Coldplay
Biography
Coldplay is a British rock band that formed in London in 1997. The lineup consists of vocalist and pianist Chris Martin, guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman, and drummer Will Champion. The members met at University College London and initially went by the names Big Fat Noises and later Starfish. Phil Harvey is considered the band's fifth member and creative director.
Formation and Early Years (1997–1999)
Chris Martin and Jonny Buckland met during their university's orientation week in 1996 and began writing songs together. Guy Berryman joined them soon after, followed by Will Champion, who learned to play the drums for the band. They released their first EP, 'Safety', in 1998, which led to a record deal with Parlophone in 1999.
Breakthrough with Parachutes (2000–2001)
Coldplay's debut album, Parachutes, was released in July 2000 and quickly shot to number one on the UK Albums Chart. The album featured the breakthrough single "Yellow," which became a top-five hit in the UK and brought the band international attention. Other singles from the album included "Shiver," "Trouble," and "Don't Panic." Parachutes won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album in 2002.
A Rush of Blood to the Head and Global Success (2002–2004)
The band's second album, A Rush of Blood to the Head, released in 2002, cemented their status as a global phenomenon. It featured hit singles like "In My Place," "The Scientist," and the Grammy Award-winning "Clocks." The album received critical acclaim and won the Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album.
X&Y and Continued Popularity (2005–2007)
Coldplay's third album, X&Y, was released in 2005 and became the best-selling album of that year, topping charts in over 30 countries. The album included the popular singles "Speed of Sound," "Fix You," and "Talk." While some critics noted a shift in their sound, the album was a massive commercial success.
Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends (2008–2010)
With their fourth album, Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, released in 2008, Coldplay experimented with a new sound, collaborating with producer Brian Eno. The album was a critical and commercial success, winning the Grammy Award for Best Rock Album. The title track, "Viva la Vida," became the band's first single to reach number one in both the US and the UK.
Mylo Xyloto and Electronic Influences (2011–2013)
Released in 2011, Mylo Xyloto was a concept album that tells a love story in a dystopian world. The album featured a more pop and electronic sound, with hits like "Paradise" and "Princess of China," a collaboration with Rihanna.
Later Albums and Evolving Sound (2014–Present)
Coldplay has continued to evolve their sound with subsequent albums. Ghost Stories (2014) was a more somber and introspective album, while A Head Full of Dreams (2015) returned to a more upbeat and anthemic style. Everyday Life (2019) was an experimental double album, and Music of the Spheres (2021) is a space-themed concept album featuring collaborations with artists like BTS and Selena Gomez. Their tenth album, Moon Music, was released in 2024.
Activism and Philanthropy
Coldplay is well-known for their social activism and philanthropic efforts. They have supported numerous charities and campaigns, including Oxfam's Make Trade Fair and Amnesty International. The band donates 10% of their profits to charitable causes.
Live Performances
Coldplay is renowned for their energetic and visually spectacular live performances. They have headlined major festivals like Glastonbury and have embarked on numerous successful worldwide tours, including the A Head Full of Dreams Tour and the Music of the Spheres World Tour. Their tours are known for their innovative use of technology, such as the use of LED wristbands.