In 2009, a singer stepped onto the American Idol stage and redefined what it means to perform under pressure. Delivering a breathtaking rendition of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Adam Lambert didn’t just sing – he created a moment that left judges, including the notoriously hard-to-please Simon Cowell, absolutely stunned.
Adam Lambert’s journey on American Idol was marked by electrifying performances and a flair for theatricality.
Recalling his audition for the show, the then 26-year-old Broadway star explained that judges Simon Cowell and Kara DioGuardi told him, “You’re theatrical.”
“I had a feeling it was going to go down like this. They’re going to be, ‘Oh, he’s too Broadway.’ Even though I don’t feel like I actually am when I sing. I’m theatrical, but I don’t think that it’s necessarily musical theater,” said the singer who, before appearing on the singing competition show, was performing in the cast of Wicked.
Speaking with the LA Times in 2009, he shared, “I sang ‘Rock With You’ by Michael Jackson and they wanted to hear another one so I sang ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and that’s the one they ended up showing on TV.”
Bold move
And nothing prepared viewers for his rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which happened to be one of Cowell’s favorite songs.
Tackling such an iconic and vocally demanding song was a bold move, especially on a show where contestants are often judged for taking risks.
But the singer revealed he’s “huge Queen fan,” and was excited to pay tribute to Queen’s former frontman, the equally theatrical Freddie Mercury who died in 1991.
“Freddie’s the man. He’s the voice. Just the musicianship required to sing that kind of music is really high. It’s very melodic and rangy and dramatic and I appreciate all that,” the 42-year-old singer said.
From the opening notes, Lambert commanded the stage with an air of confidence that immediately set him apart from his peers.
Brilliant performance
Lambert’s interpretation of the song started with a hauntingly beautiful a cappella introduction. The audience, judges, and millions of viewers were captivated as he transitioned seamlessly through the song’s dramatic tempo changes. His ability to channel the song’s operatic flair while adding his unique style was a masterclass in performance art.
Simon Cowell, known for his scathing critiques, was visibly impressed. His reaction – eyes wide and a rare smile – spoke volumes. Cowell later described the performance as “theatrical, original, and brilliant,” a trifecta of praise rarely bestowed by the judge.
Queen’s new king
Though Lambert finished the show as runner up – he lost to singer Kris Allen – his American Idol performances paved the way for his career-defining collaboration with Queen. As the band’s frontman since 2011, Lambert has brought his unique energy to sold-out arenas worldwide, proving that his journey from Idol hopeful to international star was no fluke.
“Weird. It’s weird full circle stuff all around. It’s thrilling…What the hell’s going on? I can’t believe it,” he told the LA Times. “I almost feel like I’ve been preparing for this my whole life. I do feel this is what I’m supposed to be doing and I have a fatalistic view on life that things happen for a reason. I feel like everything that’s led up to this point has prepared me for this.”
Adam Lambert’s rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody on American Idol was more than a performance; it was a defining moment that showcased his exceptional talent and set the stage for his illustrious career. It reminded the world of the timeless power of Queen’s music and introduced a new star capable of doing it justice.
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