mxdwn.co.uk » Queen Elizabeth II https://www.mxdwn.co.uk all that matters in music in the UK Mon, 25 May 2026 08:18:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=4.1 Details Concerning Queen Elizabeth II’s State Funeral Announced https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/details-concerning-queen-elizabeth-iis-state-funeral-announced/ https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/details-concerning-queen-elizabeth-iis-state-funeral-announced/#comments Sun, 18 Sep 2022 18:27:40 +0000 http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=58843 With the funeral of the late Queen Elizabeth II approaching, guidelines have been issued by the government on how the public can participate in the event. Set to take place on the morning of Monday 19th September 2022, line routes in London and Windsor have been established for the public to follow the Queen’s coffin on its journey. The funeral will also be broadcasted on giant screens erected across the country to enable people to watch the ceremony.

Screens for public viewing will be located in London’s Hyde park, centenary Square in Birmingham, Sheffield’s Cathedral Square, Holyrood Park in Edinburgh, Carlisle’s Bitts Park and Coleraine Town Hall located in Northern Ireland. If you are unable to get to one of the Big screens, selected cinemas will also be broadcasting the funeral. For those watching at home, the funeral service and the processions will be available to watch live via BBC one, ITV and Sky.

As the world remembers Queen Elizabeth II for her time on the throne, many are left reminiscing about her influence within the arts, particularly those whom she has knighted and awarded for their service within music. Within Queen Elizabeth II’s long and storied 70-year reign, some of music’s most influential artists have received a royal nod of recognition. Named the Order of the British Empire, it consists of five levels of importance. The first is MBE, otherwise known as Member; the next is Officer (OBE), second to the top is Knight and Dame Commander (KBE and DBE) and the most important is Knight and Dame Grand Cross (GBE).

Here are some of the most notable names to be honoured by Queen Elizabeth II. Many know Bob Geldolf as the organiser and figurehead for Live Aid; not surprisingly, he was given an honorary knighthood by the late monarch on 10th June 1986. Otherwise known as the fifth Beatle, George Martin was given the GBE title in 1996 for his work as a record producer. The Beatles band member and solo artist Paul McCartney was knighted by the late Queen on 11th March 1997, fellow bandmate Ringo Starr joined the knighthood ranks at a ceremony on 29th December 2017.

Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger took the knee in 2003 for his knighthood, fellow singer Ray Davies, frontman for The Kinks, was knighted in 2017. Some inductees are not English but are considered for an Order of the British empire due to their time spent within the UK; Barry Gibb from The Bee Gees is an example of this ruling; although the group are often linked to Australia, Gibb was knighted in 2017 due to the amount of time spent within the UK.

Even though most artists put forward for the award accept the invitation, many have refused to accept the Order of the British Empire. Famously David Bowie refused a CBE in 2000 and a Knighthood (GBE) in 2003. Speaking on his decision, the “Starman” singer gave the following statement, “I would never have any intention of accepting anything like that. I seriously don’t know what it’s for. It’s not what I spent my life working for. It’s not my place to make a judgement on Jagger, it’s his decision. But it’s just not for me.“

For more information concerning the state funeral please click here.

]]> https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/details-concerning-queen-elizabeth-iis-state-funeral-announced/feed/ 0 Duran Duran Pay Tribute To Queen Elizabeth II During Hollywood Bowl Performance https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/duran-duran-pay-tribute-to-queen-elizabeth-ii-during-hollywood-bowl-performance/ https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/duran-duran-pay-tribute-to-queen-elizabeth-ii-during-hollywood-bowl-performance/#comments Sun, 11 Sep 2022 18:29:40 +0000 http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=58716 Pop icons Duran Duran have joined the long list of artists who have paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II during a live performance, the band dedicated “Save A Prayer” to the late monarch during their set at the Hollywood Bowl. The group consisting of Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes and John and Roger Taylor played the LA Amphitheatre on Friday 9th September 2022.

During the band’s tribute, Duran Duran urged the crowd to hold up their lighted phones to pay respect to the 96-year-old former monarch. The group then launched into a beautifully sorrowful rendition of the hit; the set featured animated white doves flying across the video screens. The 80’s heartthrobs took to their official social media accounts to share a touching message accompanied by a breath taking picture of the audience.

Whilst addressing the audience, lead singer Le Bon said, “So, you know that it’s a real sad time for a lot of us Brits, and a lot of other people around the world, and we would like to make our own tribute to Queen Elizabeth, If you’d like to join us and show your respect, please take your cell phone out, switch the light on. Let’s fill the Bowl with light for the Queen. We say goodbye.” See below for fan footage which captured the emotional performance.

