Adam Lambert’s Iconic Performance of “Believe” Leaves Cher in Tears

At the 41st Annual Kennedy Center Honors, Adam Lambert delivered a tribute to Cher by performing her 1998 hit “Believe.” The source identifies the appearance as a 2019 performance. Lambert, an American Idol alumnus and Queen’s current frontman, took part because Cher was one of that year’s recipients.

The ceremony was broadcast from an opera-house venue in Washington, D.C., at the Kennedy Center, with December 26, 2018 given as its date. The annual event recognizes lifetime artistic achievement and is described as one of the highest distinctions available to an American performer. According to the source, the Kennedy Center Honors had been held for 44 years.

Rather than following the original recording’s upbeat, electric approach, Lambert recast “Believe” as a heartfelt ballad. As he performed, the broadcast camera showed Cher becoming visibly emotional and wiping tears from her face.

Cher continued to praise the rendition after the event. Three weeks later, she wrote on Twitter that it was “BEYOND COMPREHENSION.” Lambert subsequently discussed the appearance in an interview with Attitude magazine, saying he had been exceptionally nervous beforehand and felt his heart was in his throat.

Watch the full performance on page two