Queen Elizabeth II, one of the most remarkable personalities in world’s history, died on September 8 at age 96. After reigning for 70 years, she is considered the longest-serving monarch in British history. In this context, during her lifetime, she met important celebrities, artists, and political figures from all over the world, such as Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai, and many others. Here are some pop artists that the Queen welcomed into her presence during her reign:
The Beatles
Formed by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, The Beatles – originated in Liverpool in 1960 – conquered crowds of fans worldwide. As the group’s popularity grew, the intense frenzy of their fanbase became known as “Beatlemania”. Therefore, the Beatles consolidated their career internationally and were considered one of the most influential bands of all time.
Due to their popularity, in 1965, the Beatles were acknowledged as Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) – a royal tribute for those who made positive contributions to the world. On this occasion, Queen Elizabeth welcomed the quartet at Buckingham Palace.
“I remember us being taken aside and shown what the correct protocol was. We were told how to approach Her Majesty and not to talk to her unless she talks to us. For four Liverpool lads, it was, ‘Wow, hey man.’” – shared McCartney about his first meeting with the Queen.
Spice Girls
The Spice Girls were a British girl band created in 1994. Formed by Geri Halliwell, Emma Bunton, Victoria Beckham, Melanie Brown, and Melanie Chisholm, the group rocked the pop music scene.
The band performed at the Royal Variety Performance of 1997, which happened at the Victoria Palace Theatre in London. Backstage of the event, the Spice Girls curtseyed the Queen.
Madonna
When we talk about pop artists, it is impossible not to mention Madonna. Her career began in 1982. Due to her musical innovations that represent a milestone in the music industry, she made her mark as a “pop royalty” through generations in her 40-year career.
In 2002, the Queen of Pop met Queen Elizabeth at the World Premiere of “Die Another Day”- a James Bond film that happened in The Royal Albert Hall in London. Madonna has made a part in the movie, besides recording a song for James Bond’s soundtrack – that carry the name of the production. During the event, the singer revered the Queen of England. Check it out:
Elton John
Elton John is a British singer and composer that started his career in 1962. During his music journey, he sold over three hundred million records. Among his discography, he has some successes such as “Rocket Man” and “Your Song.”
In 2012, there was the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II to celebrate her 60 years on the throne. This celebration had a massive concert in her honor, which many music personalities attended. Backstage of this event, the Queen welcomed some artists such as Elton John.
One Direction
The pop boyband One Direction was created in 2010 and continued on the music scene until 2016 – when they went on hiatus. Formed by Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, and Zayn Malik, One Direction has reached global success and fans from all over the globe.
At 2012’s Royal Variety Performance, they took the stage to perform “Little Things”, which was at the top of the British music charts. During the royal event, they were able to meet Queen Elizabeth.
These are some of the meetings Queen Elizabeth II had with pop artists during her reign. Despite being a political figure, she welcomed celebrities to her royal events. During her lifetime, she met different personalities that showed some impacts on the music scene during different periods – and these are only a handful of all the people she passed by.
The article above was edited by Julia Bonin.
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