When Adam Lambert and Helene Fischer teamed up with Queen for an unforgettable performance of “Who Wants to Live Forever,” the music world was left in awe. The iconic song, originally released by Queen in 1986, has long been recognized as one of the band’s most poignant ballads. However, this performance took the song to new heights with the collaboration between Lambert, Fischer, and the legendary band.
Lambert, known for his incredible vocal range and ability to capture the essence of Freddie Mercury’s spirit, opened the ballad with a delicate, emotionally-charged delivery. His voice, lush and haunting, resonated over the orchestra’s strings, setting the stage for what would become an epic rendition of the song. His vocal prowess is unmatched in many respects, and his interpretation of Mercury’s iconic lines was both respectful and inventive.
As Fischer entered the scene, her powerful and crystalline voice seamlessly complemented Lambert’s. The chemistry between them was palpable, as they matched each other note for note. Fischer, a vocal powerhouse in her own right, demonstrated impressive control and expression, making the duet feel like a beautiful conversation between two great talents. It was an unexpected pairing that worked remarkably well, elevating the emotional depth of the performance.
When the full band joined in, the intensity of the song was amplified. Brian May’s guitar solo, full of raw emotion, layered perfectly with Roger Taylor’s steady drum groove. The band’s contribution was not just an accompaniment but a vital part of the performance, enhancing the emotional weight of the moment. The combination of Lambert’s soaring vocals, Fischer’s stunning harmonies, and May’s legendary guitar work created a stunning musical landscape, capturing the essence of Queen’s timeless music.
The climax of the performance, where Lambert and Fischer sang the iconic chorus together, was nothing short of spectacular. Recreating a moment that Freddie Mercury made his own is no easy feat, but Lambert and Fischer managed to deliver a tribute that was as powerful as it was heartfelt. Their voices soared together, supported by the driving force of May’s guitar, leaving the audience in awe.
The performance, filmed for The Helene Fischer Show in 2020, was met with widespread acclaim. The video, which quickly garnered millions of views on Fischer’s YouTube channel, further solidified Lambert’s place as a worthy successor to Freddie Mercury’s legacy. Fans praised the performance with comments such as “Helene and Adam, what a beautiful tribute to Queen and Freddie Mercury,” highlighting the seamless collaboration and vocal magic the pair created. Lambert’s voice was especially lauded for its incredible range, with one viewer commenting on its ability to reach “the stratosphere and then some.”
Lambert’s partnership with Queen, which began in 2012, has been a major success. Not only has he consistently impressed with his vocal abilities, but he has also shown a deep understanding and reverence for Queen’s music. The duo’s memorable performance of “Don’t Stop Me Now” at Buckingham Palace during the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II is another example of Lambert’s ability to bring new life to Queen’s music.
“Who Wants to Live Forever,” the sixth single from Queen’s A Kind of Magic album, has its roots in the soundtrack of the 1986 film Highlander, which has since become a cult classic. The track’s poignant lyrics, penned by Brian May, reflect the timelessness of Queen’s music, and its significance has only grown in the years since its release. Fans of Queen continue to regard it as one of the band’s finest songs, with Rolling Stone readers ranking it as the fifth-best Queen song in 2014.
What makes the song even more intriguing is its dual vocal interpretations. While Freddie Mercury is the primary vocalist on the film version, Brian May takes on the first verse in the album version. This subtle difference in the vocal arrangement adds layers of depth to the song, highlighting the versatility of Queen’s music and its ability to evolve.
In summary, the collaboration between Adam Lambert, Helene Fischer, and Queen for this rendition of “Who Wants to Live Forever” was a truly remarkable moment in the world of music. It paid tribute to the legacy of Freddie Mercury while showcasing the incredible talents of both Lambert and Fischer. Their performance was a masterclass in vocal harmony, emotional delivery, and musical collaboration, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
