The singer ushered in the Queen with a rendition of Paul McCartney’s song
Susan Boyle helped open the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Scotland yesterday with a rendition of “Mull of Kintyre.”Scroll to see video
The Scottish singer, who was born and raised in West Lothian, said she was “proud” to be performing on home ground in Glasgow’s Celtic Park at the opening ceremony.
Originally written by Paul McCartney and Denny Laine, “Mull of Kintyre” is a tribute to the picturesque Kintyre peninsula in western Scotland.
Boyle, who ushered in the Queen with her performance, said she was nervous to sing in front of the British monarch and head of the Commonwealth.
The Britain’s Got Talent star was joined by Scottish rock legend Rod Stewart and classical violinist Nicola Benedetti.
Cockney-sounding Stewart prompted questions about his Scottish heritage having never lived in Scotland. The singer was born and raised in north London to a Scottish father.
Billy Connolly, perhaps the most famous living Scot of all, took part in the opening ceremony via videolink to proclaim Glasgow’s support for the late South African President Nelson Mandela.
Scottish comedian Karen Dunbar welcomed the sporting nations to Scotland to mark the official start of the 11-day tournament.
The closing ceremony will take place at Hampden Park on the south side of the city on 3 August. Kylie Minogue has been booked to perform.