Adam Lambert reflects on his career and new album in London
In a recent interview, Adam Lambert discussed his journey from the vibrant Los Angeles club scene to global stardom as the frontman for Queen, revealing insights into his personal evolution and artistic reawakening, reports BritPanorama.
Lambert, now 44, recalls his time mingling with Hollywood A-listers like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan during the mid-Noughties, when he was still an aspiring theatre actor. “That stuff in the 2000s was wild,” he said, reminiscing about a time before smartphones emerged. “What happened in Hyde stayed in Hyde.” The paparazzi, he noted, were relentless, often behaving like “hyenas.”
Despite the excitement of those days, Lambert confesses he felt unfulfilled and lost. A transformative experience at Burning Man led him to pursue his passion for music wholeheartedly. He auditioned for American Idol in 2009, where he showcased his exceptional vocal talent, eventually finishing as runner-up. This moment marked the beginning of his rise to fame.
Seventeen years on, Lambert finds himself seated in a bar in King’s Cross, London, reflecting on his current life. He describes it as an “all or nothing” phase, oscillating between enjoying quiet nights with his dog and going out. Having recently relocated to New York, he initially anticipated that the vibrant environment would inspire him to explore more, yet confesses he often prefers solitude.
Lambert is preparing to release his sixth album, ADAM, the first under his own label, which he describes as a “little rebirth.” The album reflects a shift in sound, influenced by his experiences in New York, and opens with “Rat City,” a tribute to his new home. He aims to create music that is “heavy and dense and concrete,” reclaiming a sense of authenticity in his work.
For much of the past decade, Lambert has performed other artists’ songs, notably fronting Queen, but now seeks to express his own vision. He describes the creative process behind ADAM, stating, “I wanted to do something less performative now.” The album features introspective tracks that highlight his growth as an artist, such as “Am I OK,” a ballad reflecting on a recent breakup.
In addressing his role within the LGBT+ community, Lambert acknowledges the pressure that comes with being a visible figure for queer representation. His emergence as a public figure coincided with significant cultural shifts, and he remains concerned about the current political climate under Donald Trump’s administration. Lambert warns of the damaging impact on the LGBT+ community and speaks candidly about the society’s increasing polarization.
He emphasizes that Trump’s policies contribute to a toxic atmosphere for marginalized groups, stating, “It’s a toxic wave, and we all feel it.” Lambert expresses frustration over how this has emboldened bigotry and contributed to societal tension, reflecting on the loss of representation for those who do not fit traditional norms.
As he prepares for the release of ADAM, Lambert is aware of the implications of his visibility. “I’m finally in a place of confidence that’s not arrogance. It’s like, ‘No, I deserve to be here,’” he asserts. As he transitions into this new chapter of his career, he finds pride in his achievements and a renewed sense of purpose.
ADAM is out now
