Since teaming up with Queen in 2011, Adam Lambert has taken the stage as their new frontman, bringing fresh energy to their legendary catalog. With his strong vocals and natural showmanship, he’s helped Queen’s music stay alive for a new generation.
Together, Queen + Adam Lambert have toured all over the world, from Europe and North America to Asia and Australia. They’ve also released two live albums—Live in Japan (2016) and Live Around the World (2020). Their first performance together was in Kyiv in 2012, and they’ve been touring consistently ever since. Now, they’re preparing for their long-awaited return to North America.
One Song Lambert Won’t Touch
Despite his confidence and talent on stage, Adam Lambert recently opened up in an interview with Forbes about a song he refuses to perform—a decision made out of deep respect for Freddie Mercury.
“There was a song that I particularly love called Take My Breath Away. It’s just the most beautiful recording of Freddie. I was so in love with it, but I realized, ‘I don’t even want to touch it. It’s that beautiful.’”
Rather than perform it himself, Lambert suggested a different approach:
“Let’s play a little piece of Freddie singing it just to set the mood.”
Now, a short clip of Freddie’s original vocals plays before Queen launches into Who Wants To Live Forever. For Lambert, it’s a simple, powerful moment—like a quiet tribute to Freddie’s voice.
“It’s this beautiful palette cleanser. And I love hearing his voice on it. That’s one I dreamed of singing, but then decided not to.”
Keeping Freddie’s Spirit Alive
Guitarist Brian May also talked about how Freddie Mercury is still part of every show. But rather than using backing tracks or effects, Queen keeps it organic.
“You’ll hear Freddie during the show, and you’ll see him a bit. But no clicks, no backing tracks. Just us—and a few little touches of Freddie. His spirit is very strong.”
These choices show how much the band values authenticity and how deeply they respect Freddie’s legacy.
A Thoughtful Tribute
Lambert’s choice not to sing Take My Breath Away isn’t about limitations—it’s about honoring something perfect. Freddie Mercury’s voice on that song struck such a chord with Lambert that he felt it deserved to stand untouched. And by leaving space for Freddie in the show, Queen + Adam Lambert continue to connect the past with the present.
Their performances remind us that while the voices on stage may change, the heart of Queen’s music—its emotion, energy, and spirit—lives on.
