Discover the eclectic music taste of King Charles, featuring hits from Bob Marley to Kylie Minogue. Royal jams await!

The King unveils his music playlist, featuring Marley and Kylie Image source: PA Media Image caption: King Charles is curating a Commonwealth playlist, including reggae and disco vibes By Sean Coughlan, Royal correspondent King Charles III has decided to share his personal playlist of tunes that lift his spirits and evoke important memories, featuring the likes of Bob Marley, Kylie Minogue, and Grace Jones. In a photo taken at Buckingham Palace for the music initiative known as the King's Music Room, the monarch can be seen with an "on air" sign on the desk of the royal DJ. A teaser video showcases the band performing Bob Marley's "Could You Be Loved" during the changing of the guard ceremony at the palace, as part of a celebration of music from Commonwealth nations. "This is what I wanted to share - songs that have brought me joy," expressed the King. "Music has held great significance for me throughout my life," he shared in a video unveiling the project, a collaboration with Apple Music. "I believe this sentiment resonates with many others. Music has the ability to transport us to distant places, bring back cherished memories, and uplift our spirits, especially when it brings us together in celebration." The complete selection of tracks, accompanied by further commentary from the King, will be available on Monday, in honor of Commonwealth Day. In addition to Marley's reggae and Minogue's dance hits, the playlist is expected to feature tracks from artists like Nigerian-American Davido and British singer Raye. The King first encountered Raye at a concert during a Christmas visit to Battersea Power Station, where Apple's London office is located. This initiative provides a unique twist on the usual Commonwealth Day celebrations, during which the Royal Family typically attends a service at Westminster Abbey. By showcasing the King's musical journey through his life, spanning from 1930s crooners to modern-day Afrobeat sensations, the playlist will also include anecdotes about the artists and explain why their songs have become integral to his life soundtrack. "I found this to be a compelling and inventive way to mark this year's Commonwealth Day," commented the King. Having a longstanding fascination with Bob Marley, the King has even visited the legendary musician's former abode in Jamaica, now transformed into a museum. As the band played Marley's empowering message outside the palace windows, "Don't let them change ya, oh! Or even rearrange ya! Oh, no!", the King's love for music and its ability to inspire was evident. Sign up here to receive the latest royal news and insights straight to your inbox every week through our Royal Watch newsletter. For international readers, sign up here. Tags: uk, royal family, king charles, music, playlist

Saturday 08th Mar 2025