In between rehearsals and planning for their show stopping gigs, American Idol winner Adam Lambert found time to share his thoughts about replacing iconic musician Freddie Mercury. On Australia’s Triple M radio station, the singer spoke about how he felt a responsibility to the late star and enjoyed paying “tribute” to him. But despite his enthusiasm, fans are quite divided about his place within the band.
“I’m so lucky that I get to pay tribute to [Freddie] and celebrate him as an artist and as a person, as a writer, as a singer,” Lambert told the radio station.
“And I think I relate to some of the stuff that he, obviously, has gone through; I can kind of draw some comparisons there.
“And I hope that in some way I can carry on his spirit. I think that there are certain intentions with which those songs are supposed to be sung, and I try to go there. And I’ve asked a lot of questions and learned a lot about him,” the singer continued.
“And I really try to keep him in the forefront of my mind. Not to imitate, but to do it for him — kind of, like, celebrate him.”
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In response to the comments, one fan posted on website blabbermouth.net: “Adam has an absolutely terrific voice, but no one, NO ONE, can replace Freddie in Queen.
“They should have ended Queen after the tribute concert to Freddie.”
“Cover band with great songs,” another person said. “Freddie is keeping Freddie’s legacy alive by being the icon who created a great deal of their music. Untouchable.
“I’m glad people enjoy Adam. I can’t stand his Broadway Shtick and fast vibrato. He in no way represents Freddie Mercury. Pays respect. Gets a pay check.”
While some fans remain convinced cover artist Marc Martel was the man for the job.
On the other hand, others think Lambert is the perfect addition to the band and the tour is doing incredibly well as a result, as one raged: “Another fool, who doesn’t get it. They don’t want a f*****g impersonator.
“They would get a f*****g impersonator, if they wanted a f*****g impersonator. But they f*****g don’t.
“They want somebody with their own personality and not somebody riding someone’s coattail. And also they don’t need a f*****g impersonator as all tours with Lambert are smashes regardless.”
Another fan asked: “What is wrong with all you haters? This guy is the best pop singer out there. If Freddie was alive Queen would sound terrible and not be selling out stadiums like they are today. Have you heard Jagger or Robert Plant lately!”
“For all you Adam haters, the bottom line is Brian and Roger think he does an amazing job and hand picked him to be the guy. That says it all. He has been very respectful and humble in his role,” a third enthused.
While a fourth said: “Adam Lambert totally knocked it out of the ballpark. He is truly amazing with an awesome singing voice. So happy he got second place,” followed by: “Absolutely fantastic show. The guy pays tribute to Freddie in a humble, classy way. They’re selling out huge venues worldwide. Freddie certainly is proud.”
“I watched his performance at the Fire Fight Australia show and was very impressed. He is extremely talented as a singer and performer, nobody could replace Freddie but Adam lives up to the standards he set,” another person added.
