Adam Lambert to release album of 80s covers?
Credit: Getty Images
It might be a "Mad World" after all for American Idol alum Adam Lambert.
The Hollywood Reporter has the inside track on what could be Lambert's follow-up to 2012's Trespassing, as their sources report that Lambert’s label, RCA Records, is pushing for an all-80s cover album.
The studio must think the record has the potential to be a big seller, and I'm not sure I blame them for thinking so, given how Lambert's cover of Tears for Fears' "Mad World" on season eight of American Idol was one of the most successful Idol studio singles ever, charting at #19 on the US charts and #10 on the Canadian charts. The concept of an all-covers album makes even more sense when considering the disappointing sales for Trespassing. Though the album sold a respectable 185,000 copies, the number is roughly a fifth of what his 2009 debut, For Your Entertainment, sold.
However, several factors should to be taken into consideration when ascertaining why the album underperformed, as fans and insiders alike have cited a general lack of online advertising, radio play, and tour support as factors in the underwhelming sales numbers. A source within the label acknowledges that while enthusiasm was lacking for Lambert's Trespassing, the studio feels it could really invest in an all-covers album, particularly if the executives are given greater input on elements such as song selection and cover art.
As for Lambert's 80s influences, the singer has dug deeper into the Tears for Fears catalogue. At a July 3 performance at Hollywood club Playhouse, which also served as a fundraiser for the Trevor Project, Lambert took on the band's huge 1985 hit “Shout”.
When asked at the event whether rumors of an all-covers album had any validity, Lambert remained coy, stating, "Rumors are funny little things, aren't they?" A reporter then asked which song best defined the 80s, to which Lambert answered "Shout," another Tears for Fears hit, which he covered at a July 3 performance at Hollywood Club Playhouse, which also served as a fundraiser event for the Trevor Project. While being interviewed by the reporter, the singer asserted his fandom, stating, "Tears for Fears are pretty amazing."
A Lambert representative told The Hollywood Reporter that “Nothing has been determined yet” but confirms the idea of a concept album of cover songs from a different era is under consideration.
RCA Records, however, offered no comment.
So what do you think about the concept of an all-80s cover album? Sound off in the comments!