Adam Lambert, a name synonymous with powerhouse vocals and theatrical performances, first captured global attention with his breathtaking rendition of “Mad World” on American Idol. While he finished as runner-up to Kris Allen in Season 8, Lambert was clearly destined for a remarkable career. Since then, he has released four studio albums brimming with arena-rock anthems and pop gems, heavily infused with the glam and energy of the 1980s. In celebration of his impressive musical journey, we delve into Adam Lambert’s top 10 songs that have defined his post-Idol success.
10. “Another Lonely Night”
From his third album, 2015’s The Original High, “Another Lonely Night” showcases a more restrained yet equally powerful side of Lambert’s vocal prowess. This synth-pop ballad evokes the melancholic vibes of 80s radio hits, highlighting emotional depth and vulnerability amidst a polished production. The song’s introspective lyrics and catchy melody resonated with fans, solidifying its place as a standout track in his discography.
9. “Two Fux”
“Two Fux,” a 2017 standalone single, serves as a bold anthem of individuality and artistic freedom, core tenets of Adam Lambert’s persona. This glam-rock infused track, with its defiant attitude and catchy chorus, epitomizes Lambert’s unapologetic approach to music and life. He even debuted this electrifying song with Queen during a special performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, further cementing his rockstar status.
8. “Shady” (feat. Nile Rodgers & Sam Sparro)
“Shady,” a gem from the 2012 album Trespassing, demonstrates Lambert’s versatility beyond glam rock and pop. Collaborating with disco legend Nile Rodgers and Sam Sparro, Lambert ventures into a unique brand of funk. The song’s infectious groove, coupled with Lambert’s soaring vocals and the distinct funk guitar riffs of Nile Rodgers, creates an irresistible and sophisticated soundscape.
7. “Welcome To The Show” (feat. Laleh)
Released as a powerful single in 2016, “Welcome To The Show” revisits the theatrical grandeur of Lambert’s debut single, “For Your Entertainment,” but with a more mature and anthemic feel. Featuring Swedish artist Laleh, this power ballad combines soaring vocals with uplifting lyrics about embracing life’s spectacle. The collaboration brought a new dimension to Lambert’s sound, emphasizing both his vocal strength and his capacity for emotional resonance.
6. “Never Close Our Eyes”
“Never Close Our Eyes,” a club-ready anthem from his sophomore album Trespassing (2012), is known for its high-energy synth beats and memorable melody. The music video, depicting a prison revolt in a dystopian setting, perfectly complements the song’s themes of breaking free and embracing individuality. Interestingly, this dance-pop hit was co-written and co-produced by Bruno Mars and The Smeezingtons, showcasing Lambert’s ability to blend his rock sensibilities with pop trends.
5. “For Your Entertainment”
“Do you know what you got into?” This iconic opening line from “For Your Entertainment” marked Adam Lambert’s explosive entry into the post-Idol music scene. As his debut single, it delivered on the promise of his American Idol performances, showcasing his theatrical flair and vocal command. The song is a bold statement of artistic intent, daring listeners to witness the spectacle he brings, and solidified his image as a confident and captivating performer.
4. “Trespassing”
The title track from his 2012 album Trespassing is instantly recognizable for its stomping, clapping rhythm, reminiscent of Queen’s “Another One Bites the Dust.” This glam-rock anthem highlights Lambert’s ability to merge classic rock influences with a modern pop sensibility. Notably, just two years after its release, Lambert began his ongoing collaboration with Queen, touring as Queen + Adam Lambert, a partnership that feels foreshadowed by this very song.
3. “If I Had You”
“If I Had You,” a glitzy and infectious single from his 2009 debut album, perfectly captures the yearning for love and connection. This track became an instant fan favorite, known for its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and Lambert’s charismatic delivery. The song’s glam-rock energy and themes of longing resonated widely, becoming a staple in his live performances and a defining song early in his solo career. It remains one of his most explosively fun and glittery hits.
2. “Ghost Town”
“Ghost Town,” with its distinctive yippee-ki-yay whistle intro, stands as Adam Lambert’s most commercially successful solo hit. This track blends elements of electronic music with Western-inspired sounds, creating a unique and memorable sonic landscape. While the song’s use of Auto-Tune is debated by some, its undeniable catchiness and broad appeal propelled it to mainstream success, showcasing Lambert’s ability to innovate and experiment with different genres.
Adam Lambert on The Kelly Clarkson Show discussing his career
1. “Whataya Want From Me”
Topping our list is “Whataya Want From Me,” a powerful ballad penned by P!nk. From Lambert’s debut album For Your Entertainment (2009), this song is not only his most recognizable hit but also his highest-charting single in the US, reaching No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Whataya Want From Me” is a masterclass in vocal delivery, with its plaintive verses building to a sky-high chorus, showcasing the full range and emotion of Lambert’s voice. Its universal themes of vulnerability and self-acceptance, combined with its undeniable melodic strength, have cemented its place as Adam Lambert’s signature song.
Adam Lambert’s career is a testament to his incredible talent and versatility. These top 10 songs are just a glimpse into his impressive discography, highlighting his evolution as an artist and his enduring impact on contemporary music. From glam rock anthems to heartfelt ballads, Adam Lambert’s songs continue to captivate and entertain audiences worldwide.
