QE II The First Decade. Continues tomorrow.

Elizabeth II

The SOUNDTRACK To Her REIGN

(1952-2022)

)

With more than 70 years on the throne, Elizabeth II ruled during decades of immense change. Here are songs that demonstrate how radically British popular music evolved throughout her reign. These selections- one for every year she ruled- reflect shifts in popular culture across the seven decades.

N 1952-61 M

The death of George VI in 1952 on February 6, thrust on his 25 year-old daughter the heavy responsibility of being the new monarch. Elizabeth II’s coronation took place the following year.

At the start of her reign, Britain was still re-emerging from the aftermath of the Second World War. Winston Churchill was the Prime Minister. The British Empire was changing.

British musical artists included Vera Lynn and Dickie Valentine. Russ Conway later delighted with his piano instrumentals. The advent of rock ‘n roll saw the emergence of the first noteworthy English rocker: Tommy Steele. Skiffle music was the rage, with Lonnie Donegan its leading exponent. The sub-genre influenced many Brits, including future members of The Beatles.

 

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FORGET ME NOT Vera Lynn  

CUMBERLAND GAP Lonnie Donegan  

APACHE The Shadows

STRANGER ON THE SHORE Acker Bilk  

  TELSTAR The Tornados  

 

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