Adam Lambert released his “Welcome to the Show” music video on Wednesday with a deeply personal essay for Flaunt Magazine. The song, a collaboration with the Swedish pop singer Laleh, is from the American Idol singer’s latest album The Original High.
In the essay, Adam describes “Welcome to the Show” as an anthem about “facing exactly who you are and owning it.” He talks about the diversity he’s seen in his audiences as he’s travelled the world on tour. “The common bond is that they are all human beings,” Adam explains. “No matter how we identify, the human heart has a universal set of emotions and needs.”
He cautions that labels can “empower and give us clarity” but can also be divisive. The struggle for self-love is not always easy, the singer confesses. “Living in a world filled with so much hatred sometimes makes cultivating self-love a very difficult task.” he says.
Adam adds: “Through my art, I pledge to bring empathy and courage to anyone who has been made to feel unworthy or ashamed while daring to be themselves.”
The video, an independent venture, was produced by Adam and his long-time friend, artist and photographer, Lee Cherry.
This is the first time I’ve produced my own music video. With the help of my friend and long- time collaborator Lee Cherry, we set out to co-direct something notably honest. I spoke with Laleh (the brilliant songwriter who is featured on the song) and we agreed on the vulnerability we wanted captured on screen. I think the more we as artists share ourselves openly, the more someone out there may feel inspired to do the same. I also felt a strong feeling of empowerment in creating this video independent of the label system. It was time to shoot this one on my own. This video isn’t about selling a song, or product placement, or racking up viral views. This is intended simply as a creative expression. What resulted on set came from a very free and organic headspace that allowed me to connect with the camera as if it were each person who’s supported me over the last 7 years. This video is a thank you to all of you who have lined up to see the Original High World Tour. To everyone who has listened and shared my songs and given me the purpose to keep moving forward. It’s a thank you to all of you who choose to accept and Love who YOU are! We hold each other up! I want you to keep celebrating exactly who you are, even if you don’t fit into the worlds ideas of what they think you should be. Take your flaws in stride, nurture your talents, take pride in your Queerness, and share all the love you have.”
Recently, Adam joined Guy Sebastian and Iggy Azalea on the X Factor Australia judges panel. The live shows air this fall. The singer will embark on an Asian tour as the lead singer for Queen in late September.
Check out Adam Lambert’s “Welcome to My Life” music video right here.
