Adam Lambert is shifting toward an industrial sound and independent ownership with his sixth studio album, Adam, released July 10. According to Lambert, the project marks his first collection of original material since 2020’s Velvet and is issued via his own label, More Is More, with distribution through The Orchard.
Why did Adam Lambert start his own record label?
Lambert founded More Is More to gain full creative control and improve his financial position. He stated that working with major labels, such as RCA, often involved “fear-based” input and conflicting opinions on his creative direction. By moving to an indie model, Lambert claims he can better serve his fan base, asserting that he knows what his audience responds to better than label executives.
How has the “streaming era” changed music gatekeeping?
The music industry has shifted from a radio-centric model to a data-driven streaming environment. Lambert noted that when he debuted in 2009 with For Your Entertainment, a handful of gatekeepers decided who received backing, and radio research took a month to complete. Today, streaming provides instant, quantifiable demographics and listener data.
While Lambert describes this shift as a “science” that removes some of the mystery of a release, he says it validates what the public actually wants. He contrasted this with his early career as a visible LGBTQ artist in the American pop circuit, which he described as the “Wild West” due to a lack of gay male peers in the mainstream radio space.
What is the sonic direction of the album Adam?
The album features a “heavy, monolithic” industrial sound inspired by Lambert’s move from Los Angeles to New York. He told interviewer Charlotte Krol that the urban environment of New York pushed him toward a denser sound than the “hills of Hollywood.”
To achieve this, Lambert assembled a specific creative team:
- Jess Thomas: Head of A&R at 100 Management Inc, who helped define the album’s direction via curated playlists.
- Pete Nappi: Executive producer who previously worked with Lambert on the track “Face” from the Afters EP.
- Trey Campbell: A primary songwriter and vocal producer who Lambert credited with helping him manage his perfectionism.
Will there be a full tour or a return to Queen?
Lambert is currently performing a short promotional tour consisting of four shows in Los Angeles, New York, London, and Berlin, including a date at London’s Roundhouse on July 21. He expressed a desire to launch a more expanded, fully realized tour to perform the new material.
Regarding a potential return to touring with Queen, Lambert stated he has not heard of any current plans but would “love to do it” if the band decides to go back out again.
Comparison: Major Label vs. Independent Model
| Feature | Major Label (e.g., RCA) | Independent (More Is More) |
|---|---|---|
| Creative Control | Subject to label input/opinions | Artist in the “driver’s seat” |
| Financials | Standard corporate splits | Described by Lambert as “more ideal” |
| Decision Making | Gatekeeper-led | Data-driven and fan-focused |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Adam Lambert’s new album released?
The album Adam is released on Friday, July 10.
Who is the executive producer of the album Adam?
Pete Nappi serves as the executive producer for the project.
What is the name of Adam Lambert’s record label?
His independent label is called More Is More, with distribution supported by The Orchard.
Is Adam Lambert touring with Queen again?
There are currently no planned tours with Queen, though Lambert stated he would be open to it if the band decides to return to the road.
What inspired the sound of the new album?
Lambert’s relocation from Los Angeles to New York inspired a more industrial, urban, and “monolithic” sonic direction.
What do you think of the shift toward independent labels for established pop stars? Does creative freedom outweigh the marketing power of a major label? Let us know in the comments or subscribe to our newsletter for more industry insights.
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