LS ‘“I Sing the Songs of Queen” — The Surprising Reason Brian May Chose Adam Lambert Over 10 Other Vocalists to Continue Freddie Mercury’s Legacy’

OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.

When Freddie Mercury passed away in 1991, Queen’s surviving members—guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor—were certain of one thing: no one could ever replace him. For years, they refused to tour under the Queen name, believing Freddie’s presence was irreplaceable.

But two decades later, everything changed—thanks to one extraordinary voice.

As Brian May later revealed, Adam Lambert wasn’t just another singer; out of ten serious contenders, he was the only one who captured the “soul and daring” that made Freddie immortal.

“I sing the songs of Queen,” Lambert once said humbly, “but I’ll never be Freddie. No one can. I just try to do them justice.”

And that, May says, was exactly what convinced him.

The Search for a Voice Worthy of a Legend

After Freddie’s death, Queen tried collaborating with several vocalists, including George Michael and Paul Rodgers. Each brought immense talent and respect, but something always felt missing.

“We tried, we explored,” May explained. “But it’s not just about hitting notes—it’s about spirit. Freddie had this fearless theatricality, complete emotional honesty. That’s what we needed—and that’s what Adam had.”

May and Taylor first saw Lambert perform “Bohemian Rhapsody” on the 2009 American Idol finale, and they were blown away.

“He had this unbelievable range, but it wasn’t just technique,” May recalled. “It was attitude—the mix of power and vulnerability that Freddie had. Roger and I just looked at each other and said, ‘That’s him.’”

Ten Singers, One Connection

In the years after Mercury’s death, Queen’s team received countless offers from world-renowned vocalists hoping to fill Freddie’s impossible shoes.

“There were famous names—legends,” May said. “But nobody felt right. It always felt like someone playing Freddie instead of someone singing Queen.”

Lambert, however, never tried to imitate.

“He didn’t come in pretending to be Freddie,” May said. “He came in as Adam—confident, flamboyant, and respectful. That honesty was what sealed it for me.”

Respect Over Replacement

When Lambert joined Queen for a short set at the 2011 MTV Europe Music Awards, some fans were skeptical. Could anyone carry Freddie’s legacy without diminishing it?

Lambert’s answer was simple: by not trying to replace him.

“Freddie’s a god to me,” Lambert said. “I’m not standing in for him—I’m standing with him, in spirit.”

That humility struck a chord with May.

“He’s never tried to fill Freddie’s shoes,” May said. “He dances next to them. That’s why Freddie would have loved him.”

The Moment It Became Clear

Their first full tour together in 2014—Queen + Adam Lambert—was a game-changer. Sold-out arenas, rave reviews, and generations of fans singing along proved May’s instinct was right.

“We realized then—this works,” May said. “It’s not nostalgia. It’s a continuation.”

May describes the partnership as “new energy in an old flame.”

“Every night, Adam brings fire, precision, and playfulness,” he said. “It’s like Freddie’s spirit is in the room, smiling.”

“Freddie Lives in the Songs—Adam Keeps Them Alive”

When asked if he believes Freddie would approve, May didn’t hesitate.

“Freddie would’ve loved Adam,” he said. “He had great respect for individuality, for anyone bold enough to be themselves. Adam has that—fearlessness, joy, and compassion.”

And though Lambert carries the torch, he never forgets whose fire it is.

“I sing the songs of Queen,” Lambert said. “But they’ll always belong to Freddie, to Brian, to Roger, and to every fan who ever sang along.”

The Legacy Continues

After more than a decade together, Queen + Adam Lambert have sold out arenas worldwide, headlined Live Aid tributes, and even recorded new music—something May once swore he’d never do again.

“Adam gave us new life,” May said. “He reminded us these songs aren’t just memories—they’re living, breathing things. Freddie’s heartbeat is still in every note.”

For Brian May, choosing Adam Lambert wasn’t about replacing the past—it was about reigniting it.

“Freddie was one of a kind,” May said softly. “But if anyone can keep his light shining, it’s Adam. He’s the real deal. He sings the songs of Queen—and makes them soar again.”