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In 1976, King Charles used his Navy severance pay to start a charity; 50 years later, Elton John joins him for a special celebration
King Charles III is set to celebrate his 78th birthday in a rather musical way. The monarch has joined hands with legendary singer Sir Elton John for a special episode of his radio show, Rocket Hour, which will also shine a spotlight on a cause that has remained close to his heart for five decades.The hour-long programme will premiere on November 14, 2026, coinciding with the King’s birthday, and will celebrate the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust, formerly known as The Prince’s Trust. The special conversation brings together two prominent figures from different worlds to revisit the role music has played in supporting the charity and the young talent it has helped over the years.The episode was recorded privately last month at Apple Music’s new radio studios at Battersea Power Station in London. Charles and Elton discuss musicians who have contributed to the organisation’s fundraising efforts, as well as artists who received support from the charity during the early stages of their careers.King Charles and Elton John revisit the charity’s musical legacyThe conversation looks back at several musical events organised to raise funds for the charity, including the Wembley Arena Rock Galas held during the 1980s, concerts at Hyde Park and fundraising performances at the Royal Albert Hall.One of the interesting stories discussed during the programme involves British rock band Muse. Before becoming internationally recognised, the group performed under the name Rocket Baby Dolls and received financial assistance from The Prince’s Trust to purchase public address (PA) equipment. The band later supported the organisation by performing a sold-out fundraising concert at the Royal Albert Hall in 2018.The story particularly caught Elton John’s attention, as he admitted that he had not previously realised how many musicians had benefited from the charity’s support. He praised Charles for continuing to invest in young people and their creative potential.Charles also spoke about the impact of the organisation’s programmes on young people’s confidence and self-belief. Explaining his motivation behind establishing the charity, the King said that his intention had always been to invest in the future, particularly by recognising and nurturing talent.The episode will also feature music from several generations of performers. Although the complete playlist will be revealed when the programme airs, some of the confirmed selections include Raye’s Joy, Skye Newman’s Hairdresser and Muse’s rendition of Feeling Good. The playlist is expected to bring together established performers and newer artists whose journeys have connections with the charity.The King’s Trust completes 50 years of supporting young peopleThe special broadcast also marks an important milestone for The King’s Trust, which Charles established in 1976 when he was the Prince of Wales. He initially used his Royal Navy severance pay to establish the organisation, with the aim of helping young people facing difficult circumstances find opportunities to build independent lives.Originally called The Prince’s Trust, the organisation was renamed The King’s Trust in 2024, following Charles’s accession to the throne. Over the past five decades, it has expanded its work to include education, employment training, mentoring, life skills and assistance for young entrepreneurs.According to the charity, it has helped more than 1.3 million young people across the UK since its establishment. Its programmes primarily support individuals aged between 11 and 30, helping them develop the skills and confidence required to pursue employment, education or business opportunities.The anniversary celebrations have also brought new initiatives. In October 2026, Apple and The King’s Trust introduced the Apple x King’s Trust Creative Labs, an educational programme designed to introduce young people to career opportunities in the creative industries. The initiative offers practical workshops, access to technology and guidance from industry professionals. Its first group includes up to 20 participants aged between 18 and 30, with further sessions planned over the following year.Elton John has also maintained a longstanding association with the charity. Apart from performing at its fundraising events over the years, the singer contributed a pair of his rose-tinted spectacles to an auction marking its 50th anniversary.
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For the singer, supporting emerging musicians is particularly important. Reflecting on his experience of presenting Rocket Hour, he spoke about how encouragement and recognition from established artists can influence the careers of newcomers. He also praised Charles for continuing to create opportunities for young people through the organisation.This will be Charles’s second major collaboration with Apple Music. In 2025, he presented The King’s Music Room, a special programme in which he selected 17 songs by artists from across the Commonwealth. The new episode with Elton John brings his interest in music together with the charity’s 50-year journey of supporting young talent.
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