Award-winning saxophonist YolanDa makes history as Royal Marines Band’s first Honorary Colonel

The musician – renowned for her distinctive reggae, jazz, and soulful sound – has been invited to perform with the musicians on the nation’s flagship in Oslo.

HMS Prince of Wales arrived in the Norwegian capital at the weekend to host meetings of European military and political leaders and thinkers discussing future collective security – with the Royal Marines Band adding music, pomp and ceremony to the occasion.

The Royal Navy and Royal Marines appoint a select number of honorary officers who serve as ambassadors and advocates for personnel and their families, offering advice and support where needed, and generally championing the UK Forces.

YolanDa said being appointed the first Honorary Colonel in the Royal Marines Band – an appointment approved by His Majesty The King – was “a privilege beyond words” and that she felt “incredibly proud and genuinely humbled” to be joining the Royal Marines family.

“Our Armed Forces do extraordinary work protecting us, serving our country and bringing hope to people around the world,” she continued.

“While music and military service may seem like two very different worlds, I believe they share something incredibly powerful: both bring people together, lift spirits, inspire courage and remind us of the strength of the human spirit.”

The Royal Marines Band join a long list of world-famous musical collaborators for the London-based musician, who’s toured with The Temptations, Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, and Billy Ocean and performed with artists as varied as Dave Stewart from Eurythmics, Kelly Jones from Stereophonics and 80s chart-topper Rick Astley.

“I cannot wait to champion the Royal Marines’ extraordinary talent, inspire the next generation, build bridges between the military and music worlds and contribute to the wider Royal Navy family,” YolanDa added.

“I embrace this honour with an open heart, enormous gratitude, lots of energy and of course, plenty of music. Let the adventure begin.”

Although the Royal Marines Band is best known for martial tunes and precise military drill, its musicians’ repertoire spans all musical genres – and can now infuse a unique blend of jazz, reggae and soul on occasions when they’re joined by their Honorary Colonel.

“As a leading light in the arts with a passion for connecting people through music, she will bring so much to the Service,” said Lieutenant Colonel Huw Williams RM, the Band Service’s Principal Director of Music.

“She is a brilliant performer and an inspiring leader with a fresh perspective and inexhaustible energy. She has already made a big impact on the Royal Marines Band Service and I’m excited to see where the adventure takes us.”

First Sea Lord General Sir Gwyn Jenkins said the Service’s Honorary Officers were “carefully selected for the experience, expertise and inspiration they can bring to the Royal Navy” – all distinguished individuals who share its values and contribute to society across the board.