Tiwa Savage to perform at King Charles’ coronation

The ceremony follows the passing of King Charles III’s mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September last year, and will see Charles III’s crowning alongside Queen Consort Camilla. It will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, as well as BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.

The ‘Somebody’s Son’ hitmaker will join fellow international acts including South African soprano Pretty Yende, emerging Nigeria-born and Nottingham-based musician JERUB, Steve Winwood, DJ Pete Tong, Lang Lang, Paloma Faith and Olly Murs at the event. Other performers include Take That, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, Andrea Bocelli, Sir Bryn Terfel and Freya Ridings.

“We are excited to announce that Tiwa Savage will be performing at the coronation concert alongside other world-class musicians,” a statement reads. “Tiwa Savage is an exceptional artist with a unique blend of African and Western sounds.”

Ahead of the gig, the multiple award-winning musician behind three albums and two EPs told the BBC it is an honour to represent Africa and the Commonwealth at such a historic event. “I look forward to joining the celebrations and bringing Afrobeats to Windsor Castle for the first time,” Savage said.

Elsewhere, fellow Nigerian singer Ayra Starr missed a series of shows in the US, including the Something In The Water concert in Virginia, citing ill-health. 

“My doctor has advised me to slow down, hence I’m on immediate bed rest,” she revealed in a statement. “So sorry I couldn’t meet every one of you as planned. I’m also sorry you feel let down but I promise to be back in a special way for you when we’ll have a magical time.”