Adam Lambert delivered an unexpectedly emotional performance of Cher’s iconic hit “Believe” that left the legendary singer visibly in tears.
Three years ago, Lambert performed the 1998 classic at the 41st Annual Kennedy Center Honors, completely reimagining the song as a stripped-down ballad.
Rather than recreate the upbeat, electronic energy of Cher’s original recording, Lambert slowed the song down and gave it a deeply personal, heartfelt treatment.
The result moved Cher so much that she could be seen wiping tears from both eyes as she watched from the audience.
Lambert Was Nervous About Performing Cher’s Hit
The performance was particularly meaningful for Lambert, who later admitted to Attitude Magazine that he had been extremely nervous beforehand.
Ironically, “Believe” was not unfamiliar territory for the former American Idol contestant. He had previously performed the song during the eighth season of the competition.
Still, singing it in front of Cher at one of the industry’s most prestigious ceremonies carried a very different weight.
After the ceremony, Cher took to Twitter to express her gratitude, explaining that she struggled to put into words how Lambert’s performance had made her feel.
Her reaction made clear just how deeply his interpretation of the song had affected her.
Cyndi Lauper Had Another Surprise for Cher
Lambert’s tribute was not the only emotional surprise waiting for Cher that night.
Rock icon Cyndi Lauper unexpectedly performed “If I Could Turn Back Time” for her. Lauper had previously told Cher that she would be out of town, making the appearance an even bigger surprise.
Lambert and Cher also took the stage together for a performance of “I Got You Babe.”
The combination of tributes and collaborations turned the ceremony into a memorable celebration of Cher’s career and musical legacy.
Lambert’s Career With Queen Continues
Outside of his solo work, Lambert has continued to perform with the legendary rock band Queen alongside Brian May and Roger Taylor.
At the time, Queen had announced The Rhapsody Tour, marking the band’s first tour since 2019. The North American leg was scheduled to feature 14 shows from October 4 through November 11.
Lambert said he remained excited every time he received the call about another tour.
“Every time I get the call we’re going to do another [tour], Whoo! I get excited!” he said.
He also praised the band’s audiences, noting that they continued to attract younger fans while bringing multiple generations together at their concerts.
Lambert’s collaboration with Queen had by then lasted nearly a decade. The upcoming shows were expected to feature a 150-minute set spanning major hits such as “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Somebody to Love,” alongside songs including “Don’t Stop Me Now” and “These Are the Days of Our Lives.”
Cher Was Also Working on New Music
While celebrating her legacy, Cher was continuing to pursue new projects of her own.
She had recently made headlines after appearing on the red carpet with music producer Alexander Edwards at the Versace fall 2023 fashion show at the Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles.
The pair appeared together at the event in March, with Cher, then 76, and Edwards, 37, posing for photographs.
During an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show in December, Cher acknowledged the unusual age difference between them but said the relationship worked in real life.
“On paper, it’s kind of ridiculous, but in real life, we get along great,” she said.
Edwards also revealed that the pair had met each other’s children and were working on music together.
Cher later told E! News that she planned to travel to England to work on two albums, including songs provided by Edwards.
“Some of the songs Alexander gave me, so I’m pretty excited about that,” she said. “He’s a producer and a writer and he does everything, so I’m happy about that. I think like any artist, when you’ve got something good, you’re excited.”
Cher’s Next Chapter
Cher was also set to appear on Dolly Parton’s forthcoming album, Rock Star, alongside artists including Paul McCartney, Stevie Nicks and Steven Tyler.
The project was expected to feature covers of classic rock songs by artists such as Prince, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
But among all of Cher’s ongoing musical projects, Lambert’s emotional rendition of “Believe” remains a particularly memorable tribute — not only because he transformed one of her biggest hits, but because his interpretation moved the woman who originally made the song famous to tears.