King Charles Shares His Eclectic Music Playlist, Featuring Beyoncé, Bob Marley, and Kylie Minogue
King Charles has revealed his diverse musical tastes in a specially curated playlist for The King’s Music Room, a show premiering on Apple Music on March 10. At 76, the monarch showcases an eclectic mix of artists, ranging from pop icons like Beyoncé and Kylie Minogue to reggae legend Bob Marley and jazz singer Grace Jones.
The playlist, inspired by a Commonwealth theme, reflects Charles’ personal selections and offers a glimpse into his musical enthusiasm. With his engaging commentary, listeners also get to appreciate his charming radio voice.
A Royal Connection to Music
King Charles highlights his admiration for artists like Beyoncé and Kylie Minogue, recognizing their contributions to The King’s Trust (formerly The Prince’s Trust). He also recalls his visit to the Caribbean, where he met Bob Marley and his widow, Rita Marley. Additionally, he reminisces about watching British singer Raye perform at Apple HQ in Battersea, sparking his interest in her music.
Notable Songs on the Playlist
- Bob Marley & The Wailers – “Could You Be Loved”
Charles introduces the song with a version played by the King’s Guard at Buckingham Palace before transitioning to Marley’s original. He praises Marley’s “infectious energy, deep sincerity, and profound concern for his community.” - Millie Small – “My Boy Lollipop”
The King honors the Jamaican-born singer, a member of the Windrush Generation, for her contributions to British music. - Kylie Minogue – “The Loco-Motion”
Charles describes this track as “music for dancing,” noting its “infectious energy” and irresistible joy. - Al Bowlly – “The Very Thought of You”
This classic from the 1920s-30s reminds Charles of his beloved grandmother and “never fails to lift [his] spirits.” - Grace Jones – “La Vie En Rose”
The King and Queen Camilla have known Grace Jones for some time, and he recently saw her at a reception at St. James’s Palace. He asks, “Is it possible to improve on such a classic song?” - Raye – “Love Me Again”
Charles calls Raye “a great ambassador for British music.” - Daddy Lumba – “Mpempem Do Me”
Reflecting on his 2018 visit to Ghana, Charles admits he “found [himself] dancing along” to this track. - Davido – “KANTE” (feat. Fave)
The King expresses his love for Pidgin English, which he once attempted to use in a speech in Nigeria. He acknowledges Afrobeats’ growing global influence. - Miriam Makeba – “The Click Song”
Charles highlights the song’s Xhosa lyrics and humorously admits, “I shan’t try too much to pronounce the title, as it requires a great deal of practice!” - Jools Holland & Ruby Turner – “My Country Man”
Charles speaks fondly of longtime friend Jools Holland and the “unstoppable phenomenon” Ruby Turner. - Anoushka Shankar – “Indian Summer”
The King appreciates the sitar melodies, calling them “deeply redolent of the ancient culture of India.” - Siti Nurhaliza – “Anta Permana”
He highlights the Malaysian artist’s song about “love that is stronger than time.” - Dame Kiri Te Kanawa – “E Te Iwi E (Call To The People)”
The opera legend performed this song at Charles’ wedding to Princess Diana, making it especially meaningful. - Michael Bublé – “Haven’t Met You Yet”
Representing Canada, Bublé is Charles’ choice for the Commonwealth nation. The singer recently dined with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Vancouver. - Arrow – “Hot, Hot, Hot”
Recalling his visit to Montserrat, Charles quips, “When I last visited the island, it certainly was.”
With such a varied selection, The King’s Music Room offers a unique insight into King Charles’ personal musical influences, blending nostalgia with contemporary hits.