Watch: Megan Thee Stallion Puts 'Savage' Spin on Queen Classic for Pepsi

A new Pepsi campaign inspired by Paramount Pictures' upcoming "Gladiator II" kicks off the 2024 NFL season, starring Megan Thee Stallion and NFL superstars Josh Allen, Derrick Henry, Justin Jefferson and Travis Kelce.

Pepsi is turning up the heat this NFL season with a new anthem featuring three-time Grammy Award winner Megan Thee Stallion. Set to the iconic "boom, boom, clap" beat from Queen's "We Will Rock You," Megan's fresh take is already making waves across major music streaming platforms. She's also set to host the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards on Sept. 11, where this track and its music video will be featured prominently.

Known for her chart-topping hits and fierce persona, the rapper is no stranger to the spotlight. From her "Savage" TikTok explosion to collaborations with fashion brands like Coach and Revlon, she's been a force in both the music and advertising worlds. But this time, she's stepping into the gladiator arena, and it’s not just about music — it’s about creating a legacy.

"I'm honored to follow in the footsteps of legends who appeared in this Gladiator campaign 20 years ago and proud to carve out my own legacy," Megan said in a news release announcing the collaboration. "Pepsi really brought the worlds of music, sports, and entertainment together in a powerful way to kick off the new NFL season. It was fun putting my creative spin on such an iconic Queen song, and I can't wait for the Hotties to hear it!"

The ad, produced by Ridley Scott Associates and directed by Jake Scott, draws inspiration from the upcoming "Gladiator II" film. Lamorne Morris and Jake Lacy crack open a can of Pepsi Zero Sugar, and suddenly, they’re in a coliseum with Megan at the helm as Empress. NFL stars including Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald, and New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley scramble for her approval — and a sip of that ice-cold Pepsi — as the battle for game-day supremacy begins.

Jake Scott, no stranger to creating visual spectacles, said, "Bringing the epic world of 'Gladiator II' to life in a modern, dynamic way through this Pepsi campaign was incredibly exciting. We wanted to create a visual spectacle that captured the energy and intensity of the sport while also paying homage to the iconic film and the original Pepsi campaign."

This isn't the first time Pepsi has teamed up with music royalty. From Michael Jackson’s moonwalk to Britney Spears’ “Joy of Pepsi,” the brand has a storied history of blending pop culture with its refreshing beverages. Megan’s new track is set to join the ranks of these legendary moments, adding her own flavor to the mix.

Fans can dive even deeper into the Roman Empire theme with a slew of campaign extensions, including the "My Roman Empire" portrait generator and limited-edition Talking Cans. And, of course, Megan’s "We Will Rock You" version is now available on all major streaming platforms.

See the spot for yourself below.

Motown Legend Pat Lewis, Influential Backup Singer and Soul Star, Dies at 76

Pat Lewis, a Detroit soul singer whose voice graced some of the most iconic recordings of the past six decades, has died. She was 76.

Lewis, renowned as a background vocalist for legends like Aretha Franklin and Isaac Hayes, died unexpectedly Tuesday, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential yet underappreciated figures in American music.

Born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, in 1947, Lewis moved with her family to Detroit in the early 1950s. In the early 1960s, she co-founded the vocal quartet The Adorables alongside her sister Dianne and friends Betty and Jackie Winston.

The group recorded for Golden World Records, laying the foundation for what would be a remarkable, if largely unsung, career in music.

Lewis began her solo career in 1966 with the release of her single "Can't Shake It Loose." But it was her work as a background singer that truly defined her career.

Her break came when she stepped in to provide backing vocals for Stevie Wonder during a session at Motown Records. From that moment, Lewis' voice became a staple on Motown tracks, leading to collaborations with a roster of stars that included Franklin and Hayes.

In the 1970s, Lewis joined Hayes' ensemble, contributing to some of his most memorable recordings. She also became a key collaborator with Franklin, providing backing vocals on two of her most acclaimed albums, "Amazing Grace" and "Young, Gifted and Black."

Lewis' talents extended beyond the microphone. She was also a gifted arranger, praised by her peers for her ability to craft intricate vocal harmonies.

In a heartfelt tribute, producer Ian Levine, who worked extensively with Lewis during the 1980s and beyond, described her as "the kindest, warmest, loveliest lady I ever knew in my life." Levine recalled how Lewis recorded more songs with him than any other artist throughout his 50-year career, becoming not only a close collaborator but a dear friend.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF PAT “PATSY” LEWIS - 1947 - 2024

I have written many obituaries for many artists, but nothing was ever as hard and painful as this was.

My world will never be the same again. pic.twitter.com/O3AdkbLKAw

— Ian Levine (@IanLevine) September 3, 2024

In 1989, Levine spearheaded a Motown reunion project under the Motorcity Records label in the U.K. The project aimed to record new material with former Motown artists. Lewis was instrumental in its success, contributing vocals to an astounding 800 tracks out of the 857 recorded between 1986 and 1992. Her dedication and skill earned her the admiration of many, including Motown luminaries like Sylvia Moy and Johnny Bristol.

Despite the label's eventual decline, Lewis continued to work with Levine, recording gospel tracks and cover versions of classic soul songs. She also performed at Northern Soul venues in the U.K., where she was celebrated as a "Northern Soul Queen." Her occasional tours with Martha Reeves and the Vandellas kept her connected to the music community she loved.

Lewis' influence extended beyond her musical talents. She was known for her loyalty and unwavering support for her friends and collaborators. Levine recounted how Lewis defended him publicly against false accusations, demonstrating the depth of her character and the strength of her convictions.

Her passing has left a void in the music world, but her legacy lives on through the countless recordings she contributed to and the lives she touched. George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic paid tribute to her on social media, stating: “Rest in eternal peace and Detroit Soul, Pat Lewis! A Northern Soul Queen! Farewell, Motor City Sister!”

Beyoncé's 43rd Birthday Marked with a Comic Book Tribute

Beyoncé is the latest subject of TidalWave Comics' "Female Force" series, with a new comic book set to be released on her 43rd birthday Wednesday.

The 22-page comic, titled "Female Force: Beyoncé," traces her rise from pop royalty to a prominent feminist figure. It is part of TidalWave's ongoing series that highlights influential women, following previous editions on Lizzo, Dolly Parton and Taylor Swift.

“This comic offers a fresh perspective on Beyoncé’s evolution, showcasing her impact on music and culture,” Michael Frizell, the comic's author, said in a news release announcing the book. Illustrated by Ramon Salas, it will be available in both print and digital formats, with cover art by Pablo Martinena.

The release coincides with the success of Beyoncé’s latest musical project, "Cowboy Carter," an album that explores genre and history. Partially inspired by her 2016 performance of "Daddy Lessons" with The Chicks at the Country Music Association Awards, which sparked mixed reactions, the album made history by becoming the first album by a Black woman to top Billboard’s Country Albums chart.

The single "Texas Hold 'Em" also became the first country song by a Black woman to reach No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Country Songs charts.

Beyoncé’s influence extends beyond the music charts. She recently announced her new whiskey brand, SirDavis, inspired by her great-grandfather Davis Hogue, a moonshiner, and bottled in her hometown of Houston. Additionally, she has earned 17 nominations for the upcoming People’s Choice Country Awards and is also a nominee for two MTV Video Music Awards.

TidalWave Comics' titles, including "Female Force: Beyoncé," are available for digital download on platforms such as Kindle, iTunes, ComiXology and Google Play, among others.