Elton John records ‘Rocket Hour’ show with King Charles to mark monarch’s 78th birthday
The pair will team up for the episode this weekend.
By Nick Reilly
Elton John has recorded an episode of his Apple Radio show Rocket Hour with King Charles, to mark the monarch’s 78th birthday on Saturday (.
The programme, recorded by the pair in secret last month, will premiere at 9am GMT that day on Apple Music 1.
They sat down for the chat at the Apple Music Studios in Battersea Power Station, which was held to highlight the integral role of music in the work of the king’s charity, The King’s Trust, which is celebrating its 50th year.
Introducing the clip in a voiced trailer, Elton said: “Hi, I’m Elton John. Welcome to my Rocket Hour. This week, I’ve got a special guest, and I really mean special guest. I’m so excited to hear what he’s got to say about music, about The King’s Trust and memories that we both share.”
The pair shared their memories of concerts held in support of the trust, including Wembley Arena rock galas in the 1980s and later outdoor shows in Hyde Park.
Muse are also highlighted in the artist, with the King recalling that they given a grant from the Prince’s Trust as it was then known to purchase live equipment when they were starting out in Devon.
Sir Elton told King Charles: “I never knew that some of these musicians were involved in the trust. It’s great news to me… and it reinforces for me all the great work that you’ve done all these 50 years, because I had no idea. So bravo.”
The King also said it was “wonderful” to view the difference the trust’s programmes can make on young people.
“Music has always been at the heart of The Prince’s, and now The King’s Trust,” he said. “So when I was asked whether I would like to showcase a selection of music from among the many talented performers who have so generously supported us over the years, together with some of the newer artists the trust has helped to launch, it was an opportunity too good to resist.”