydesdales. By incorporating these visual elements, the commercial achieved a cinematic quality that elevated it beyond a typical advertisement.
The Cultural Impact
The Budweiser Clydesdales’ performance of “We Will Rock You” is a testament to the power of combining tradition with modern creativity. In an era where advertising must compete for attention in a crowded digital landscape, this commercial proved that classic storytelling, combined with a fresh twist, can leave a lasting impression.
Moreover, the commercial reinforced Budweiser’s image as a brand that values heritage, strength, and entertainment. It connected with audiences on an emotional level, tapping into shared memories of both the Clydesdales and the legendary song. The use of music in advertising has always been a powerful tool, and Budweiser executed this strategy flawlessly with their unique take on “We Will Rock You.”
Conclusion
The Budweiser Clydesdales’ performance of “We Will Rock You” remains an iconic moment in advertising history. The blend of powerful visuals, synchronized movement, and a legendary rock anthem created a commercial that was both entertaining and emotionally compelling. It showcased the beauty and discipline of the Clydesdales while paying homage to a classic song that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Through this performance, Budweiser once again demonstrated its ability to innovate while staying true to its roots. The commercial wasn’t just about selling beer—it was about evoking a sense of pride, nostalgia, and admiration. By pairing their legendary Clydesdales with the universal appeal of “We Will Rock You,” Budweiser created a moment that captured the hearts of viewers and secured its place in the pantheon of great advertising moments.
