London: King Charles III shared a lighthearted moment with music legend Elton John during a special edition of the singer’s Apple Music radio show, which aired Saturday, November 14, to mark the monarch’s 78th birthday.
The special episode of Elton John’s Rocket Hour celebrated the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust, the youth charity founded by Charles in 1976. The conversation highlighted the contribution musicians have made to supporting young people.
During the broadcast, Charles and Elton John revisited a 1986 Rock Gala at Wembley Arena, where the singer performed his hit song “I’m Still Standing” in support of the charity’s 10th anniversary.
Reflecting on the performance, King Charles III praised the song’s powerful message of resilience and its ability to inspire people facing difficult circumstances. He also connected its message to the charity’s continued work over four decades.
“Certainly 40 years on from that remarkable concert, we and the Trust are definitely still standing,” Charles said during the conversation.
Elton John responded with a joke about getting older, saying, “I’m still sitting now, though.” The remark prompted laughter from the monarch, who replied, “With occasional bits dropping off here and there,” acknowledging the challenges of aging.
The exchange offered a relaxed glimpse into the relationship between the two longtime supporters of charitable causes. Both have faced health challenges in recent years, with Charles continuing cancer treatment and John experiencing eyesight problems.
The conversation also explored the importance of music in the history of The King’s Trust, which began as The Prince’s Trust when Charles established it using his Royal Navy severance pay in 1976.
The organization was renamed The King’s Trust after Charles became monarch in 2022. According to the charity, it has supported more than one million young people by helping them access employment, education, training and business opportunities.
Charles also reflected on the musicians who have supported the organization throughout its history, highlighting how established performers can help emerging artists develop their careers and reach wider audiences.
Elton John has maintained a long association with the charity and has used his platform to support younger musical talent. His Rocket Hour program has aired weekly on Apple Music 1 since 2015.
The birthday broadcast brought together music, personal memories and the charity’s five decades of work, with Charles and Elton John using the occasion to recognize the artists who have helped support its mission.
