Planning for King Charles' May coronation is well underway, but it seems event organizers have hit a bit of a snag. A growing number of the musical acts that have been invited to perform have RSVPed a firm "No," according to The Sun. This is just the latest planning hiccup that seems to be pointing to disaster for the newly minted monarch.
Some of the acts thought to be shoe-ins have backed out.
It's being reported that home-grown talents Harry Styles, Adele, and Elton John are among the list of top-billed performers who have turned down the king's invite to be a part of his coronation concert, scheduled for May 7 on the grounds of Windsor Castle. Buckingham Palace has also reached out to Ed Sheeran and Robbie Williams, but they have declined the royal invite as well.
There's some speculation about why nobody wants to be associated with the event.
We already know there's some controversy surrounding the coronation. Not only are there ethical questions about the anointing oil — the concoction is made up of orange flowers, roses, and multiple animal-based oils — but also cultural issues about the use of the stolen Koh-i-Noor diamond (which has a bloody history of colonial conquest).
There may be some very good reasons why entertainers are saying no.
Not every 'Thanks but no thanks' is a mystery. Harry Styles will be on the road for his global Love on Tour performances. Elton John and Adele also seem to have turned down the invite because of their overbooked schedules and tour commitments. But that doesn't explain why so many other music industry stars are passing on what should be a huge career opportunity.
The Spice Girls have had a change of heart.
Victoria Beckham, Melanie C, Mel B, Geri Horner, and Emma Bunton were all said to be reuniting for the gig, but as of January, rumor has it that they have changed their minds and will be staying home.
We can't help but wonder why so many people are shying away from Charles' big occasion.
We should expect a list of the acts who said yes to be announced soon.
According to the Daily Mail, sources have said that the "biggest names" in the world of music are being approached for the coronation. "If you draw up a list of the most popular acts in the world over the past 30 years, then they are all being considered," one insider said.
Hopefully Buckingham Palace has better luck with some of the other headliners being approached. The event is expected to be ratings gold, but if organizers can't find anyone to take the stage, we have a feeling people will be more inclined to tune out come May 7.
