Queen released “We Will Rock You” in 1977. The song first appeared on the band’s sixth studio album, News of the World, and was issued as a double A-side single with “We Are the Champions” on October 7, 1977.
Guitarist Brian May wrote the song after Queen’s audiences began singing along loudly at concerts. He designed its famous stomp-stomp-clap rhythm as a piece of music that crowds could perform themselves. The recording uses layered foot stomps and handclaps to create the impression of a much larger audience.
Although the track is mostly built around body percussion and vocals, Brian May’s guitar enters during the final section. The song is often confused with “We Are the Champions” because the two were released together and are frequently played consecutively at sporting events. Its simple rhythm helped make it one of rock’s most recognizable stadium anthems.