Henry VIII was the superstar of the Tudor period - and arguably still is one. Few other historical characters still inspire as many books, films, TV series and other forms of popular culture.

He was a pioneer in using his own image to emphasise his masculinity, power and wealth – definitely the first King of Bling. This video parallels his use with that of contemporary performers and celebrities. If Henry was alive today, who knows what means he would use to present a flattering image of himself and reach a mass audience? Maybe this…

He also had a genuine love of music – with two of the songs featured here having been composed by Henry himself.

The challenge...

Can you identify the seven famous music videos Henry has parodied in the video above (or should that be all those who’ve been parodying Henry all these years)?

The downloads...

Can you out-perform the King by downloading the music or video clips below and creating your own version? You can either sing or play along to the clips, or create a new film for the soundtrack.

Download the music as MP3 and shoot your own video
Download the video clips and create your own soundtrack

The competition...

Thanks to everyone who entered the competition to out-perform Henry (closing date 1 October 2010). Here is Henry's favourite, congratulations to David W Solomons and his one-man multitrack choir dwsChorale. View here

The playlist...

1) Fanfare based upon Helas Madame  
2) Pastime With Good Company     
3) And I were a Maiden
4) Blow thy Horn Hunter 
5) Greensleeves

The performers...

Singers: Jo Ferris, Lauren Johnson, Darren Ormandy and Ellis Pike (as Henry) all courtesy of Past Pleasures. Musicians: Michael Sargeant & Dante Ferrara. Music arranged by Noise of Minstrels

Media enquiries should be made to Tim Powell in the Historic Royal Palaces press office at tim.powell@hrp.org.uk or on 0203 166 6305.