No One Expected This From King Charles

King Charles III, July, 2023. Photo courtesy of The White House. Public domain.

King Charles is stepping into a new role - one that no one saw coming. The monarch has teamed up with Apple^® Music to curate a playlist featuring some of his favorite songs, ranging from Beyoncé to Bob Marley. This special collaboration marks a fresh and modern way for the King to connect with the public, all while celebrating Commonwealth Day.

A Royal Playlist With a Personal Touch

King Charles’ playlist isn’t just a random selection of songs - it’s a reflection of his personal music taste, memories, and the diverse cultures within the Commonwealth. As head of the Commonwealth, a coalition of 56 countries including Australia, Canada, India, and Kenya, the King has long emphasized the importance of unity and cultural appreciation. His playlist serves as a musical tribute to these connections, featuring classic hits from artists like Bob Marley, Barbra Streisand, and Diana Ross, along with newer names like Beyoncé.

The timing of this playlist is no coincidence. On March 10, King Charles led the royal family, including Prince William and Kate Middleton, during a service at Westminster Abbey to mark Commonwealth Day. Charles sees the playlist as a modern way to bring people together through music, describing the project as “such an interesting and innovative way to celebrate this year’s Commonwealth Day,” according to PEOPLE. His choices highlight a blend of nostalgia and modernity, appealing to a wide audience.

The King’s Surprising Music Taste

Many might expect King Charles to favor traditional or classical music, but his playlist proves otherwise. The selection features reggae, pop, and even R&B, showing a side of the King that fans rarely see. With hits like Marley’s “Could You Be Loved,” Kylie Minogue’s version of “The Loco-Motion,” and Beyonce’s “Crazy in Love,” the playlist reveals a mix of upbeat and heartfelt tunes.

In his opening broadcast from his desk at Buckingham Palace, King Charles reflects on the deep emotional impact of music. “Throughout my life, music has meant a great deal to me,” he said, explaining how songs have the power to bring back cherished memories, provide comfort during difficult times, and even transport listeners to different places. More than anything, he emphasizes music’s ability to lift spirits and bring people together in celebration. “In other words, it brings us joy,” as reported by PEOPLE.

‘The King’s Music Room’ Features:
- Al Bowlly – “The Very Thought of You”
- Anoushka Shankar – “Indian Summer”
- Arrow – “Hot, Hot, Hot”
- Barbra Streisand – “Don’t Rain on My Parade”
- Beyoncé feat. Jay-Z – “Crazy in Love”
- Bob Marley & The Wailers – “Could You Be Loved”
- Daddy Lumba – “Mpempem Do Me”
- Davido feat. Fave – “KANTE”
- Diana Ross – “Upside Down”
- Grace Jones – “La Vie En Rose”
- Jools Holland & Ruby Turner – “My Country Man”
- Kylie Minogue – “The Loco-Motion”
- Miriam Makeba – “The Click Song”
- Michael Bublé – “Haven’t Met You Yet”
- Millie Small – “My Boy Lollipop”
- Peter Skellern – “You’re a Lady”
- Raye – “Love Me Again”
- Siti Nurhaliza – “Anta Permana”
- Sir Bryn Terfel – “E Te Iwi E (Call to the People)”

Why This Matters

By sharing his love for music, King Charles is creating a more personal connection with the public, showing that even royals have playlists they turn to for comfort and joy.

Apple Music’s partnership with the King highlights the importance of music as a unifying force, something that spans generations and cultures. Whether you’re a royalist or just a music lover, this playlist offers a rare glimpse into the King’s personal world one song at a time. Listen to the King’s full show for free on Apple Music.

References: King Charles Is Playing DJ in an Unexpected Collaboration with Apple Music: ‘It Brings Us Joy’ | King Charles Reveals His Surprising Music Taste in New Playlist, Featuring Artists Like Beyoncé, Bob Marley and Kylie Minogue