When Adam Lambert Joined Roger Taylor for ‘Under Pressure’ — and Roger’s Son Suddenly Took the Drums
In 2012, Adam Lambert was still finding his feet as the new frontman of Queen when he delivered a memorable surprise at London’s Hammersmith Apollo.
During one of the band’s sold-out shows, Lambert invited Queen drummer Roger Taylor onto the stage for a special performance of “Under Pressure.” The two musicians sat together on the steps of the stage, creating an intimate moment that quickly became one of the highlights of the concert.
But Lambert had one more surprise for the audience.
Their last appearance before the COVID-19 pandemic was at the Fire Fight Australia concert in Sydney in February 2019 in aid of raising money and awareness for the Australian bushfire season (pictured). Picture: GettyHe revealed that Roger Taylor’s then-21-year-old son, Rufus Taylor, would also be joining them onstage to play the drums. Rufus would later become the drummer for The Darkness, making the performance an unexpected family affair.
Lambert had only recently begun performing with Queen. After appearing on American Idol in 2009 and impressing the band with his performance of Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love,” he first performed with Queen at the 2011 MTV Europe Music Awards before officially becoming their touring frontman.
The 2012 Hammersmith Apollo shows came shortly after Queen + Adam Lambert began their first European run, following performances in Kyiv, Moscow and Wrocław.
Since then, the collaboration has grown into a worldwide touring partnership, taking Queen + Adam Lambert across Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and North America.
That unforgettable night in London, however, remains particularly special — Adam Lambert, Roger Taylor and Roger’s son Rufus sharing one stage for a performance that turned “Under Pressure” into a genuine family moment.