King Charles III has partnered with Apple Music to curate a special 17-track playlist titled The King’s Music Room, celebrating the diverse musical landscape of the Commonwealth and beyond. Released to mark Commonwealth Day, the playlist offers a glimpse into the monarch’s personal taste and appreciation for various musical styles.
Among the artists featured is Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido, whose song Kante featuring Fave earned a spot on the prestigious list. Kante comes from Davido’s Grammy-nominated album Timeless, released in 2023, which was met with widespread acclaim and shattered numerous streaming records. The inclusion of this track further underscores the global appeal of Nigerian music and highlights the country’s growing influence within the Commonwealth.
Speaking on the playlist, King Charles III shared that he has a deep admiration for Nigerian Pidgin English, recalling his attempt to deliver a speech in Pidgin during a visit to Nigeria. His fondness for the language reflects a broader appreciation for the cultural diversity within the Commonwealth. Davido is the only Nigerian artist featured on the playlist, but he is joined by the late South African music legend Miriam Makeba, whose iconic song The Click Song was also selected. Makeba, affectionately known as “Mama Africa,” was a powerful advocate for African music on the global stage, and her inclusion pays tribute to her enduring legacy.
Beyond the African continent, the playlist reflects a wide array of musical influences. Tracks from Beyoncé (Crazy in Love featuring Jay-Z), reggae icon Bob Marley, pop sensation Kylie Minogue, and disco legend Grace Jones are also included, illustrating the King’s appreciation for both contemporary and classic hits. His selection highlights the universal power of music to connect people across cultures and generations.
In a special radio broadcast recorded at Buckingham Palace to accompany the playlist, King Charles spoke about the significance of music in his life, describing its ability to evoke memories, provide comfort, and transport listeners to distant places. “Throughout my life, music has meant a great deal to me. It has that 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,” he shared. The King expressed his hope that listeners would not only enjoy the playlist but also discover new songs that resonate with them.
This is not the first time King Charles III has engaged with African music. During his coronation event in May 2023, Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Tiwa Savage delivered a historic performance, further cementing the connection between the British monarchy and contemporary African artists. The King’s playlist serves as another recognition of the global influence of Nigerian and African music, reinforcing its importance within the Commonwealth’s rich and evolving cultural tapestry. Listen to the playlist below:
