Adam Lambert says stepping onto the stage with Queen wasn’t just another milestone—it completely reshaped the course of his career.

More than a decade after first joining the legendary rock band as its touring frontman, the American Idol standout is reflecting on the experience that took him from reality TV finalist to performing in stadiums around the world alongside rock icons Brian May and Roger Taylor.

Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter while discussing his latest album, Adam, the 44-year-old singer admitted it’s almost impossible to imagine what his career would have looked like without the opportunity.

“I think the more interesting question would be, how did it not change my life?” Lambert said. “It was such a massive career get. Not only did it give me a lot of credibility within the industry, it kind of proved a point.”

Lambert officially began touring with Queen in 2011, performing under the name Queen + Adam Lambert. Since then, the collaboration has resulted in two live albums and a special recording of “We Are the Champions,” while introducing the singer to millions of fans across the globe.

Taking on the role once held by the legendary Freddie Mercury was no small challenge, but Lambert says the band’s music felt like a natural fit for his voice and performance style.

“It was a home that was a real good fit for me—their catalog really suits my strengths as a performer,” he explained. “I learned a lot from Brian May and Roger Taylor. They’re incredible. We spent over 10 years touring, so it really became a big extended family.”

Beyond the career opportunities, Lambert says one of the greatest honors has been paying tribute to one of his lifelong musical heroes.

“And getting to honor Freddie Mercury—somebody I really look up to as a performer, as a writer and, from what we know about him, as a human being—I loved the opportunity to celebrate him,” he said.

Lambert acknowledged that winning over Queen’s devoted fan base wasn’t easy in the beginning. Many longtime supporters understandably struggled with the idea of anyone stepping into Mercury’s shoes.

“Look, this is hallowed ground—you can’t replace the guy,” Lambert admitted. “There were going to be people who were protective and territorial. But in a way, it fueled me to work harder. It gave me the hill to climb.”

Fortunately, he had the full support of May and Taylor from the start. Instead of encouraging him to imitate Mercury, they offered advice that would shape his entire approach.

“You don’t need to mimic what Freddie did on the recording. You can find your own way,” they told him.

“That was all I needed to hear,” Lambert recalled.

Before becoming Queen’s frontman, Lambert first captured international attention during Season 8 of American Idol in 2009, where he finished as the competition’s runner-up. He went on to establish a successful solo career with albums including For Your Entertainment, Trespassing, The Original High, Velvet, and High Drama.

Now, Lambert is continuing that journey with his latest studio album, Adam, released on July 10. The record features the single “Eat U Alive” and marks another personal chapter for the singer as he balances his solo career with the enduring legacy of Queen.

Source: Various Sources.