The monarch said: ‘I particularly wanted to share with you songs which have brought me joy’

King Charles is launching his own online music playlist, including songs by reggae icon Bob Marley, Afrobeats star Davido and pop star Raye.

The monarch has teamed up with streaming giant Apple Music to allow listeners to hear his favourite tunes, which an Apple spokesperson revealed also includes hits by musical legends Kylie Minogue, Grace Jones and “1930s crooners”.

Charles, 76, has recorded a special announcement ahead of a new programme, which will include anecdotes about his encounters with some of the artists featured, to mark the release of the new concept, ahead of Commonwealth Day this Monday. It is understood the collaboration, codenamed Project Rose, has been kept carefully under wraps for months.

Jamaican-born Marley fought oppression and social injustice before his death in May 1981 ( 
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Getty Images)

The music legend’s songs often addressed the struggles of minorities, slavery, and colonialism ( 
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Kate Simon)
During the minute-long broadcast from His Majesty’s office at Buckingham Palace, the King tells viewers: “Throughout my life, music has meant a great deal to me. It has that remarkable ability to bring happy memories, comfort us in times of sadness and to take us to distant places.

“But perhaps, above all, it can lift our spirits to such a degree and all the more so when it brings us together in celebration. In other words, it brings us joy.” Charles added: “I particularly wanted to share with you songs which have brought me joy.”

Charles grew up playing the piano, cello, and trumpet and was also part of the school choir and orchestra at Gordonstoun, which he attended between the ages of 13 and 18. He is known to be a keen lover of classical music and in 2020 he appeared on Classic FM, presenting a programme of his favourite classical songs, including ‘The Birds’ from the Bridal March of the Birds by Parry, said to be his favourite composer, and two symphonic works by Wagner.

Nigerian-American singer-songwriter and record producer Davido is one of the world’s top Afrobeats stars ( 
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Getty Images)

British singer-songwriter Raye is considered one of the country’s top stars ( 
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NEWSPIX INTERNATIONAL)His choices at the time also included the prelude from Tristan and Isolde and Siegfried Idyll and the piano concerto by British composer Nigel Hess, who composed music for his coronation.

Speaking about the King’s latest collaboration, Rachel Newman, Apple Music’s global head of content and editorial, said: “Human curation has always been a key pillar of our unique editorial approach. Apple Music Radio is where culture is happening worldwide, and we are honoured that King Charles III chose to share his personal playlist with us and with music fans around the world.”

Errollyn Wallen, CBE, Master of The King’s Music, said: “You can see His Majesty’s wide-ranging enthusiasm for music in this playlist to mark Commonwealth Day. The Commonwealth has produced more than its fair share of wonderful songs, singers, and musicians, and this fun and eclectic collection is a great reminder of this treasure trove of creativity.”

Charles’ playlist also includes Jamaican singer, songwriter, model and actress Grace Jones ( 
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Corbis via Getty Images)

Charles is also a fan of Aussie pop star Kylie Minogue ( 
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WireImage)An Apple spokesperson added: “The King’s Music Room is sure to surprise and delight music fans everywhere, revealing a more personal side to His Majesty. A musical journey that reflects His Majesty’s personal taste, the show is shaped by his extraordinary experiences from around the world.

“King Charles III also shares and reveals why the songs help form the soundtrack to his life.”

*Listen to The King’s Music Room premiere on Apple Music 1 on Monday, March 10, at 6 a.m., for free. Or enjoy anytime on demand with an Apple Music subscription.