Before Duran Duran proceeded to perform their 1982 ballad, a portrait of the Queen was displayed on large screens; the same image was also projected to the audience before the group took to the stage. The spectacular concert saw “Milkshake” singer Kelis open for the legendary hitmakers, for a full review of the concert please click here. Just hours prior to the “Hungry Like The Wolf” band’s appearance, the group took to their official social media accounts to share their reaction to the news of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. The post included the following emotive message, “Her Majesty the Queen has presided over the UK for longer than any other British monarch. She dedicated her life to the people and set an extraordinary example to the world throughout her reign.”

The band’s post continued, “She’s seen changes that are beyond what any of us can imagine. She has faced challenges that she has risen to time and again. Her life has been remarkable in so many ways. We will all miss her and are grateful for the incredible service she gave to the people of Great Britain and the countries of the Commonwealth, We send our deepest condolence to the royal family. Her death brings to an end a long and unique chapter in the history of the United Kingdom and the world,”

Duran Duran were among the many acts who played at the Platinum Jubilee concert to celebrate the Queen’s 70th year on the throne. The band performed on a constructed stage outside of London’s Buckingham Palace on 4th June 2022, also billed to perform were Diana Ross, Rod Stewart and Queen + Adam Lambert. The first act to perform was Queen + Adam Lambert; the royal rockers performed their classic hit “We Will Rock You” alongside a royal marching band. The Queen herself was present for many of the Jubilee celebrations and events, but she did not attend the star-studded concert; in lieu of her attendance, a very special comical pre-recorded message of the Queen featuring Paddington Bear was shown to kick off the event.

]]> https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/duran-duran-pay-tribute-to-queen-elizabeth-ii-during-hollywood-bowl-performance/feed/ 0 Musicians And Artists Take To Social Media To Pay Their Respects To Queen Elizabeth II https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/musicians-and-artists-take-to-social-media-to-pay-their-respects-to-queen-elizabeth-ii/ https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/musicians-and-artists-take-to-social-media-to-pay-their-respects-to-queen-elizabeth-ii/#comments Sat, 10 Sep 2022 17:31:22 +0000 http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=58678 Earlier this week, the news of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing was confirmed; the monarch’s death has left a tragic imprint on many across the globe. On Thursday 8th September 2022 Queen Elizabeth II passed away at her Scottish Balmoral estate, surrounded by her close family. As per tradition, the union flag situated on top of London’s Buckingham Palace has been adjusted to half-mast.

Queen Elizabeth II’s heavy influence within culture is often cited to her time on the throne; her royal tenure spans an impressive 70 years and 214 days, making her the longest reigning monarch in British History. Known as Princess Elizabeth before being crowned, she was promoted to Queen at the young age of 27; her coronation took place at London’s Westminster Abbey in 1953. The televised event was a landmark event and drew in an audience of over 20 million viewers.

Her Son, King Charles III, has given the following statement concerning his mother’s death, “We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished sovereign and a much-loved mother.I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.” He continued to discuss the forthcoming difficult period of mourning and stated that he and his family would be “comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which the Queen was so widely held“.

Due to the Queen’s long reign and consistent presence throughout many decades and eras, many have expressed intense sadness about Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. As the world is left reeling from the tragic news, more and more tributes have poured in, many from the musical world:

Details have been revealed concerning Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral; it has been confirmed to occur at 11 am on Monday 19th September 2022. Buckingham Palace has also confirmed the day of the funeral will be a bank holiday, and the Queen’s coffin will be taken to Edinburgh’s St Giles Cathedral after the funeral. On Monday, 12th September 2022, members of the public will be able to visit the Cathedral to pay their respects; on Wednesday 14th September the coffin will be moved to London’s Palace of Westminster, where the public can also pay their respects.

]]> https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/musicians-and-artists-take-to-social-media-to-pay-their-respects-to-queen-elizabeth-ii/feed/ 0 Tributes For Queen Elizabeth II Flood In From Artists And Musicians https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/tributes-for-queen-elizabeth-ii-flood-in-from-artists-and-musicians/ https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/tributes-for-queen-elizabeth-ii-flood-in-from-artists-and-musicians/#comments Fri, 09 Sep 2022 13:31:18 +0000 http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=58647 The devasting news of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing sent shockwaves worldwide; the longest-reigning monarch in British history tragically passed away at the age of 96. The announcement made yesterday afternoon (Thursday, 8th September 2022) confirmed that the beloved royal family member had passed at her Scotland residence surrounded by her family.

As soon as the tragic news was confirmed, tributes from the music world followed; Sir Elton John was amongst the first to pay his respects. Sir John had a famously close relationship with the Queen and has received several accolades from her; in 1995 he was appointed a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) and in 1998, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II herself for his work in various charities and in 2020 he was appointed CH (Member of the order for the Companions of Honour) for his musical legacy and influence.

