Rock's Royalty to Rock the Castle

By Stephen M. Silverman

Tuesday February 26, 2002 11:03 AM EST

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Princes William and Harry will get preferred seating, no doubt, when some of Britain's top pop acts of the past 50 years play on the grounds of Buckingham Palace this summer, reports PEOPLE's London bureau. The June 3 special concert for 12,000 invited guests from around the U.K. -- and some 200 from around the world -- is meant to be one of the high points of Queen Elizabeth's Golden Jubilee celebration. "The best way to thank someone or celebrate is to ask them round to your place, or palace, and that's what the Queen is doing," says senior courtier Sir Michael Peat. As was announced Tuesday, Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Elton John, Eric Clapton, Queen (with special guests), and S Club 7 are among the British artists, with the Yanks being represented by Aretha Franklin and former Beach Boy Brian Wilson, among others. Phil Collins will be the drummer for the concert's "house band," with palace sources telling PEOPLE that it is not yet certain which songs will be performed during the superstar jam session. "That will become more apparent once they all start working together," the magazine has been assured. Speculation, meanwhile, is running high that Madonna, David Bowie and Brit soul star Craig David will be in the final lineup. Organizers, however, denied that Robbie Williams declined to participate. "He did not turn it down at all but for a number of reasons he cannot perform," said Lorna Dickinson, executive producer of the show. Each guest will be given a picnic basket of snacks and a half-bottle of champagne. And in an apparent nod toward 17-year-old Prince Harry's recent difficulties, Sir Michael Peat was asked whether there were concerns about drug use or alcohol (which will be available) on the Queen's grounds. "I don't know what to say to that question. I don't have particular concerns in that area," he said. "William and Harry are very much looking forward to coming to the concerts."