The King’s Playlist: A Celebration of Music and Commonwealth
King Charles III, a lifelong enthusiast of classical music and a skilled player of the cello, piano, and trumpet, recently delighted music lovers by releasing a diverse and eclectic playlist. Featuring 17 artists from around the world, including global icons like Beyoncé, Bob Marley, and Grace Jones, the playlist reflects the king’s deep appreciation for music’s universal power to evoke emotions, spark memories, and unite people across cultures. Released on Commonwealth Day, celebrated on the second Monday in March, the playlist serves as a heartfelt tribute to the 56-nation Commonwealth, of which King Charles is the head. MUSIC, the king remarked in a podcast on Apple Music titled The King’s Music Room, has “that remarkable ability to bring happy memories flooding back from the deepest recesses of our memory, to comfort us in times of sadness, and to take us to distant places.”
A Playlist for the Commonwealth
The playlist, compiled to coincide with Commonwealth Day, is a thoughtful selection of songs that not only highlight the rich musical heritage of Commonwealth nations but also reveal King Charles’s personal connection to certain artists and tracks. While the majority of the artists featured are from the Commonwealth, the king made room for a few exceptions whose music holds a special place in his heart. The playlist is a celebration of both diversity and unity, reflecting the shared values of the Commonwealth and the enduring power of music to bring people together. It’s also a nod to the king’s own musical journey, shaped by his studies of the cello, piano, and trumpet, which have instilled in him a profound respect for the art form.
Musical Memories and Personal Connections
In his podcast, King Charles shared some of the stories behind his song choices, offering listeners a glimpse into his personal connection to the music. For instance, he recalled a 2018 visit to Ghana, a Commonwealth nation, where he danced to the music of Ghanaian singer Daddy Lumba. The king included Lumba’s “Mpempem Do Me” in his playlist, a testament to the joy and energy of African music. Another highlight is the inclusion of Miriam Makeba’s “The Click Song,” a iconic track by the South African singer known as “Mama Africa.” Makeba, a prominent opponent of apartheid, left an indelible mark on global music, and her song’s rhythmic complexity and cultural significance clearly resonate with the king.
Dancing Through the Decades
King Charles’s playlist is not just a collection of songs; it’s a journey through time and across genres. Tracks like Diana Ross’s “Upside Down” and Kylie Minogue’s “The Loco-Motion” bring a nostalgic energy to the mix, evoking memories of dancing and carefree moments. “When I was much younger, it was absolutely impossible not to get up and dance when it was played,” the king shared about Ross’s 1980 hit. Minogue’s rendition of “The Loco-Motion,” which she performed at St. James’s Palace in 2012, is described by the king as “music for dancing” with an “infectious energy.” These selections reveal a lighter side of the monarch, showing that even at 76, he retains a youthful spirit and appreciation for music’s ability to move and inspire.
A Legacy of Music and Commonwealth Unity
The playlist also reflects the king’s collaborative spirit, as he may have sought input from Errollyn Wallen, a Belize-born artist who serves as the Master of the King’s Music. This honorary role, established during the reign of King Charles I in the 17th century, underscores the long-standing connection between music and the British monarchy. Wallen’s expertise likely contributed to the playlist’s diversity and depth, ensuring that it represents the richness of Commonwealth cultures. By releasing this playlist, King Charles continues to champion the arts and promote unity among the Commonwealth’s member states, using music as a universal language to foster connection and understanding.
The King’s Music Room: A Podcast with a Purpose
To accompany the playlist, King Charles recorded a podcast at Buckingham Palace, offering listeners a rare opportunity to hear him share his thoughts on music and its impact on his life. The podcast, titled The King’s Music Room, is a warm and intimate conversation that highlights the king’s passion for music and its role in shaping his experiences. From memories of dancing to Daddy Lumba in Ghana to reflections on Miriam Makeba’s legacy, the podcast provides a personal and engaging perspective on the playlist’s selections. It also serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music to transcend borders and bring people together, a theme that resonates deeply with the Commonwealth’s mission of unity and cooperation.
In conclusion, King Charles III’s playlist is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a celebration of music’s universal power to inspire, comfort, and unite. Released on Commonwealth Day, it reflects the king’s deep appreciation for the arts and his commitment to fostering connection among the diverse nations of the Commonwealth. By sharing his personal stories and memories, King Charles invites listeners to experience the magic of music through his eyes, creating a sense of togetherness that transcends borders and generations.