Speaking on social media, Sir John issued the following emotional statement, “Along with the rest of the nation, I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s passing, She was an inspiring presence to be around, and led the country through some of our greatest, and darkest, moments with grace, decency and a genuine caring warmth. Queen Elizabeth has been a huge part of my life from childhood to this day, and I will miss her dearly.”

Sir John was also one of many artists who dedicated their live performances to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Whilst appearing in Toronto, the “Rocket Man” singer halted this set to give a speech remembering his dear friend and late monarch. Before starting his 1974 hit “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me“, Sir John addressed the crowd, “We have the saddest news about the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, She was an inspiring presence to be around – I’ve been around her and she was fantastic. She led the country through some of our greatest and darkest moments with grace, decency and a genuine care and warmth.”

The singer continued, “I’m 75 – she’s been with me all my life and I feel very sad that she won’t be with me anymore. But I’m glad she’s at peace, and I’m glad she’s at rest, and she deserves it because she’s worked b**ody hard. I send my love to her family and her loved ones. She will be missed, but her spirit lives on and we celebrate her life tonight with music – okay?”

Fellow British rockers The Rolling Stones also paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II; the legendary group released a statement, “The Rolling Stones extend their deepest sympathy to the Royal family on the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, who was a constant presence in their lives as in countless others”

Frontman Mick Jagger continued, “For my whole life Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, has always been there. In my childhood, I can recall watching her wedding highlights on TV. I remember her as a beautiful young lady, to the much-beloved grandmother of the nation.” Members of the British girl group Spice Girls also took to social media to pay respects; Victoria Beckham (Posh Spice) and Melanie Brown (Scary Spice) both posted emotional tributes.  

The prince of Darkness himself has also joined the long list of musicians and artists who wanted to pay tribute, within the post Ozzy Osbourne utilised a beautiful picture of Queen Elizabeth II paired with an equally beautiful caption.

]]> https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/tributes-for-queen-elizabeth-ii-flood-in-from-artists-and-musicians/feed/ 0 Brian May Hints at Possible Queen Performance at Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Concert https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/brian-may-hints-at-possible-queen-performance-at-queen-elizabeth-iis-platinum-jubilee-concert/ https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/brian-may-hints-at-possible-queen-performance-at-queen-elizabeth-iis-platinum-jubilee-concert/#comments Sun, 17 Apr 2022 20:45:10 +0000 http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=54988 Beloved British guitarist Brian May has teased that Queen may be performing at Queen Elizabeth II’s forthcoming Platinum Jubilee concert. The highly anticipated event will take place in front of Buckingham Palace to an audience of around 10,000 people and is one of several events intended to celebrate the Queen becoming the first British monarch to reign for 70 years. The Platinum Jubilee will also be broadcast live on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 2.

In a recent statement, the BBC’s chief content officer, Charlotte Moore, said: “The Platinum Party at the Palace is set to be one of the highlights of Her Majesty The Queen’s landmark Jubilee festivities weekend and one of the biggest concerts in a generation.”

As for tickets, a ballot was opened in February for 5,000 tickets, and some are to be handed out by select charities.

Speaking in a recent interview on the Zoe Ball Breakfast Show, Queen guitarist Brian May teased the band’s potential involvement in the event: “I don’t think I’m allowed to tell you this but I think something might happen…There is talk of something happening. What can I tell you? We may be there, we may actually be there. Of course, it’s hard to follow standing on the roof of Buckingham Palace but you never know it might be possible.”

The event, which will take place on June 4th, has slowly begun to announce and allege an impressive roster of musical talent, including George Ezra, who was the first artist to be named on the line-up. Other speculations include Ed Sheeran, Sir Elton John and Stevie Wonder. According to Smooth Radio, The Royal Family are said to be looking to attract some of the best and brightest of stars in the music world, such as Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Rod Stewart and Sir Cliff Richard.

If Queen are indeed to perform, this will not be Brian May’s first rodeo when it comes to performing at Jubilee events. May famously performed a stunning electric guitar rendition of “God Save The Queen” from the roof of Buckingham Palace at Her Majesty’s Golden Jubilee in 2002.

The event also saw British singer Tom Jones performing “Sex Bomb”, Elton John performing “I Want Love”, Eric Clapton performing “Layla” and Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys joining forces with the Corrs to perform “God Only Knows”. Other performers at the event included Sir Paul McCartney, Rod Stewart celebrated metal singer Ozzy Osbourne, Annie Lennox and Tony Bennett.

 

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