Performing to a sea of cell phone lights at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on Friday night (9.09,) Duran Duran honored Queen Elizabeth II with a dramatic rendition of their 1982 ballad “Save A Prayer.”
Amidst a steady rain fall at the famed outdoor venue, frontman Simon Le Bon addressed the audience saying “So, you know that it’s a real sad time for a lot of us Brits, and a lot of other people around the world, and we would like to make our own tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.” “If you’d like to join us and show your respect, please take your cell phone out, switch the light on. Let’s fill the Bowl with light for the queen.” “We say goodbye.”
As giant animated white doves flew across video screens flanking the stage, Duran’s lead singer called his view “beautiful.” as he performed the single with bandmates John Taylor on bass, Nick Rhodes on keyboard and Roger Taylor on drums.
Framed by a massive portrait of a young Queen Elizabeth II shown on a screen behind the stage, the iconic pop/rock band’s rendition marked the monarch’s death at age of 96.
In statement posted Thursday on social media Duran Duran wrote:
“Her Majesty the Queen has presided over the UK for longer than any other British monarch. She dedicated her life to the people and set an extraordinary example to the world throughout her reign,” “She’s seen changes that are beyond what any of us can imagine. She has faced challenges that she has risen to time and again. Her life has been remarkable in so many ways. We will all miss her and are grateful for the incredible service she gave to the people of Great Britain and the countries of the Commonwealth.” “We send our deepest condolence to the royal family. Her death brings to an end a long and unique chapter in the history of the United Kingdom and the world.”
Back in June, the band performed outside London’s Buckingham Palace during a star-studded Platinum Jubilee concert celebrating the 70th anniversary of the queen’s reign.
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Author: Al Denté
Photo: Pedro Mora