[dropcap]A[/dropcap]dam Lambert hopes that he can keep Freddie Mercury’s “memory alive” whilst performing with iconic band Queen. The singer is now a staple part of the legendary group’s live shows and he’s so far won rave reviews for his brilliant performances as the group’s frontman.
Insisting that he never tries to imitate or replace Freddie on-stage, Adam instead claims his main motivation for singing with Queen is to keep his idol’s wonderful music alive.
Speaking in the new issue of Classic Rock magazine he explains: “There’s never going to be another (Freddie), and I’m not replacing him. That’s not what I’m doing. I’m trying to keep the memory alive, and remind people how amazing he was, without imitating him. I’m trying to share with the audience how much he inspired me.”
Guitarist Brian May has in the past praised Adam’s vocal ability, saying he’s the first singer to work with the band since Freddie’s passing that can perform all of their songs.
Brian said: “Adam is the first person we’ve encountered who can do all the Queen catalogue without blinking. He is a gift from god.”
Drummer Roger Taylor is also blown away by Adam’s talent, adding: “(His voice is) one in a billion ... He’s incredibly musical, and we certainly take anything he says quite seriously.”
Queen’s concerts still include Freddie as video recordings are infused into certain tracks, with Brian admitting it’s important for tribute to be made to their friend without getting too nostalgic.
“We’ve been on tour in the States with Adam, and Freddie’s already there because of the writing, and the original performances that we model the show on. But he’s there also in a much more tangible way, because we use video footage. It’s nice to feel he’s part of it, without being swamped by nostalgia. I think we tread that line quite tastefully and carefully.”
Queen and Adam Lambert kick off their European arena tour - for which tickets are still available - next week on January 13 at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England.
