Adam Lambert's 7 Best 'Idol' Performances

I have a confession to make: I didn’t watch Season 8 of American Idol — a.k.a. the season Adam Lambert was robbed and took second place to the talented but lackluster Kris Allen. (Apparently, even Allen thinks Lambert deserved to win!) I became disillusioned with the show after Taylor Hicks claimed victory in 2006 (can you blame me?) and stopped tuning in… but you better believe I went back and watched Season 8 online as soon as I heard Lambert's music on the radio for the first time. “How on Earth did this guy not win??” I asked myself at the time/am still asking myself every day. It’s a mystery. Thankfully, it all worked out in the end. With his new single, “Ghost Town,” premiering on April 21 (and his new album, The Original High, coming out this summer), now is the perfect time to revisit Adam Lambert’s best American Idol performances.

If you ask me, Lambert is one of Idol’s most memorable contestants. His stage presence, creativity, and unique sense of style were unmatched during Season 8. Oh, and he was a pretty incredible vocalist, too. (He still is, of course. In fact, I think he's gotten even better, if you can believe it!)

Check out the now 33-year-old singer’s seven finest American Idol moments below. Who knows? Watching them might just make the agonizing wait for “Ghost Town” a teensy bit easier.

Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody"

Lambert's audition is impeccable — he shows so much range in just 21 seconds! It's definitely one of the best auditions in Idol history.

The Miracles' "The Tracks of My Tears"

Sometimes, less is more. (That's actually Lambert's new motto, by the way.)

Aerosmith's "Cryin'"

Everything Lambert does from the 2:10 mark on is nothing short of astonishing.

U2's "One"

That note at the 1:17 mark! Wow.

Yvonne Elliman's "If I Can't Have You"

When Lambert hits the chorus, I get chills.

Wild Cherry's "Play That Funky Music"

Lambert is on fire during this performance! I think it's extremely difficult to pull off a big up-tempo song live, but he nails it. He looks like he's having a blast.

Tears for Fears' "Mad World"

There's really only one word to describe Lambert's rendition of "Mad World": unforgettable.

Image: lambertgifs.co.vu/Tumblr