Together again — twenty years after that legendary rooftop moment at Buckingham Palace. From the first stomp of “We Will Rock You,” it was less an opening act and more a royal thunderclap, rolling across London’s summer night. Adam Lambert’s fire met Brian May’s soaring guitar, while Roger Taylor’s drums beat like the unshakable pulse of a nation — each note thick with history and adrenaline. Around them, the Platinum Jubilee’s three glittering stages shone with Elton John, Diana Ross, Andrea Bocelli, and a chorus of global icons, but this was the spark that lit it all. By the final roar of “We Are the Champions,” 22,000 voices rose as one — breathless, united, and certain they had just seen history repeat itself in the grandest, most glorious way
On June 4, 2022, the historic façade of Buckingham Palace became the backdrop for a rock spectacle unlike any other, as Queen + Adam Lambert opened the Platinum Party at the Palace in celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 years on the throne.
The performance began with a touch of quintessential British charm — a pre-recorded skit featuring the Queen and Paddington Bear, their teacups clinking to the beat of “We Will Rock You.” Moments later, the iconic drum intro thundered across the grounds, with Roger Taylor keeping time and Brian May’s guitar slicing through the summer air.
Adam Lambert took the stage with commanding presence, launching into “Don’t Stop Me Now” and “We Are the Champions” with vocals that blended power and theatrical flair. Behind him, the palace was lit in a kaleidoscope of colors, while giant video screens captured every expression, every guitar lick, every triumphant note.
It was a homecoming of sorts for Brian May, who famously performed atop Buckingham Palace during the Golden Jubilee in 2002. This time, he ascended a towering platform beside the Queen Victoria Memorial, guitar in hand, delivering a soaring solo that sent the crowd into raptures.
The audience — a mix of 22,000 ticket holders, key workers, and special guests — waved Union Jacks, sang along, and reveled in the moment. The staging spanned three interconnected stages, with 70 illuminated columns symbolizing each year of the Queen’s reign.
As the final chords of “We Are the Champions” echoed through the London night, it was clear that this wasn’t just another concert — it was a unifying cultural moment. Queen + Adam Lambert had not only honored a monarch but had reminded the world of rock’s power to bring generations together under one anthem.
Watch the performance here: