London, Feb 21: Adam Lambert is to sing vocals for iconic British band Queen as they headline the second day of Sonisphere 2012.
The former “American Idol” singer will step into the late Freddie Mercury's shoes for the band's full set at the U.K. rock festival, on July 7th at Knebworth Park, Stevenage.
Queen's Brian May and Roger Taylor confirmed the one off collaboration today.
The Sonisphere show marks the third time Lambert has sung with the landmark band, following an eight minute set at the recent MTV Europe Awards to celebrate Queen's Global Icon Award, and a performance of “We Are the Champions” on “American Idol” in 2009.
“It's great, they are the coolest guys and they are so down to earth,” Lambert told AP Entertainment earlier this month.
“They are very sweet and just to be up there doing this music is such an honor. Freddie Mercury was a hero to me and his voice, his song writing and being gay, the whole package is amazing.”
Freddie Mercury's final concert with Queen also took place at Knebworth, in August 1986.
“I am no way trying to copy or mimic or replace Freddie or do what he did, that would be insulting to his memory and to the fans that hold him in such high regard,” said Lambert.
“I am just paying tribute. I am excited to sing the songs that he wrote and to try to give them some sort of flare that he would appreciate.”
