King Charles Celebrates Beyoncé and the Power of Music
In a delightful twist of royal engagement, King Charles has recently paid tribute to none other than Beyoncé, calling her “exceptional” during his online radio show, Music Room. This heartfelt acknowledgment came as he celebrated the singer’s first Album of the Year Grammy win for her chart-topping country album, Cowboy Carter.
The King, who took on the role of a one-off DJ, played Beyoncé’s iconic hit “Crazy In Love,” a song that has become a staple in pop culture since its release. He reminisced about his youth, admitting it was “absolutely impossible” not to dance to Diana Ross’s “Upside Down,” another classic he featured in his playlist. “When I was much younger, it was impossible not to get up and dance when it was played,” he shared, inviting listeners into his fond memories of music that shaped his life.
Charles was “surprised and delighted” when Apple Music invited him to showcase 17 of his favorite tracks to mark Commonwealth Day. Among the artists he highlighted were the likes of Jools Holland, Michael Bublé, and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa. The royal’s selection was not just a nod to his personal taste but also a celebration of the diverse musical heritage that enriches the Commonwealth.
Reflecting on his grandmother, the Queen Mother, Charles played Al Bowlly’s “The Very Thought of You,” a song from the 1930s that he described as uplifting. “This was an era of songs made memorable by brilliant lyrics, incredible bands, and unstoppable rhythm,” he noted, emphasizing the timeless nature of music.
Beyoncé’s performance at the Prince’s Trust Fashion Rocks concert in 2003, where she first sang “Crazy In Love,” was a significant moment for the King. He expressed his admiration for her, stating, “She is a performer so exceptional that I just could not resist including her music.” This acknowledgment is particularly poignant as Beyoncé had previously missed out on the Grammy for Album of the Year multiple times, finally clinching it this year after years of hard work and dedication.
In a heartfelt moment, Charles also paid tribute to reggae legend Bob Marley, whose song “Could You Be Loved” was featured in the show. He recalled meeting Marley in London and praised his “marvellous, infectious energy” and deep concern for his community. “Bob Marley would have been 80 this year,” he reflected, reminding listeners of the profound impact Marley had on music and society.
As the King introduced each song, he infused his commentary with personal anecdotes and cultural insights. For instance, he described Kylie Minogue’s “Locomotion” as “music for dancing,” highlighting its infectious energy that makes it hard to sit still. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Windrush Generation, celebrating artists like Millie Small, whose “My Boy Lollipop” brought Caribbean sounds to the forefront of British music.
The playlist was a vibrant tapestry of sounds, featuring Commonwealth artists and showcasing the rich cultural diversity that defines the music landscape. From Grace Jones’s rendition of “La Vie En Rose” to Michael Bublé’s “Haven’t Met You Yet,” each song was a testament to the power of music to connect people across generations and backgrounds.
As the show wrapped up with Diana Ross’s “Upside Down,” King Charles left listeners with a sense of nostalgia and joy, reminding us all of the magic that music brings to our lives. “So I wonder if I can still just manage it,” he mused, inviting us to reflect on our own musical memories and the rhythms that move us.
In a world where music continues to bridge gaps and foster connections, King Charles’s tribute to Beyoncé and the legends of the past serves as a reminder of the universal language of song. What songs make you want to dance?