Since Adam Lambert took on the role of fronting Queen in 2011, one question has often been on his mind: What would Freddie Mercury think?
It’s a daunting task to step into the shoes of one of rock’s greatest icons, and for Lambert, the responsibility goes beyond just singing the songs. “I often wonder, ‘Is Freddie’s spirit aware that we’re still celebrating him and singing his music? Would Freddie like the way I sing?’” Lambert reflected in an interview. “And I hope, with all my heart, that he would approve of everything that we’ve been doing with these songs.”
Lambert, now 42, approaches his performances with reverence, aware that the audience is not just there to hear Queen’s greatest hits, but to connect with the memory of Mercury, the legendary lead singer. “For me, a ghost is the memory of somebody that’s existing collectively in a group of people. The entire audience is remembering Freddie, so his ghost is in the room,” he said. “And I hope it’s a happy, satisfied, proud ghost.”
While Lambert’s stellar vocals and theatrical presence have earned him widespread praise, he’s quick to point out that he is not, nor ever has been, an official member of the band. “I’m a lifelong Freddie Mercury fan — I think he is irreplaceable,” he emphasized. “It’s not been a replacement. It’s not been me taking over. It’s always felt like a collaboration that allows us to celebrate Freddie, that allows us to celebrate the music of the band.”
Lambert sees himself as a vessel through which Queen’s music can live on. His role, he believes, is to serve the legacy of Queen’s remaining members, guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor, and to give them the opportunity to continue performing the songs they helped create. “I feel, in many ways, that I’m of service to Brian and Roger, so that they can get onstage and perform their songs. And you couldn’t ask for a better job.”
For over a decade now, Lambert has managed to strike the delicate balance between paying homage to Freddie Mercury and bringing his own flair to Queen’s performances. In doing so, he’s not just keeping the music alive; he’s keeping the spirit of Freddie Mercury shining brightly for millions of fans around the world.
Watch some Adam’s performance below:
