Adam Lambert’s Iconic Performance Of “Believe” That Left Cher in Tears
Adam Lambert, former American Idol contestant and current lead vocalist for Queen, delivered a poignant rendition of Cher's famous 1998 song "Believe" at the 41st Annual Kennedy Center Honors in 2019, causing the legendary singer to cry. The yearly recognition event occurred on December 26, 2018, and was televised from the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C. This ceremony celebrates people for their lifelong artistic contributions. Lambert performed at the event to honor Cher, who was among the recipients.
His interpretation of "Believe" was emotional and slow-paced, quite different from the original upbeat dance track. The video showed a touched Cher drying her eyes while Lambert sang. Three weeks after the event, Cher still felt strongly about the performance, posting on Twitter that it was "BEYOND COMPREHENSION."
Cher wasn't the only star surprised at the Kennedy Center Honors. Music icon Cyndi Lauper, who had previously told Cher she wouldn't attend, shocked her with a performance of "If I Could Turn Back Time." Lauper and Lambert ended the show with a combined performance of "I Got You Babe."
During a conversation with Attitude magazine, Lambert shared thoughts about his memorable "Believe" performance. He admitted feeling extremely anxious before going on stage, with his pulse racing. Nevertheless, he expressed gratitude for the chance to sing a song by one of the most celebrated vocalists ever. Lambert enjoyed Cher's music after completing high school, and her 1998 album "Believe" was among his top choices.
This Kennedy Center tribute wasn't the first time Lambert impressed audiences by honoring music greats. In 2016, his exceptional voice paid tribute to George Michael on a TV program called "Greatest Hits," delivering an outstanding version of the 1987 hit "Faith." Viewers greatly admired both performances, leading many to call Lambert one of the finest singers of his era.
The Kennedy Center Honors represents one of the highest recognitions an American performer can receive. The ceremony, running for 44 years, celebrates individuals for their lifetime artistic achievements. Other 2018 recipients included country performer Reba McEntire, jazz musician Wayne Shorter, Philip Glass, and Lin-Manuel Miranda with the Hamilton team.
