Adam Lambert’s Emotional “Believe” Performance Leaves Cher Tearing Up

Adam Lambert, a former American Idol contestant and the current frontman for Queen, performed Cher’s legendary 1998 song “Believe” at the 41st Annual Kennedy Center Honors in 2019, bringing the iconic pop star to tears. The annual awards event, held on December 26, 2018, was broadcast from the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C., USA. The ceremony celebrates individuals for their lifetime contributions to the arts. Adam Lambert’s performance was a tribute to Cher, who was one of the esteemed honorees.

Lambert’s rendition of “Believe” was deeply emotional and ballad-like, offering a sharp contrast to the original’s upbeat and electrifying vibe. The camera captured Cher visibly moved, wiping away tears as Lambert sang. Three weeks later, Cher remained touched by the performance, sharing on Twitter that it was “BEYOND COMPREHENSION.”

Cher wasn’t the only performer to receive a surprise at the Kennedy Center Honors. Rock icon Cyndi Lauper, who had previously informed Cher that she was out of town, surprised her with a performance of “If I Could Turn Back Time.” Lauper and Lambert concluded the show with a duet of “I Got You Babe.”

In a recent interview with Attitude magazine, Lambert reflected on his memorable performance of “Believe.” He shared that he was extremely nervous before taking the stage, feeling his heart in his throat. Nonetheless, he felt honored to perform a song by one of the greatest singers of all time. Lambert has been a fan of Cher’s music since graduating high school, with her 1998 album “Believe” being one of his favorites.

Lambert’s performance at the Kennedy Center Honors is not the first time he has impressed audiences with a tribute to a music legend. In 2016, Lambert showcased his incredible vocals in a tribute to George Michael on a TV show called “Greatest Hits,” delivering another outstanding performance of the 1987 hit “Faith.” These performances have led fans to recognize Lambert as one of the best vocalists of his generation.

The Kennedy Center Honors is one of the highest accolades an American performer can receive. The awards ceremony, now in its 44th year, honors individuals for their lifetime achievements in the arts. Other honorees at the 2018 ceremony included country star Reba McEntire, jazz composer Wayne Shorter, Philip Glass, and Lin-Manuel Miranda along with the team from Hamilton.