Adam Lambert’s Moving “Believe” Cover Has Cher Wiping Away Tears

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

Lambert’s rendition of “Believe” was sincere and ballad-like, markedly different from the original’s lively and electric vibe. The camera captured Cher visibly moved, wiping away tears as Lambert sang. Three weeks after the performance, Cher remained touched, tweeting that it was “BEYOND COMPREHENSION.”

Cher wasn’t the only performer to be caught off guard at the Kennedy Center Honors. Rock icon Cyndi Lauper, who had previously informed Cher she would be 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 shared his thoughts on his memorable performance of “Believe.” He mentioned feeling extremely nervous before taking the stage, with his heart racing. Nonetheless, he expressed it was an honor to perform a song by one of the most legendary singers ever. Lambert had been a fan of Cher’s music since graduating high school, and her 1998 album, “Believe,” was among his favorites.

Lambert’s appearance at the Kennedy Center Honors is not the first time he has amazed audiences with tributes to music legends. In 2016, Lambert showcased his exceptional vocals in a tribute to George Michael on a TV show called “Greatest Hits,” delivering another impressive performance with the 1987 hit “Faith.” Fans were highly impressed with both renditions, leading to Lambert being regarded as one of the top vocalists of his generation.

The Kennedy Center Honors is one of the highest accolades an American performer can receive. The awards ceremony, which has been held for 44 years, recognizes individuals for their lifetime contributions to the arts. Other honorees at the 2018 event included country star Reba McEntire, jazz composer Wayne Shorter, Philip Glass, and Lin-Manuel Miranda along with the team from Hamilton.