Global superstar singer revealed as first act to perform at King Charles’s coronation concert
LIONEL Richie is the first musical megastar to be signed up for the King’s Coronation concert
The singer, who has sold 100 million records worldwide, will perform to Charles and Camilla and a TV audience at the bash at Windsor Castle.
The American is a long-time pal and supporter of the King, 74, and serves as a global ambassador for Charles’s Prince’’s Trust.
The former Commodores singer, 73, will perform his global smash hits such as Hello and All Night Long to 10,000 ticket-holders on the castle’s East Lawn on May 7.
Freshly anointed King Charles and Queen Camilla will also take their seats for the musical bonanza with guests chosen by ballot.
The BBC has promised the line-up will feature “musical icons and contemporary stars”.
There are rumours the Spice Girls will reform for it, while Tom Cruise has paused production on his latest movie so he can attend the three-day events.
A source said: “The King respects all of his ambassadors and particularly appreciates Lionel’s unwavering support for his Prince’s Trust.
They have met on several occasions over the years and shared a bond as they are also both of very similar age.
“Lionel Richie is a great first addition to the concert which is fast looking like it is going to be the hottest ticket of the summer.”
The ballot has opened for tickets with 5,000 allocated to fans based on their geographical spread around the UK.
A further 5,000 will be distributed to charities close to the Royal Family’s hearts, members of the military and representatives from around the Commonwealth.
I’ve made insignia
DESIGN guru Sir Jony Ive has created a coronation emblem inspired by the King’s “love of the planet, nature and deep concern for the natural world”.
Sir Jony, 55, credited with designing Apple’s iPhone, produced the insignia with his creative collective, LoveFrom.
It features a stylised image of St Edward’s Crown, which will be used to crown the monarch on May 6.
It also features the rose of England, thistle of Scotland, daffodil of Wales and the shamrock of Northern Ireland.
Sir Jony said: “It is such an honour to be able to contribute to this remarkable national occasion.”