By Kashifa Wisal
King Charles III unveiled a personal playlist of songs close to his heart, including music from iconic acts from across the globe. “The King’s Music Room” playlist comprises reggae icon Bob Marley’s music, as well as music from pop superstar Kylie Minogue and Nigerian-American singer Davido, along with a selection of other musical greats from across the Commonwealth.
The monarch, in collaboration with Apple Music, will release the playlist on worldwide radio stations to mark Commonwealth Day, broadcast on Monday and Tuesday.
The king’s 76-year-old set is a disparate collection, crafted to represent the rich musical tapestry of the Commonwealth, running the gamut from Marley’s reggae anthems to Minogue’s dance floor bangers and newer additions from performers such as British singer Raye.
In one of the trailers for the initiative, King Charles is shown sitting at a desk in Buckingham Palace with a “on air” sign, highlighting the importance of music in his life. “Music has been very important to me throughout my life,” he says in the clip. “I know that is also the case for so many others. It has the 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.”
The playlist, which covers music across decades, features artists in the 1930s, modern Afrobeats icons, and more. Apple Music called the tracklist a “celebration of the Commonwealth” and the along with rich musical heritage. In his commentary, King Charles speaks about his experiences of meeting some of the artists who feature in it, and describes the deep personal connection between the music and memories it stirs in him.
For the King, music has always been a strong force in making people happy and raising spirits. “But perhaps, more than anything, it can raise our spirits to such an extent, and all the more so when it unites us in celebration. In other words, it makes us happy,” he continues in his message to listeners.
The King’s Music Room will be aired at 6 a.m. GMT on March 10, on Apple Music 1. Featuring performances by artists from around the Commonwealth, it will be an exclusive and moving musical experience, distilling both the monarch’s recollections and the dynamic richness of the Commonwealth countries.