Adam Lambert Reflects on Queen's Future and Solo Career Ambitions
The vocalist discusses his intimate Halloween show and potential future projects beyond Queen.
1Intimate Halloween Benefit Performance
Adam Lambert performed a special Halloween-themed show at New York City's Cafe Carlyle on October 30. The event, attended by approximately 90 fans, served as a fundraiser for his Feel Something Foundation. Lambert curated a dark, gothic setlist featuring tracks like 'Bad Moon Rising' and 'Helter Skelter' to suit the venue's atmosphere.
2Transition to New York Life
After years of living in Los Angeles, Lambert has officially relocated to New York City. He recently obtained a local driver's license and expressed appreciation for the city's walkability. This lifestyle change contrasts with his previous reliance on driving in California, allowing him more freedom to observe the urban environment daily.
3Curating a Gothic Setlist
Lambert intentionally avoided kitschy Halloween songs, opting instead for tracks that fit a dark, romantic aesthetic. He included diverse selections such as Amy Winehouse's 'Back to Black' and Kansas's 'Dust in the Wind'. The singer noted that he chose these songs to evoke a timeless, vampire-like atmosphere across different musical genres.
4Queen's Uncertain Touring Future
Queen + Adam Lambert has been inactive since the Rhapsody World Tour concluded in Tokyo on February 14, 2024. Guitarist Brian May recently expressed hesitation regarding future tours, citing a desire for personal freedom. While May clarified he is not officially retiring, he remains non-committal about embarking on long-term, nine-month concert tours again.
5Potential Sphere Residency Fantasy
Lambert remains enthusiastic about the possibility of performing at the Sphere in Las Vegas with Queen. After attending a Grateful Dead concert there, he contacted Brian May and Roger Taylor to suggest the venue. He views the idea as a creative fantasy, though its feasibility as a concrete reality remains currently unconfirmed.
6Gratitude for Band Legacy
Despite the uncertainty surrounding future tours, Lambert expressed deep appreciation for his long tenure with Queen. He stated that he is eternally grateful for the experience and the memories created. Lambert emphasized that if the band's touring era has concluded, he accepts that outcome with grace and remains proud of their shared history.
7Refusing Queen Spin-off Projects
Lambert explicitly ruled out creating any tribute-style projects, such as an 'Adam Lambert's Queen Experience.' Having performed alongside the actual band members, he believes any other iteration would feel cheap. His focus remains on maintaining the integrity of the work he accomplished with the original members of the legendary rock group.
8Broadway and Theatrical Ambitions
Following his late 2024 Broadway debut as the Emcee in 'Cabaret,' Lambert is exploring future musical theater opportunities. He prefers to be involved in the development process of new productions rather than just stepping into existing roles. He values the collaborative nature of originating a character within a fresh, creative theatrical vision.
9Developing a New Musical
Lambert is currently writing songs for a musical based on the life of an obscure 1970s musician. He has already secured a producer and a potential director for the project. Although he is working on the book and demos, he does not intend to play the lead role due to age considerations.
10Future Solo Musical Direction
Beyond his theatrical interests, Lambert plans to begin work on his next solo album this winter. He remains committed to his identity as a recording artist, prioritizing consistent music creation. His career trajectory now balances solo studio work with a desire to foster new, collaborative creative projects in the theater world.
Original article: Rolling Stone — Adam Lambert Reflects on Queen's Future and Solo Career Ambitions