When Adam Lambert went country with Leona Lewis to sing Girl Crush at the 2015 CMT Artists of the Year, it was a moment that took everyone by surprise – but it made perfect sense. Whoever decided to pair Adam with Leona deserves a standing ovation. I mean, Adam Lambert on a country awards show? It feels unreal, right? Yet, when you think about it, this isn’t the first time Adam has defied expectations. Remember American Idol Season 8, when he sang Ring of Fire and told Simon Cowell he probably wouldn’t be going to Nashville? Fast forward to 2010, and Adam is performing in Nashville during his Glamnation Tour, winning over country audiences. But to see him on that country stage with Leona Lewis? Pure magic.
Just his appearance alone was stunning. This was the most conservative he’s ever looked—he knows exactly who his audience is. And Leona? She was amazing too! The two of them were a perfect pairing, and I can’t help but wish for more collaborations from them in the future. It’s a little poetic, too. Both Adam and Leona got their start on shows from Simon Cowell, with Leona rising to fame on The X Factor in the UK, and Adam on American Idol. Their performance was flawless, and it’s clear they both understand the song’s emotional weight.
Girl Crush by Little Big Town had a controversial journey, with some radio stations pulling it from their playlists after being misunderstood by listeners who thought it was about lesbianism. The song is more about a woman obsessing over the one her lover left her for. As Karen Fairchild from Little Big Town said, the controversy was shocking to her, considering that wasn’t the song’s message. But who can deny how infectious this song is? After watching Adam and Leona perform it, you couldn’t help but feel every emotional nuance and realize how powerful it really is.
The performance quickly went viral, with over 10 million views on YouTube, as fans raved about Adam’s voice. The question about whether Adam deserved to win American Idol or whether he’s one of the greatest voices in the music industry sparked heated discussions on social media. And honestly? That’s not a question that needs to be asked—Adam Lambert’s voice speaks for itself.
While many remarkable vocalists have graced the American Idol stage, Adam’s electrifying performances stand out as some of the most iconic in the show’s history. Who could forget his rendition of Born to Be Wild by Steppenwolf? Dressed in a rock ‘n’ roll leather jacket and black jeans, Adam electrified the audience with his stage presence and vocal acrobatics. He took the song to a whole new level, adding his own melodic twists and impressive vocal runs that culminated in an unforgettable climax.
What makes Adam truly exceptional is his versatility. From the soulful, heart-wrenching Mad World to the funky Play That Funky Music, he can seamlessly switch between genres, effortlessly commanding every stage he steps on. While he may have been the runner-up on American Idol, his impact on the show and music industry is undeniable. Adam Lambert’s natural charisma, unmatched vocal talent, and passion for performing have solidified him as one of the greatest artists of his generation.
Since American Idol, Adam’s career has soared to even greater heights, with three consecutive US top five albums and his ongoing role as the frontman for rock legends Queen. Looking back on his journey, Adam often reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his career. His unforgettable audition, where he sang Bohemian Rhapsody with Queen, set the stage for his meteoric rise to superstardom, cementing his place in music history.
Watching Adam and Leona perform Girl Crush together was a moment of brilliance, and it’s a performance I’ll never forget. The chemistry between them, the power of their voices, and the magic they created on stage proved that when artists like Adam Lambert and Leona Lewis collaborate, something truly special happens.