The Queen’s Playlist: 5 Songs Loved by Queen Elizabeth II

On this special day, we’re diving into the world of British royalty and sharing with you the favorite songs of the most iconic queen on the planet, Queen Elizabeth II. Known for her refined taste and musical education, the queen has always had a special relationship with music. On her 90th birthday, a list of her musical preferences was made public, and today we’re exploring some of the tracks she adores. Are you ready to travel through classical music, jazz, and great moments in UK music history? Here’s the royal selection!

1 – Howard Keel – Oklahoma!

We’re starting with an artist who had the privilege of performing in front of the British Royal Family. Howard Keel, accompanied by the English National Opera, sang one of Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite songs during the Royal Variety Performance in 1982. The song “Oklahoma!” is a classic of musical theater, and it surely brought great joy to the queen during that performance. The Royal Variety Performance is an annual event that’s an opportunity for artists to shine in front of the royals, with performances that always have a touch of magic.

2 – Gary Barlow & The Commonwealth Band featuring Military Wives – Sing

Queen Elizabeth II wasn’t indifferent to the music created especially for her Diamond Jubilee in 2012, celebrating 60 years of her coronation. The song Sing, written by Gary Barlow and Andrew Lloyd Webber, is a true tribute to her long journey on the throne. This historic event was a huge celebration, and the song represented the union of several voices and cultures within the Commonwealth, one of the pillars of the British Empire. The version performed by the Military Wives and the Commonwealth Band captivated both the queen and millions of other fans around the world.

3 – Fred Astaire – Cheek to Cheek

Classics never go out of style, and Cheek to Cheek is a true gem of jazz. Originally performed by Fred Astaire in the 1935 film Top Hat, this song has charmed generations, and Astaire’s version remains one of Queen Elizabeth II’s favorites. Although many versions have been made over the years, such as those by Louis Armstrong and Lady Gaga, the magic of the original performance still resonates in Buckingham Palace. It’s a song that conveys elegance, charm, and, of course, nostalgia for a golden era of American music.

4 – Vera Lynn – The White Cliffs of Dover

The White Cliffs of Dover is an emotional song that became famous during World War II, representing the resistance and hope of the British people. Performed by the legendary Vera Lynn, the song symbolizes the unbreakable spirit of Britain during times of war. Queen Elizabeth II, who grew up in this context of adversity, has always had a deep connection with this melody, which has become a national icon. The song is part of her repertoire of memories of difficult times, but also of great unity and strength.

5 – Choir of Westminster Abbey – Praise, My Soul, The King Of Heaven

We’re closing this royal playlist with a piece that’s deeply significant to Queen Elizabeth II, Praise, My Soul, The King Of Heaven, performed by the choir of Westminster Abbey. This song was chosen for the queen’s wedding to Prince Philip, and, as expected, it has immense emotional value for the monarch. The music, which exalts majesty and divine power, is a perfect ending to this list of her musical preferences. There couldn’t be a more fitting piece to symbolize the royal commitment and eternal love of Queen Elizabeth II for her country and her family.

Conclusion

Queen Elizabeth II has a diverse musical taste that ranges from classical music to musical theater, passing through great icons of British music. Her playlist, revealed on her 90th birthday, not only reflects her love for British culture but also her connection to historic moments that marked her life and reign. Each of these songs has a story, a memory, and, of course, a touch of royalty. With this musical selection, we can understand a little more about the personality and tastes of one of the most admired monarchs in the world.

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