Queen + Adam Lambert have released a live version of classic Queen single ‘The Show Must Go On’. Filmed at London’s O2 Arena in 2018, the performance will feature in their upcoming live album ‘Live Around The World’.

‘The Show Must Go On’ was originally released as the final track on Queen’s Innuendo album, and was recorded while Freddie Mercury was already in the final stages of his battle with AIDS.

Speaking about the song in a press release, guitarist Brian May said, “Even though we were all aware of Freddie’s impending tragedy, we had some inspired and joyful times in the studio, making the Innuendo album.  We didn’t speak much about Freddie’s illness – he just wanted to get on with ‘business as usual’ as far as possible.

“The melody called for some very demanding top notes, and I’d only been able to ‘demo’ them in falsetto.  I said to Freddie … “I don’t want you strain yourself – this stuff isn’t going to be easy in full voice, even for you!”  He said, “Don’t worry – I’ll f…ing nail it, Darling!”.  He then downed a couple of his favourite shots of vodka, propped himself up against the mixing desk, and… delivered one of the most extraordinary performances of his life.

In the final mix of TSMGO, when you get to “On with the Show” you are listening to a man who conquered everything to deliver his finest work.”

Adam Lambert, who has sung with Queen since his time on American Idol in 2009, noted the emotive depth of the song: “The Show Must Go On’ is a song with a very deeply resonating message.  I think we all have moments in life where we feel the odds are against us and the climb is a steep one.

I always sense a great cathartic release throughout the audience during this song.  I think we all recognize that it was a big statement for Freddie at that point in his journey as well: He was fighting for his life.”

Queen + Adam Lambert announced the release of the live album last week, which is set for release on October 2.