In 2009, Adam Lambert, a singer, appeared on American Idol. When he returned to the competition as a guest judge in 2015, he was asked to perform Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody to commemorate his initial audition.

Nobody had heard of Adam Lambert before. This was before the hesitant young artist decided to audition in front of Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, and Simon Cowell. Despite the fact that this was the performer’s first public appearance, he chose the dangerous song Bohemian Rhapsody.

Few singers can equal Freddie Mercury’s range on the iconic Queen song, which is notoriously difficult to recreate. He had to do it a cappella, which added to the difficulty. Lambert overcame his tremors to deliver a superb performance.

The unplanned performance thrilled Queen’s two surviving members, Brian May and Roger Taylor, according to Rolling Stone. Lambert joined the band in 2011, and as you’re probably aware, he’s been its frontman for the majority of the last 10 years. According to the band’s website, they are now on tour with their aptly named “Rhapsody Tour,” which will take them across Europe.

Lambert has been leading this storied classic rock band for the most of his life, yet he still makes time for some extracurricular pursuits. Because of Whataya Want from Me, he received a Grammy Award nomination, and he made history by becoming the first openly gay singer to top the Billboard 200 chart.

Lambert’s comeback as a guest judge on American Idol in 2015 was possibly his most entertaining side project. He was standing in for Keith Urban as the country artist was mourning the death of his father-in-law. Before Lambert, no former participant had ever gained the privilege to return as a judge.

When they were both seated next to him, Harry Connick Jr. remarked that he was unable to analyze Lambert’s original audition. After initially brushing off the comments for giggles, Lambert learned that his fellow judge wasn’t making jokes. In response, he stood up and carried out a full-fledged retaliation. He even reprised his old slogan, “I ain’t scared,” before launching into his song.

As you can see, Lambert has always had the genuine showman’s spirit. It’s incredible to consider that this young man was merely attempting to go on from the preliminary round of a television singing competition. He currently plays lead vocals for the band whose song helped him get a job. There has never been a rise to superstardom like this, and Lambert is the only person more deserving of it.

Watch his performance here: