Coldplay
From WikiColdplay
Coldplay is an English rock band from London. Formed in 1997, Coldplay achieved worldwide fame with their 2000 single "Yellow", followed by the success of their debut album, Parachutes. The group comprises vocalist Chris Martin, guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman and drummer Will Champion.
Coldplay's early material was often compared to acts such as Jeff Buckley and Radiohead, while also drawing comparisons to U2. Since the release of Parachutes, Coldplay have also drawn influence from other sources, including Echo and the Bunnymen and George Harrison on A Rush of Blood to the Head (2002) and Johnny Cash and Kraftwerk for X&Y (2005), the band's third release.Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends is the fourth studio album by English alternative rock band Coldplay, released 17 June 2008 on Parlophone Records. Recording sessions for the album took place during June 2007 to April 2008 and featured production by Jon Hopkins, Rik Simpson, Markus Dravs, and Brian Eno.
Coldplay have been active supporters of various social and political causes, such as Oxfam's Make Trade Fair campaign and Amnesty International. The group has also performed at various charity projects such as Band Aid 20, Live 8, and the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Contents |
History
Formation and early years (1996–1999)
The members of the band met at Ramsay Hall, a residence hall at University College London in September 1996. Chris Martin and Jonny Buckland were the first members of the band, having met one another during their orientation week. They spent the rest of the year planning a band, with their efforts culminating in an *NSYNC-inspired boy band called Pectoralz. Eventually Guy Berryman, a classmate of the two, joined the ranks without consideration of what musical direction the band was taking.
By 1997, Coldplay were performing small club gigs for local Camden promoters. By that time, the band had renounced their earlier boy-band flavoured aspirations, and changed their name to Starfish. Martin also had recruited his erstwhile school friend Phil Harvey, who was studying classics at Oxford, to act as band manager. Harvey managed the band until the release of their second album, A Rush of Blood to the Head.
Finally, in early 1998, the band's line-up was complete when Will Champion joined the band to take up percussion duties. The multi-talented Champion had grown up playing piano, guitar, bass, and tin whistle; he quickly learned the drums, despite having no previous experience with that instrument. At the time, the band still performed under the name Starfish. Eventually , a mutual friend of the band - Tim from the band 'The HIgh Wire' (not Tim Rice-Oxley, as previously reported), gave the band permission to use the name "Coldplay", which he had rejected for his band as he thought it was "too depressing". The name also comes from a collection of poems by Philip Horky.
On May 18, 1998, the band released 500 copies of the Safety EP. Most of the discs were given to record companies and friends; only 50 copies remained for sale to the public. In December, Coldplay signed to indie label Fierce Panda. The result was the three track EP Brothers & Sisters which was quickly recorded over four days in February 1999. The disc was released in April and was limited to only 2,500 copies. Interest in the band was slowly growing across the UK, helped by regular airplay from BBC Radio 1 DJ Steve Lamacq and BMG Music Publishing, which had signed the band to a development deal.
After completing their final examinations, Coldplay signed to Parlophone for a five-album contract in the spring of 1999. After making their first appearance at Glastonbury, the band went into studio to record a third EP titled The Blue Room. The disc was released in October, and 5,000 copies were made available to the public. Its success in establishing Coldplay was aided immensely by the single "Bigger Stronger", which got airplay on Radio 1.
The recording sessions for The Blue Room were tumultuous. Martin kicked Champion out of the band but later pleaded with him to return and due to his guilt, Martin (a self-proclaimed non-drinker and non-smoker) went on a drinking binge. Eventually, the band worked out their differences and put in place a new set of rules to keep the group intact. First, the band declared an all-for-one approach: Coldplay was a democracy, and profits were to be shared equally, taking a page from bands like A-ha, U2 and R.E.M. Second, the band would fire anyone who used hard drugs.
Parachutes (1999–2001)
In November 1999, Coldplay focused efforts on their debut album. The band spent the New Year by completing album tracks "Yellow" and "Everything's Not Lost". They also played on the NME Carling Premier Tour, which showcased up-and-coming acts. After releasing three EPs without a hit song, Coldplay scored their first Top 40 single, "Shiver". Released in March 2000, the single placed at a modest #35 and earned the band their first airplay on MTV. June 2000 was a pivotal moment in Coldplay's history. The band embarked on their first headlining tour, which included a triumphant return to Glastonbury. More notably, the band released the breakthrough single, "Yellow". The song shot to #4 on the UK Singles Chart and placed the band in public consciousness.
Coldplay released their first full-length album, Parachutes, in July 2000, which debuted at #1 on the UK Albums Chart. Along with critical acclaim, Parachutes was sometimes criticised for bearing a strong resemblance to the music of alt-rock band Radiohead in their The Bends–OK Computer era. "Yellow" and "Trouble" earned regular radio airplay on both sides of the Atlantic. Parlophone originally predicted sales of 40,000 units of Parachutes; by Christmas, 1.6 million copies had been sold in the United Kingdom alone. Parachutes was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize in September 2000.
Having found success in Europe, the band set their sights on North America. Parachutes was released in November 2000. The band embarked on a US club tour in early 2001, beginning with a show in Vancouver, Canada, which was coupled with appearances on Saturday Night Live, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, and The Late Show with David Letterman. Parachutes was a slow burning success, and was certified with double-platinum status in the United States. The album was also critically well-received, earning Best Alternative Music Album honours at the 2002 Grammy Awards.
A Rush of Blood to the Head (2001–2004)
Coldplay returned working in October 2001 to begin work on their second album. With much anticipation, Coldplay released A Rush of Blood to the Head in August 2002.
The opening track, "Politik", was written days after the September 11 terrorist attacks. The album spawned many popular singles, notably "In My Place", "The Scientist", and "Clocks".
Coldplay toured for over a year, from June 2002 to September 2003, visiting five continents including co-headlining festival dates at Glastonbury Festival, V Festival, and Rock Werchter. The tour showed the band's progression into a bona fide stadium act. Many shows included elaborate lighting and individualised screens reminiscent of U2's Elevation tour. During the extended tour, Coldplay also recorded a live DVD and CD, Live 2003, at Sydney's Hordern Pavilion. The compilation featured a new song, "Moses".
In December 2003, they were named by readers of Rolling Stone magazine as the best artist and the best band of the year. At that time Coldplay covered The Pretenders' hit "2000 Miles", which was made available for download on their official site. It was the top selling UK download that year, with proceeds from the sales donated to Future Forests and Stop Handgun Violence campaigns. A Rush of Blood to the Head won two trophies at the 2003 Grammy Awards. At the 2004 Grammy Awards, Coldplay earned Record of the Year honours for Clocks. The album was also named to Rolling Stone's 2003 list of the 500 Greatest Albums at number 473.
X&Y (2004–2006)
2004 was a quiet year for Coldplay, as they spent most of the year out of spotlight resting from touring and recording their third album. In May, Coldplay teased fans with a new song and music video on their official site to celebrate the birth of Apple, Martin's daughter with his wife, actress Gwyneth Paltrow. Famed producer Sir George Martin introduced the promo as Coldplay and their producer, Ken Nelson, performed as The Nappies, a satirised rap/glam rock outfit. Martin joked that this music had been inspired by Jay-Z.
Coldplay's third album, X&Y, was released on 6 June 2005 in the UK. This new, delayed release date had put the album back into the next fiscal year, actually causing EMI's stock to drop. It became the best-selling album of 2005 with worldwide sales of 8.3 million. The lead single, "Speed of Sound", made its radio and online music store debut on 18 April and was released as a CD on 23 May, 2005. The album debuted at #1 in 28 countries worldwide and was the second fastest selling album in UK chart history. Two other singles were released that year: "Fix You" in September and "Talk" in December. In May 2006 the band released "The Hardest Part" in several countries outside the UK. Despite the commercial success, the critical reaction to X&Y was less unanimous in its praise than the reviews for its predecessor.
From June 2005 to July 2006, Coldplay went on their Twisted Logic tour, which has included festival dates like Coachella, Glastonbury and the Austin City Limits Music Festival. For the 2006 tour, the band completed a third visit in the same tour to North America with dates from late January (Seattle) to early April (Philadelphia).
In July 2005, the band appeared at Live 8 in Hyde Park, where they played a rendition of The Verve's "Bittersweet Symphony" with Richard Ashcroft on vocals. In September, Coldplay recorded a new version of "How You See the World" with reworked lyrics to War Child's Help: A Day in the Life charity album. In February 2006, Coldplay earned Best Album and Best Single honours at the Brit Awards. In his acceptance speech, lead singer Chris Martin raised rumours of a band split when he announced in manner "This (award) means so much to us, especially now. It's going to be a few years before you see us again." The band's label have refuted these claims as they have two more albums in contract.
Viva La Vida (or Death and All His Friends) (2008)
The band began to work on their fourth studio album, Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, in October 2006, with Brian Eno as producer. Coldplay took a break from recording and toured Latin America in early 2007, including shows in Chile, Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico. The band revealed that the album seemed to be shaping up with Hispanic influences, after having recorded in churches and other areas in Latin America and Spain during their tour. The group spent the rest of the year recording, mainly with Brian Eno.
Chris Martin described Viva la Vida as a new direction for Coldplay: a change from their past three albums, which they have referred to as a "trilogy". He said the album featured less falsetto as he allowed his voice's lower register to take precedence. Some songs, such as "Violet Hill", contain distorted guitar riffs and bluesy undertones. "Violet Hill" was confirmed as the first single, with a radio release date of 29 April 2008. After the first play, it was freely obtainable from Coldplay's website from 12:15 pm (GMT +0) for one week (achieving two million downloads), until it became commercially available to download on 6 May. "[[Violet Hill[[" entered the UK Top 10, US Top 40 (entering the Top 10 in the Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart) and charted well in the rest of the world.
The title track, "Viva la Vida", was also released exclusively on iTunes. It became the band's first number one on the Billboard Hot 100, and their first UK number one, based on download sales alone. On 15 June 2008, Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends topped the UK album chart, despite having been on sale for only three days. In that time, it sold 302,000 copies; the BBC called it "one of the fastest-selling records in UK history". By the end of June, it had set a new record for most-downloaded album ever. In October 2008, Coldplay won two Q Awards for Best Album for Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends and Best Act in the World Today. The band followed up the album with the Prospekt's March EP which was released on 21 November 2008. The EP features tracks from the Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends sessions and, as well as being available on its own, was available as a bonus disc with later editions of Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends. The song "Life in Technicolor II" was released as a single on 9 February 2009.
On 16 June 2008, Coldplay began their Viva La Vida Tour with a free concert at Brixton Academy in London. This was followed two days later by a 45-minute performance that was broadcast live from outside BBC Television Centre. "Lost!" became the third single from the album, featuring a new version with Jay-Z. During an interview with Zane Lowe for BBC Radio 1 on 16 October, Martin suggested that the band were trying to book Knebworth House in Hertfordshire for a concert in 2009. Coldplay performed the opening set on 14 March 2009 for Sound Relief at the Sydney Cricket Ground and then played a sold-out concert later that same night. Sound Relief is a benefit concert for victims of the Victorian Bushfire Crisis and the Queensland Floods. Appearing with Coldplay at the Sydney concert were Eskimo Joe, Hoodoo Gurus, Icehouse, Josh Pyke, Little Birdy, The Presets, Wolfmother, You Am I, Kings of Leon and additional artists.
On 20 January 2009, it was announced that Coldplay had been nominated for four BRIT Awards: British Group, British Live Act, British Single ("Viva la Vida") and British Album (Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends). At the 51st Grammy Awards on 8 February 2009, Coldplay won three Grammys in the categories for Song of Year for "Viva la Vida", Best Rock Album for Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, and Best Vocal Pop Performance by a Duo or Group for "Viva la Vida".
On 1 May 2009, the band announced on their official website that they would be giving away a live CD, entitled LeftRightLeftRightLeft, at the remaining concerts of their Viva La Vida Tour. The album is also available as a free download from their website beginning 15 May 2009. The nine tracks were recorded at various shows during the tour.
Political and social activism
Despite Coldplay's large worldwide popularity, the band have remained protective of how their music is used in the media, refusing its use for product endorsements. In the past, Coldplay turned down multi-million dollar contracts from Gatorade, Diet Coke, and Gap, who wanted to use the songs "Yellow", "Trouble", and "Don't Panic" respectively. According to Martin, "We wouldn't be able to live with ourselves if we sold the songs' meanings like that."
Coldplay are a supporter of Amnesty International. Chris Martin is also noted as one of the most visible celebrity advocates for "fair trade", supporting Oxfam's Make Trade Fair campaign until its dissolution in 2005 after the G8 summit in Gleneagles. Martin has been on trips with Oxfam to assess conditions, has appeared in its advertising campaign, and is known for wearing a "Make Trade Fair" wristband during public appearances, including at Coldplay concerts.
Martin was outspoken against the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and he endorsed Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry in 2004. Although he is not a U.S. citizen, Martin's wife, Gwyneth Paltrow, is; both currently live in London and Los Angeles.
In the band's early years, Coldplay were also widely noted in the media for their claim to give 10% of the band's profits to charity. Bassist Guy Berryman said, "You can make people aware of issues. It isn't very much effort for us at all, but if it can help people, then we want to do it". The band also asks that any gifts intended for them are donated to charity, according to a response on the FAQ section of Coldplay's website.
Coldplay parodied their own highly publicised stance on political and social issues with a cameo in the 2004 film Shaun of the Dead, appearing on TV within the film to support the charity "Zombaid" (a pun on Live Aid), a charity dedicated to giving zombies better political rights. Martin also played himself on an episode of Extras in which he shamelessly took advantage of a public service announcement shoot to promote a fictitious Greatest Hits album.
Discography
 Brothers & Sisters EP |
 The Blue Room EP |
 Parachutes |
|
 A Rush of Blood to the Head |
 Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends |
 Prospekt's March EP |
Awards
See Awards
The Oracle on Coldplay
July 2, 2012 - submitted by Kane, Canada
Q. Dear Oracle,
Has the band ever considered doing an acoustic album? Because I've been listening to acoustic versions of their songs on YouTube and they're just beautiful. Thanks and hope you answer!
The Oracle replies:
The band did consider doing an acoustic album as it goes. In fact, before Mylo Xyloto was written and recorded, album five was intended to be an acoustic affair.
Have you heard this by the way?
June 27, 2012 - submitted by Martin, Costa Rica
Q. Hello dear Oracle,
I have seen interviews of Chris and Jonny, Will and Guy, etc... but never seen Will and Jonny together in any interview. Why is that? Also, is that true that one was the marriage best man of the other? Thanks!
The Oracle replies:
The usual set up is Chris / Jonny & Will / Guy but for no sinister reason.
It's just the dynamics of those pairings work really well in an interview situation and are usually convenient.
There are video examples of a different formation here, here and here amongst others. One of Will & Jonny was not uncovered and leads me to wonder if that combo has ever taken place - as you ask.
I've interviewed Guy, Jonny & Will but don't recall a time when It was J&W together.
Oh and no, they haven't had any kind of rota on best man duties.
June 19, 2012 - submitted by Esmeralda, United States of America
Q. Hi Oracle! I was wondering if the band is always this funny when they are among themselves like in this video.
Thank you.
The Oracle replies:
I have to admit that they are still this funny and do have a laugh in the studio and on tour. They're not making little films out of it but their sense of humour lives on!
It was great to see that video after such a long time. That was filmed TEN years ago!
June 7, 2012 - submitted by James, United Kingdom
Q. Dear Oracle,
I was suprised/disappointed when Coldplay were not at the Diamond Jubilee concert, because Chris and Gary Barlow are friends and Coldplay were in London at the time, so was it that Coldplay were never invited to perform or they were and refused?
Thanks
The Oracle replies:
Yes, Coldplay were in London at the time but performing their 3rd and final London show at the Emirates Stadium - that Gary Barlow attended on the first night.
They were asked to but as you now know, they were unable to.
May 28, 2012 - submitted by Giulia, Italy
Q. Dear Oracle, I have two questions for you.
1. I read on internet (I don't remember where) that Guy was the Coldplay singer before Chris. Is this true? Didn't Chris joined Coldplay before Guy?
2. On Instagram, there is someone who's calling himself "officialcoldplay". It's a fake, isn't it?
Thank you,
an Italian coldplayer/xylobryte.
Ps: The concert in Turin was amazing!
The Oracle replies:
1. No, it's not true. Yes, Chris 'joined' Coldplay before Guy. Well, Chris didn't join as he started the band in the first place.
2. Yes, it is. There isn't an official Coldplay instagram account.
May 21, 2012 - submitted by Nicoletta, Italy
Q. Hi!
I wrote here just because I couldn't (and I can't) wait to see Coldplay in Nice tomorrow.
When Coldplay perform in a concert of a determined tour (for example Mylo Xyloto), do they play any song of the previous albums? I ask it because if they play songs like Clocks or Yellow tomorrow, I'll be the happiest girl in the world.
Thank you so much!
The Oracle replies:
I too am going to Nice tomorrow and am pretty excited - thought not about the weather that is forecast. The rain seems to be following the tour!
They always play a selection of songs and they are from all albums.
I don't like giving away setlists in advance but as last night's is available online I'm not spoiling anything by telling you that you won't be disappointed Nicoletta.
May 15, 2012 - submitted by Karen, France
Q. Hello dear Oracle,
I was wondering if the boys always rehearse a bit before each show.
Thank you ! :)
The Oracle replies:
They rehearse before a tour plus there are intense production rehearsals to make sure all the lights, sounds, effects etc. work with the set and everything's running smoothly.
They don't rehearse before each show though they sometimes pick up guitars in the dressing room and jam. There are of course soundchecks where they run through a song or two - if they attend. I've mentioned before that they're not always able to so the crew stand in for them.
They always warm up vocally before every live performance though.
May 9, 2012 - submitted by Trinity, United Kingdom
Q. Hi Oracle,
Do the band always do sound checks before each show? And do they ever let members of the public in to watch (with a bought ticket obviously!)
In the words of Coldplay "I'll see you soon!" (quite literally, in 21 days )
The Oracle replies:
The band don't always attend sounchecks; sometimes the crew step in and test the levels. There have been what are known as soundcheck parties where fans have won the chance to be there while the band soundcheck.
There was also an occasion back in 2010 when the band were in Liverpool to play one of the Crisis gigs. Fans had been queuing outside in the snow so we decided to invite them in to watch and warm up a little.
It was quite amusing as we had to usher fans out before the last song because we didn't want anything to give away the surprise of their special guest. Back For Good was quietly practised before Gary Barlow's arrival.
May 3, 2012 - submitted by Daniel, United States of America
Q. Hello! Do Coldplay's supporting acts such as Rita Ora or Frank Ocean travel together with Coldplay and spend time with the band? I'm a huge fan of all the supporting acts and I was just wondering if they're all close friends. Sorry if this question is worded weirdly, but thanks!!!
The Oracle replies:
When the band toured Latin America in 2010, the opening act did travel with Coldplay, as did everyone. Coldplay's crew, Bat For Lashes' crew and all personnel travelled on a chartered plane for convenience Plus it kept costs down. The band had built up a great rapport with Bat For Lashes on a previous tour so invited them to travel with the band party.
To answer your question, no, it's not usual for the support bands to travel with the band. I'm pretty sure they're not close friends either.
I read a hideous story the other day about security for a well-known artist telling the support act to face the wall rather than look at the megastar. I can assure you, no such behaviour goes on with Coldplay.
April 30, 2012 - submitted by Piyush, India
Q. Hi Oracle. I have noticed several pictures of a Coldplay Aeroplane (Coldplay written on the outer body) on the internet. I want to know if any such thing really exists officially or those picture are just photoshopped? although I do know that the band travels in a private chartered plane.
Thanks.
The Oracle replies:
The band have never owned a plane. What you may have seen is a chartered plane that has been branded with Coldplay on it for the tour. That's quite usual.
April 26, 2012 - submitted by Sarah, France
Q. Hello Oracle,
Have Coldplay ever thought of adding a feminine voice to their songs. I am not talking about a duet like they did with Rihanna in Princess of China, but about a feminine voice to sing one of their songs (existing or future) with them.
Thank you for your answer!
The Oracle replies:
Other than Rihanna which is a duet, there actually has also been a recording with another female vocalist.
Rainy Day from Prospekt's March features Emily Bart-Smith on backing vocals.
April 25, 2012 - submitted by Lauren, United Kingdom
Q. Are there any songs the guys have wrote about themselves as a band or are there any songs about anyone in the band beside Chris?
The Oracle replies:
I think many of us know that Green Eyes was partly written about Jonny (awwww) and although songs have been written for and inspired by people close, I think that's the only one.
I do recall that Help Is Around the Corner - the b side to Yellow - was written about the band's situation whilst recording the first album during their studio stint at Parr St, Liverpool.
April 11, 2012 - submitted by Vickie, Czech Republic
Q. Dear Oracle,
I love Coldplay's colorful video clips and I was wondering, how long does it take to create one like Every Teardrop is a Waterfall or Strawberry Swing? It seems really complicated with all the colors and I can imagine how time consuming it may be. I would also like to ask if there is/are some artist/s helping with those clips?
Thank you,
Vickie :)
The Oracle replies:
I'll start with the ones you mentioned, the actual filming of ETIAW took 2 days in London.
Even though both had significant live artwork taking place around the action, the Strawberry Swing video took much longer. Chris was only on set for one day of filming (after costume fittings etc. but there was a lot of prep. That video was also particularly difficult because of all the chalk drawings that were done and the frame by frame technique.
Videos can be very time consuming but the band don't always have a lot of time so their involvement would usually be 1-2 days depending on the schedule and of course what they are needed for. Behind the scenes however there is a lot of preparation and after the shoot, editing and whatnot. Sometimes a video is needed in a turnaround period of 2 weeks but the average process is around 6 weeks.
Videos like Fix You & Lost which both feature live footage usually only involve the band performing the song twice on a couple of nights and again, it's the other shots and editing that take longer to complete the final film.
The Scientist took a month to prepare (it was also the length of time it took for Chris to learn the lyrics backwards) and a further 2 weeks of work.
Yellow's video was a 12-hour day but took less than an hour to shoot - running through the song 5 times.
Each video will not only have band input but the director's who will also work with a team of people to get the look just right so yes, there are artists (in a broader sense of the word) involved.
April 10, 2012 - submitted by Chloe, Hong Kong
Q. Dear Oracle, the mighty mighty Oracle,
Hello there! :)
Since the London Olympics is coming I wondered if the boys would stay in London a few days to watch the games? Or, are they on tour at that time?
All the best,
Chloe
The Oracle replies:
The first part of the Olympics run from 27th July to 12th August the duration of which the band will be on tour. They're performing in Montreal at the start and will play St. Paul the day before the closing ceremony.
April 5, 2012 - submitted by Abby, Philippines
Q. Dear Oracle,
I read a quote from AROBTTH Wikipedia page lately, which says that "For the album's singles, Martin asked Sundsbo what he could do; the latter suggested scanning the head of each member of the band". Then I check out the pictures of the single covers (In My Place, GPASUYF, The Scientist, and Clocks), but I couldn't tell which faces of band members was among what single cover . I could only guess about it. My question is if which head was taken for which single cover? Please Answer. Thanks :)
Abby, Philippines
The Oracle replies:
Solve Sundsbo's artwork for AROBTTH and its subsequent singles is quite abstract. I do struggle myself to work out the covers for In My Place & Clocks but I have no doubt about Will & Guy's likeness.
Here's what I think:
In My Place - Jonny
The Scientist - Will
Clocks - Chris
GPASUYF - Guy
March 29, 2012 - submitted by George, United Kingdom
Q. Hello Oracle,
I was wondering, with the band travelling across the globe so often to so many places, has there ever been a bad flight experience? (emergency landings, horrendous turbulance)
thanks :)
The Oracle replies:
Yes, inevitably there have been many patches of turbulence over the years but a couple of really bad moments do sprint to my mind.
One I was present for. We were in a very small plane from Vegas to Palm Springs for a Coachella performance. I honestly thought I should try and call home to say my goodbyes as the plane took dips like a rollercoaster. Really rather frightening.
I don't suppose that compares to when Chris went on an Oxfam trip. The plane hit a dust patch on landing causing Chris to fear for his life!
March 20, 2012 - submitted by Valentina, Denmark
Q. Dear Oracle,
I was listening to a live version of In My Place and I heard Chris say that Jonny actually wrote that song. I also remember Chris mentioning that Square One was written by Jonny jamming with Will. I was under the impression all melodies came from Chris and then were worked together by the band, but are there actually songs whose melody comes from someone other than Chris? And which other songs are Jonny's then? :)
The Oracle replies:
Chris comes up with the majority of the melodies but regardless the band often come up with individual parts, hooks, riffs, fills etc. Some songs do start as a jam and if someone has a great idea, it becomes the reason for continuing and forming a new song. Jonny did come up with the instantly recognisable guitar hook for In My Place. As far as I know, Square One comprises many different elements from the band and a riff from Matt McGinn.
I can't answer your question other than to say no other songs are Jonny's - they are all Coldplay's.
March 19, 2012 - submitted by Erick, Brazil
Q. Is Chris or the band working on the London Olympics theme song or not ?
The Oracle replies:
Not. Guy Garvey & Elbow on the other hand, are.
March 14, 2012 - submitted by StRanger, Finland
Q. Hi The Oracle, who knows everything (yeah?). I guess I can find this somewhere in the big Internet-world with a little moment searching but I make you this question anyway. Uhm, after these long storys there's the question:
What is the font Coldplay used in Parachutes until Viva la Vida and what is that font they use in Mylo Xyloto (in album covers etc)? Can I download them somewhere?
Hope you answer and have a nice day! (And I hope this text is understandable)
The Oracle replies:
The font used for Parachutes is available yes, it's called Albertus. Our MX font isn't as it is a bespoke bubble font.
March 14, 2012 - submitted by Isabel, United Kingdom
Q. Where have Coldplay toured? I need a list of all the places they have ever toured/peformed?
Quick as possible please!!
The Oracle replies:
We don't have a gigography Isabel but there are plenty of resources online that contain their live shows to date. Try clicking here, here and here.
March 8, 2012 - submitted by Vasilis, Greece
Q. Hey Oracle. I am a huge fun of Coldplay I know their entire discography. I have noticed that many songs are related to China for example Princess of China, Chinese Sleep Chant etc. What is that made Coldplay write songs about that country? Thanks a lot...
The Oracle replies:
Regular readers will know that I cannot resist sarcasm. I tried, but I'm sorry I couldn't stop myself.
What are the etc. songs you refer to? I also know their entire discography and as far as I can recall, there are only those 2 songs you mention that refer to China.
They have mentioned other places:
Amsterdam
Lovers In Japan
Cemeteries of London
Anyway, joking aside, I don't think there's a particular reason that China was chosen for the titles of those 2 tracks; I'd guess they both sounded right.
March 5, 2012 - submitted by Sienna, United States of America
Q. Is there a band pet? Or at least, do the guys have pets?
The Oracle replies:
I'd like to jest that I am the band's pet but no, there isn't one. There are pets within the band's families but truth be told, other that Chris' dog & Phil's dog, I don't know who has what. Guy used to have a rabbit years ago...
February 23, 2012 - submitted by Lily, United Kingdom
Q. Do you know what modern American (rock) bands that anyone from Coldplay (Chris in particular) likes? To be honest, I think American bands are terrible compared to our great British bands, so I was wondering what kind of American bands the group enjoys. Maybe if I listen to them my opinion of American bands will change.
The Oracle replies:
Wow Lily, I'm quite surprised because although there are (in our own personal opinions) rather a lot of well under par bands all over the world, the U.S has provided us with some astonishingly great artists over the years.
I thank America for Beck, Aerosmith, Jeff Buckley, Soundgarden, Nirvana, Santana, Blondie, Sly & the Family Stone, Pearl Jam, Jimi Hendrix, Ryan Adams and The Black Keys to name some of my personal favourites.
I'm going to include solo artists in the list you asked for but it's not a definitive list by a long way; just a few varied examples of what the band like or listen to.
REM, The Flaming Lips, Foster the People, Tom Waits, Foo Fighters, Kings of Leon, The Strokes, Prince, Kanye West, Rihanna, Lady GaGa and Jay Z.
After The Brits, an article appeared on a blog that I did find of some interest. Maybe you will too given what you said.
February 20, 2012 - submitted by Becky, United States of America
Q. If someone writes a song for Coldplay would the band mates accept it?
The Oracle replies:
No lovely they wouldn't - that goes for lyrics and or/music. I usually advise people with writing talents to get in touch with The Guild of International Songwriters & Composers.
February 8, 2012 - submitted by Playcooll, India
Q. Same question again, where I can find all Coldplay songs proper interpretations?
Waiting for a reply
Thankyu.
The Oracle replies:
I know you've sent this question a few times and just want to say you only need to send a question once.
There is nowhere to find song interpretations. I'm sorry that this means quite a lot of people who don't have English as a first language won't always understand the lyrics' meanings but to be honest, even some English speakers don't.
I don't personally know of any band that openly explain their songs or have a place where the meanings are all revealed.
I have said before that one of the main reasons Chris doesn't want their lyrics in the CD booklet is because he likes fans to make their own interpretations. I know he likes to know lyrics to his favourite songs though so eventually we added all Coldplay lyrics to our site.
February 2, 2012 - submitted by Karina, United States of America
Q. When did the band start to realize they wanted to become famous?
The Oracle replies:
They didn't. There's a huge difference between wanting to be successful in a band and being famous. I do know that when asked what they want to be when they grow up/leave school lots of people say they want to be famous, but more now than ever because of reality television shows. Many of them aren't particularly talented but have become celebrities. It's easy to be famous but not easy to sustain a career if there's nothing to back it up.
The band wanted to make music and to make a decent living from it, that's really the only way to think when you're a musician.
January 31, 2012 - submitted by Jeremy, Canada
Q. Dear YOU.
I was wondering if you guys kept or are in possession of old props of band history or whatnot? I know those puppets are toast, but like, the bibliography cover in the LIT2 video, or stuff like that?
Thanks.
The Oracle replies:
There haven't been all that many props featured in the band's videos other than the ones you mention - apart from Talk.
As you may know the Strawberry Swing outfit was auctioned off in the End Of Decade Sale along with the Parachutes globe which Id say is the most important historical item.
The puppets from LiTii were the only prop kept and used. They are in a bag right here in my living room but were sold for charity this week despite their absolutely battered state. They are literally held together with sticky putty and safety pins with their limbs falling off (RIP).
The book in the same video wasn't real (mocked up cover) and neither was the record in Christmas Lights (mocked up centre).
The band's stuff goes in to storage as there's such a lot of it. There's not always sentimental value to warrant anyone keeping it at home for example. They were sorry to see many of their guitars go in the auction but at the same time, happy to raise money for charity. It got to the stage where it wasn't practical keeping everything. It's not like they saw it all given it was in storage.
That said, the aforementioned auction means there's not as much as there was.
January 30, 2012 - submitted by Maria P, United States of America
Q. I'm just curious after all the travel who from the band is the one that wants to practice less than usual? After a while!! Lol.
The Oracle replies:
They all like a decent amount of downtime before they get back into the studio especially after a long tour. To answer the question, other than Chris - who is the first to get into writing etc. I'd say it's a pretty close run thing but maybe Guy, by a tiny bit.
January 19, 2012 - submitted by Tarang, Malaysia
Q. Hey Oracle,
Is there any possibility of Coldplay combining all their unreleased songs into one album? I'm sure a lot of the fans would love it! :)
The Oracle replies:
That would be a box set! There are dozens and dozens if unreleased songs. They would never combine them all for an album. I'm sure fans would love it but the band would probably agree that they remain unreleased for a reason; they weren't happy to release them in the first place.
That said, some songs may be reincarnated, resurrected or restructured in the future. Old songs can sometimes lie forgotten until a time when a new song breathes new life into an old one.
January 17, 2012 - submitted by Mohamed, Egypt
Q. Dear Oracle,
I hope that you answer this question, I asked a dozen questions before but of no use. Anyways, I wanted to know where the boys prefer to stay when they visit cities on tour? Do they choose specific hotels or just the nearest hotel to the gig?
Thank you.
The Oracle replies:
The band have a Tour Manager who books the hotels but it's never based on how close the hotel is to the venue or airport these days. It's always a lovely hotel and they do often stay at the same places tour after tour.
January 17, 2012 - submitted by Eleanor, United States of America
Q. Hello,
I was curious to know with the band doing two nights in a number of North American cities does it give the guys a chance to explore the local scene and try a restaurant or does their fame and busy schedule keep them confined to their hotel?
Thanks
The Oracle replies:
They don't really have time to "explore" as such but Guy does go to local antiques shops / markets. If they have 2 shows at a venue, they will probably only be staying locally one night before leaving so there isn't all that much time to do anything. By the time they get back after a show, shower and perhaps have a late night supper they'll be up early to breakfast, train and then do it all over again.
If they have a night off at a hotel they may dine there but yes, sometimes they do go out to a local recommended restaurant. On the Latin American tour there were a few occasions where both those things happened plus a couple of nights at local bars. It's all quite low key apart from one uncomfortable time when we walked into a club and they immediately started playing a Coldplay song. We didn't stay long...
January 11, 2012 - submitted by Trevor, United States of America
Q. What does Coldplay do with their unreleased songs? Do they destroy them or do they put in a vault?
The Oracle replies:
They're not Prince; there is no vault. They don't "destroy" unreleased songs, they are safely stored. As you may know, some songs that were written years ago can become reincarnated or parts of them used on other songs in the future.
January 9, 2012 - submitted by Sharon, United Kingdom
Q. I see the guys have no tour dates between January and April. What are they up to in between? Any new studio material due perhaps?
The Oracle replies:
Blimey Sharon they've only just got going on the MX campaign so it's not likely they'd be heading back in the studio so soon. January always starts gently with family time and holidays before getting back to work. Work for the guys is all encompassing with promo, rehearsals and preparing for the upcoming tour. There will always be writing going on regardless of the schedule but no new recordings to be released at this early stage.
December 22, 2011 - submitted by Cydney, United States of America
Q. Does Coldplay have to go through the strict border crossing security things? If so, do they get tired of it?
The Oracle replies:
No matter whether the band travel on a private chartered plane or a commercial flight they go through the exact same passport control and security measure as the rest of us. I say "us" but having with the band I can vouch for this plus also share a story of a flight back from Paris a few years ago. It was Jonny's birthday and the band had been presented with several gifts that were sent to their dressing room after the plane's hold luggage had already been through security. We queued up taking off belts, shoes and all fluids in clear plastic bags etc. and we had a bottle of champagne for Jonny but it was taken off us as we went through the hand luggage checks. Ours was the only - and last - flight about to depart but it didn't matter who, what. where. why or when, that bottle was confiscated just as it would have been if it was anyone else. I was tempted to open it and drink it there and then. I was gutted.
December 19, 2011 - submitted by Ana Paula, Brazil
Q. Dear Oracle,
My 10-month-old son listens to Coldplay since the Glastonbury performance, which I taped. Since then, he got familiar to seeing Chris' face on TV and I easily calm him down and put him to sleep to Coldplay songs. My guess is that Viva La Vida and Us Against the World are his favourites. So, here's my question:
Wouldn't it be really awesome if the band recorded a baby version of their hit songs? Like, instrumental or acoustic versions of Yellow, Shiver, Fix You and ETIAW?
Thank you, Oracle. Cheers to the band!
The Oracle replies:
That's not going to happen. Or rather, the band won't be doing it but someone else already has!
I've been aware of companies like this for a while now and while I am not intending to direct traffic to their site for to buy you understand, I did once buy my Great Niece a copy of a Rock baby CD.
August 8, 2011 - submitted by Jordan, United States of America
Q. Hey all-knowing Oracle,
I was looking for Coldplay videos on YouTube and found one of them doing a cover for Amy Winehouse's Rehab. Is it possible that you'll make that an actual track, or will we have to hope someone gets better sound quality when they record it at a concert?
The Oracle replies:
Coldplay didn't do a cover of Rehab per se, Chris just sang the chorus refrain at the start of Fix You at a couple of recent shows. You can see a clip in the latest 42 blog.
August 4, 2011 - submitted by Emily, Mexico
Q. Q. Hi Oracle!
I know that Coldplay has a version of Billie Jean played at iHeartRadio, but at the beginning of the video Chris wrote their initials and above it a drawings like little faces? And what does the guys said at the first.
It's something like:
Guy: Hi we're Coldplay... And then I don't understand anything.
Thanks Oracle!
The Oracle replies:
As the radio station is called iHeartRadio they are saying "I heart" as in I love (That image is a TOTAL co-incidence so please don't read anything into it. I found it rather amusing, that is all...) followed by things they love. Shame we don't hear what Guy loves, as he's introducing the band but here's what they say:
Guy - Hi, we're Coldplay
Chris - I heart table tennis
Jonny - I heart Sherlock Holmes
Will - I heart radio (technically it's not that Will necessarily loves radio, he's plugging the station
August 2, 2011 - submitted by Laurens, Belgium
Q. Dear Oracle,
I watched iTunes festival and saw that the boys were very tired at the end! How physically demanding are festivals? How do you prepare yourself for something like that?
The Oracle replies:
To be honest Laurens, the iTunes festival isn't the same as a summer festival per se. It was a month long event with different headliners each night (plus supporting guests) at a relatively small indoor venue (The Roundhouse).
The reason the boys may have appeared tired is because the venue was blazing hot so it was more to do with heat than anything.
They had had a busy day however but they were in tip top shape.
Generally whether festivals or touring the band do prepare themselves physically with work out sessions and a healthy eating regime. Touring can be gruelling especially the last jaunt travelling to Japan then on to Australia and L.A in a short space of time.
July 21, 2011 - submitted by Tom, Belgium
Q. Dear Oracle,
Recently I heard certain artist can do this, so I was wondering; are the band's hands insured?
The Oracle replies:
I know that some pianists insure their hands, dancers insure their feet and singers insure their voices but no parts of the band's anatomy has been insured.
The insuring of attributes has been going on for a long while through the modern ages; Fred Astaire insured his feet, Betty Grable insured her legs and Dolly Parton has insured her... well, I think you can guess!
July 13, 2011 - submitted by Kieran, United Kingdom
Q. Hey Oracle!
After watching Coldplay via the BBC at T in the Park and Glasto, I saw that the setlists were virtually the same; is this usually the case for a tour/string of festivals? Don't the guys get just a little tired of the same order every night? AND the big question - why did they only play one X&Y song? In fact, Fix You is kind of a given for a Coldplay concert, so why essentially no songs from X&Y?
The Oracle replies:
Yes, it is very usual for bands to play the exact same set at festivals. Not just at festivals, but there's also little movement during a tour with few songs changing in and out. If you have seen Kings of Leon or Foo Fighters or Pulp or Beyonce over the summer, they have all stuck to the same set.
Bruce Springsteen does like to mix it up and bar a few tracks will have a different show every night, however, Bruce doesn't have the visuals/lights that Coldplay have. I know Radiohead once did a tour and changed the setlist every night, but had planned the tour to be that way deliberately.
I know a few people have been asking the same, "why only one song from X&Y?" and you're probably looking for a different reason than this: because they only chose Fix You from that album. It obviously means they didn't feel anything fits into the set coupled with not wanting to. They played Hardest Part on the last tour so it's not like they've ignored it as a whole since the Twisted Logic tour.
July 12, 2011 - submitted by Lorraine, Spain
Q. Dear Oracle
Do you know why the band chose Vitoria Airport to go back to England instead of using Bilbao's one?
Cheers.
The Oracle replies:
The band do not own their own plane but hire one to transport them and their entourage (The word entourage always conjures up an image of a lot of people to me and indeed it can be; they do manage to practically fill the plane). It's very usual for such aircraft to use smaller airports that don't necessarily handle commercial flights. It's quicker, more economical and much easier.
July 8, 2011 - submitted by Vito, Brazil
Q. Dear Oracle,
What's the meaning of the letters that are placed at the end of each band's tweet?
The Oracle replies:
They're simply the initials of whoever wrote the tweet:
PH = Phil Harvey
A = Anchorman
C = Chris
W = Will
G = Guy
J = Jonny
R42 = Roadie #42
Hmm, maybe I should get an O up there...
July 4, 2011 - submitted by Andreas, Germany
Q. Precious Oracle,
Do you know where this image has been taken? It always makes me think of Nevada. Please turn my ignorance into knowledge! I really like it and use it as wallpaper on my PC and all my portable devices. Cheers,
Andreas
The Oracle replies:
You know, I knew you meant that photo even before I clicked the link. It was actually taken one state over from Nevada, though they had just left there.
The band had played Las Vegas (April 29) and then travelled to headline Coachella (California). That photo was taken not far from the festival site, near Palm Springs.
June 30, 2011 - submitted by Angel, Mexico
Q. Helo!
I am following the Coldplay line-up in Glastonbury, and I saw this picture and I got confused...
There is a soccer ball right bellow Chris' name, and I dont know if the guys play soccer right before the band performance... what you think about this?
The Oracle replies:
There's always a football in the wardrobe flight cases. The band don't always play football before a show but it's there just in case (no pun intended) they fancy a kick about.
June 23, 2011 - submitted by Muhammed, Turkey
Q. Why don't Coldplay perform at Eurovision for UK?
The Oracle replies:
Hahahahahahahahahaha! Thanks for that Muhammed, I needed a laugh today. Oh, you're serious? Well, erm, that's just not the done thing really. It's not going to happen. Ever. I'm not even sure that I need to say why. We all know whey don't we?
Hands up who's excited about Saturday?
(Throws hand up in the air).
June 2, 2011 - submitted by Renate, Netherlands
Q. Hi Oracle!
Now, as the start of all the festivals is only a few days away, my question is: are the boys and the crew excited and looking forward to be on the road again? Will you join one or more festivals? If so: how much and where?
Thanks
The Oracle replies:
It's going to be hard work but a lot of fun! Some crew members left for Germany yesterday actually. I'm attending T in the Park in July and can't wait to be there to see the reaction. I will be watching Glastonbury on TV for sure. It will be the first time I haven't been when they've played but I'm sure it'll be great. It's all going to be amazing. We're all pretty excited to be honest. The band are revved up and raring to go. Woo hoo! Roll on tomorrow; an exciting Coldplay day all round.
June 1, 2011 - submitted by Lexi, United Kingdom
Q. Dearest Oracle,
Before a band (or even their opening act) comes on stage, the venue usually plays music (presumably to help keep the concert-goers patient.) Does the venue or the band pick the pre-show music? Thanks, Lexi (:
The Oracle replies:
If there's music playing when you arrive it's likely to be the venue's pick but nearer show time there's the band's playlist. They once took DJ Wayne Griggs on tour to play the warm-up music but he still spun some tunes of Coldplay's choice.
Moments before the show there are usually a couple of songs to indicate the start. There's also the coming on music of course that the band choose and is played as they walk on stage.
June 1, 2011 - submitted by Christopher, United States of America
Q. Dear Oracle: what is the name of the font on the new single's cover? Is it even a font, or perhaps something hand-designed?
sincerely,
a budding graphic designer.
The Oracle replies:
It's basically a modified bubble font of which there are many variants.
May 24, 2011 - submitted by Rob, United Kingdom
Q. Dearest Oracle, I read today that at concerts, Coldplay wouldn't perform unless there were 8 "stamped, local postcards" in their dressing room. Is this true? If so, why?
Rob
The Oracle replies:
That's not actually true. All bands have riders which is a list of their requirements for backstage. They do have stamped postcards on the rider but they'd still perform if they were missing; it's not a deal breaker!
The original idea behind the postcards was touring doesn't necessarily mean you get to see anything of the country you're visiting so it was a way to get a memento and be able to send a card home if they wanted to.
May 16, 2011 - submitted by Tyler, United States of America
Q. In the intro in the Roadie book, it says that the band is currently working on a biography. Is this true? If so, how is it coming along?
The Oracle replies:
"They're working on it" is news to me. They're not working on it as they're way too busy working on the album. There was almost one in the pipeline a few years ago but it's not even on the back burner; it's way further back than that.
May 12, 2011 - submitted by Alison, New Zealand
Q. Will Coldplay ever come to New Zealand? They're the most amazing band and the only band I've ever been truly passionate about. I'm pretty sure that they've never been to New Zealand before. but they have so many fans out here! It would be a true miracle if they came here!
The Oracle replies:
I can't say if/when they're coming back but they HAVE played New Zealand twice. In fact the last time they played at the Vector Arena back in March 2009, Chris says that it's 6 years since they last played so they also performed in NZ in 2003
April 19, 2011- submitted by Kim, United States of America
Q. What is the meaning of Coldplay? I looked it up and it said harsh or heartless play?
The Oracle replies:
Whoever answered that question online has made it up!
Though as it's two words pushed together I can see why they have interpreted it that way.
You're probably aware the name was originally taken from a poetry book and then it was two words Cold Play but Coldplay as one word doesn't mean anything.
April 19, 2011 - submitted by Ruan, Brazil
Q. Hey oracle, how are you?
I have a simple question, don't know if you are allowed to answer it though. How much it would cost me to have a private Coldplay concert (like Homer did, though I had that idea before)?
Thanks
The Oracle replies:
It's not that I'm not allowed to answer though my answer isn't an amount it costs to have a private concert as they don't do private concerts. There's no hire out fee.
March 28, 2011 - submitted by Estelle, France
Q. Hi Oracle!
I have a question: why do the Coldplay's albums contain just 10-11 songs? Though the group record a lot of pieces during the recording... It's a great pity!
Thanks for your answer! I can't wait for the 5th album!!!
The Oracle replies:
10 tracks per album is the average number for all acts though Estelle. Just because a band records more doesn't mean they should be included. In my honest opinion there are artists who think that ten random songs make an album but I feel that an album is so much more than that. To me it's a body of work that is similar to a novel in that it has a beginning, a middle and an end.
It's sad to say that in a few years b-sides may not be necessary but at the moment those surplus songs can be used as the extra tracks released with singles.
March 4, 2011 - submitted by Justin, Australia
Q. Dear Oracle, are there any plans to release a Greatest Hits?
The Oracle replies:
No there aren't. The band aren't madly keen on the idea; they don't like fans paying extra for things they already have. Not sure where EMI stand on the idea at some later stage in the future.
Speaking of EMI, you may have noticed their server went down and unfortunately it wiped this week's Team Oracle responses from our system. They will now appear on Sunday as I'm afraid commitments mean I cannot address the problem until then. Sorry folks!
February 21, 2011 - submitted by Alvaro, Peru
Q. Will Coldplay sing some of the old songs like Bigger Stronger, Don't Panic, Shiver, Trouble or any others again in a concert? Those songs are the best.
I hope you answer me this time, I tried like 43465852134014243 times and no results :(
The Oracle replies:
43465852134014244th time lucky Alvaro. The band will for sure be playing older songs but which ones remains to be seen (or heard). They do chop and change some of the old tracks too during a tour. Shiver made a late appearance during the Viva tour for example. I would almost guarantee that Bigger Stronger won't be part of their live repertoire though.
January 18, 2011 - submitted by Fernando, Argentina
Q. Hey Oracle, I found this somewhere in the internet. Is this true? I mean there's a LOT of alcohol and cigarettes...
Thanks You!
The Oracle replies:
Ah the legend that is the Rider. I would love to say yeah dude it's rock n roll but I can honestly tell you that Coldplay do not consume that high level of alcohol/cigarettes - if any of it!
I would suggest it is a standard rider of a big name band but in no way reflects what they "need" - which is probably just fruit and water. Ok so not quite as there is of course a need for catering. The family & friends room is usually equipped with refreshments too.
There have been some great riders throughout musical history and I do know that some tour managers/artists get great amusement from seeing what they can actually get venues to provide. Of course "we" have never done that but feast your eyes on Iggy Pop's gig needs. The rider starts page 13 but the rest of the document is well worth a read.
January 17, 2011 - submitted by Christina, United States of America
Q. Dear Oracle,
Isn't today the anniversary for Coldplay?? Nothing has been mentioned so I am having doubts on my Coldplay knowledge!
thanks!
Christina
The Oracle replies:
Actually yesterday was an anniversary of the band's first gig as Starfish. We don't mark many anniversaries. Don't doubt your knowledge but there's the timeline for most historical events.
January 10, 2011 - submitted by Nick, United States of America
Q. What is limestone rock? I've heard Chris mention that somewhere before but I've never heard of it before.
The Oracle replies:
Basically Chris has used the term when making a joke about where Coldplay fit into the musical term rock. Coldplay are often described as soft rock as oppose to hard rock. They do however have a heavier side that sometimes goes unnoticed. Chris therefore describes the band as limestone rock which usually refers to a geological term rather than the aforementioned musical one.
January 6, 2011 - submitted by Anush, India
Q. Dear Oracle,
Why don't Will, Guy, Jonny & Chris have their own social networking ID's for interacting with their fans, apart from bands website?
Anush.
The Oracle replies:
I promise I'm not trying to be funny Anush but what with having families and being incredibly busy in the studio they don't really have time.
I'd also add in my own general view... just because Facebook & Twitter etc. exist doesn't mean to say that everyone must have one and share in their channels.
It's great in our case that we have collective pages for the band because should the mood take them, they do have the access to interact and indeed Guy has.
I know many high profile people do tweet; I see it as a platform to say what's on their mind rather than interaction per se.
December 29, 2010 - submitted by Adrian, United Kingdom
Q. Dear Oracle,
Is it true that Glee will do an episode of Coldplay? If so I would like to know any Coldplay member would be star guest/s ??
Thanks
The Oracle replies:
I have it on good authority that Viva la Vida will feature in an episode; but not the band.
December 20, 2010 - submitted by Kelby, United States of America
Q. Dear Oracle,
In one of the pics from one of the hidden gigs it show the boys in a huddle. What were they talking about or doing?
The Oracle replies:
That's their pre-gig huddle that they do before every show. The tradition started in their early years. What they say doesn't change much as it's all about having a great gig and it revs them up before they perform. I've witnessed many of them I'd say it's a perfect way to start a show - as one.
November 22, 2010 - submitted by Krista, United States of America
Q. Hoping you can help with a question: what exactly does a band do during the interim between show and encore? You know, the time when we as the audience are cheering and clapping like crazy, pretending that we think the show is over. What is going on backstage? Drinking copious amounts of water to rehydrate? A jaunt to the bathroom? Finally finishing that poker (or ping pong) tournament? It's always been a mystery to me and I thought that maybe the powerful, beloved and wise oracle might be able to shed some light on the subject! :) Thanks for sharing your expertise!
The Oracle replies:
Well Krista, all the above apart from finishing any sporting tournament - there isn't time for that!
Depending on which band, there could be a beer and/or cigarette involved, a change of clothes/costume, reapplying of make-up (Coldplay don't do that one of course) or simply waiting for the moment to go back on stage for the encore. I have seen bands look out from the back of the stage and soak up that incredible energy; it's truly electric.
November 18, 2010 - submitted by Lani, United States of America
Q. Hello there! I had heard from a bird that there was a special ten year anniversary album coming out (hopefully) by the end of this year. It's getting close and I'm curious... Was that just a rumor or is it amazingly true?? Thanks!
The Oracle replies:
Wow another rumour. Gosh where do they come from I wonder?
This one is not true at all either. The only album the band are working on is their 5th studio album and there are and never have been any plans to release a ten year anniversary record.
November 15, 2010 - submitted by Julie, United States of America
Q. Dear Oracle,
In what appears to be a recent black and white rooftop photo of the band, they all appear to be wearing cloth flowers on their lapels. Is this a sneak peek of the clothing they will wear in support of the new album? Thank you.
The Oracle replies:
No it's way too early to be showing glimpses of any styling that may or may not have been chosen for the next campaign. Sorry, I don't mean to tease but this photo was taken for the Crisis shows announcement. The corsages they wear are not relevant to anything other than looking pretty dapper.
October 28, 2010 - submitted by Colin, United States of America
Q. Dear Oracle,
I noticed in Mirko's video with Will lying on the ground there was a magazine cut-out at 1 minute that said Coldplay is from Oxford University. Is this true or did the band go to University College London?
Colin
The Oracle replies:
Actually it appears at 29 seconds and reads ..."Hailing from the metropolis of London, but having spent three years studying at Oxford University..." which of course we know is incorrect.
The band attended UCL as you say but Phil did indeed go to Oxford so that must be where the confusion arose.
October 27, 2010 - submitted by Kevin, United States of America
Q. Dear Oracle,
I was wondering if you could help me understand a few things about Coldplay. I've looked through the timeline several times and it seems like Coldplay went from being an almost unknown band to playing at Glastonbury in a very short amount of time. Almost like instant success. Am I reading the timeline incorrectly or did it all happen that quickly?
Thanks Oracle, You are the Best
The Oracle replies:
Yes, it actually did all happen that quickly. It's quite unusual for a band to reach their level of success at such high speed. Oh dear, that was terrible wasn't it?
They were relatively unknown to the music industry & media until September 1998. By Christmas the same year there was a significant industry buzz building. As early as January 1999 the media had picked up on the band and the wheels were in motion for a whirlwind 6 months of high profile live shows, Fierce Panda single release, major label record deal and major publishing deal culminating in their first Glastonbury appearance June 1999.
October 26, 2010 - submitted by Adele, Colombia
Q. Heelloo Oracle,
In the question about Ode to Deodorant, in the cassette, the name of Coldplay appears as "The Coldplay", was the band called like that before? Did they change their name? When and why?
Thank you so much.
Kisses from Colombia.
The Oracle replies:
A few people have asked this and it has been mentioned on these very pages before.
Yes back in 1998 they were known as The Coldplay but dropped The at the turn of the year. There were a lot of "The" starting band names and it sounds better without don't you think?
October 12, 2010 - submitted by Bill, United States of America
Q. Hello, I have a question about Coldplay's early career, like the very beginning. Did making many friends ( by friends I mean other musicians in other bands) help Coldplay get famous through contacts, being able to open for other bands, etc. at all? And if so, how much? How important was it for them?
The Oracle replies:
They didn't really make friends with established bands until they were themselves established. They certainly made impressions on many in their early days, notably Travis, Embrace, Muse and lesser known bands who offered support via opening slots at live shows or just talking about them to the media. Radio and press helped a lot by giving them a platform at their specialist events such as the NME tour and Steve Lamacq - then at Radio 1 - chose the band to open for Catatonia at Kentish Town's Forum. It was important to be recognized as a band to watch and certainly gave them a wider audience although they were already receiving airplay and earning exposure.
October 1, 2010 - submitted by Tom, Netherlands
Q. Hi ever so brilliant and all knowing Oracle !
I was wondering , if one of the Coldplay rules is to never use a sentence/lyric again? I have been trying to find one that's been used in 2 songs but guess what .. I couldn't find one :) Does the band use some kind of system for this ?
All the best, Tom
The Oracle replies:
I predict there will be gasps of surprise all around the globe at your findings and possible cries of "What?!?" at computer screens.
There are quite a few repeated themes throughout their catalogue of tracks:
Keeping or not keeping feet on the ground, spider webs, bubbles, fixing... yes there are plenty of ideas that pop up more than once Tom.
September 29, 2010 - submitted by Enrique, Mexico
Q. Greetings Mr. Oracle!
I have a question that surged after reading some articles of statements that came from the members. They say that they can't just disappear because they signed for a lot of discs. Does this mean that they're not longer doing this for pleasure, but for accomplishing with a contract?
The Oracle replies:
They are still as always making music for pleasure. They have been under contract since The Blue Room ep. Record deals tend to cover around 6 album releases and this is the normal period of the initial contract for the majority of recording artists.
September 22, 2010 - submitted by Sam, Australia
Q. Hello Oracle,
This could be a rather difficult question to answer sorry.
But I'm curious to know whether in the early days (I'm talking pre-Parachutes era) did the band have so much material that they had to chuck songs out then? Or was it really a matter of play everything we can?
Many thanks.
The Oracle replies:
It's interesting with bands as most tend to make it to the ten track mark and exclaim "We have an album!"
An album's worth of songs does not make an album in my opinion and it seems Coldplay shared that view. They had lots of songs that although they liked enough to put down in demo form they knew were not good enough to include. There were some little gems back then - some were played live, others weren't but they were all the seeds that eventually led to the growing of a fantastic tree...
September 10, 2010 - submitted by Peter, United States of America
Q. Greetings Oracle...
The burning question I have for you today is has Coldplay ever considered releasing demo recordings of their songs on their albums? After hearing an early version of Talk, I'm curious as to what other songs sounded this wonderful during the recording process...
Hope you come back for another tour soon!!
The Oracle replies:
The leaked versions of Talk were up to the same standard that the rest of the album was. I often associate demos as being rough versions of songs before the studio sessions get under way; pre-production if you like.
There's no point in releasing demo versions of any songs.
The only time the band ever released demos was on The Blue Room EP and to be honest, they were all great quality recordings too.
September 9, 2010 - submitted by Tom, Belgium
Q. Hi Oracle,
I recently bought this wrapping paper, and when I came home I saw the layout was 'donated by Coldplay'.
So did really the four band members draw it?
And what is the last thing written on it? (and most important of all ...)
The Oracle replies:
I'd not seen wrapping paper available in the Whatever It Takes Coldplay design before to be honest and never seen it on any product lists.
The last part are initials... but their meaning remains private...
August 31, 2010 - submitted by Helmut, Austria
Q. I learned that the band after a gig is instantly leaving the venue, not to come into a rush and catch their early plane back home. Since their are transpiring like hell during the show, do they still first have a shower before leaving?
The Oracle replies:
I'm pretty sure you mean perspiring Helmut but I love your English so don't take offence; my Austrian is non-existent!
The band do leave the venue as soon as a show has finished and there's no time for a shower until they get back to the hotel/home. Basically it's a case of a wipe down with a towel in the back of the car! On the Viva tour they put fresh jackets/tops on before the encore but they tend to come off after the gig ends too.
August 24, 2010 - submitted by Adeline, France
Q. Hello dear Oracle
I'm actually reading Juliet Naked, a book written by Nick Hornby. Does the band know that they are mentioned in a fake Wikipedia article on Tucker Crowe who is a singer-songwriter in the book ? It explains that his music influenced Coldplay and that the band also recorded a tribute album.
I love both Coldplay music and this author a funny coincidence...
Thanks.
The Oracle replies:
I know that Vicki, that band's personal assistant read and loved the book! I don't think the band have had time but there are a quite a few novels that mention the band these days...
August 19, 2010 - submitted by Kathryn, United States of America
Q. Does the band plan to still have the C stage on their next tour?
The Oracle replies:
Well you know me well enough to know that I couldn't and wouldn't reveal any future plans but what I will say is that the past couple of tours had a segment of the show set aside where the band would leave the main stage to perform for the audience further back. I can't imagine them not continuing to find a way to do this but it's not set in stone and of course if it was - I wouldn't say!
July 20, 2010 - submitted by Indraja, United States of America
Q. If the members of Coldplay were sorted into the houses at Hogwarts (from the Harry Potter series), which house would each member be in?
The Oracle replies:
I'm going to put them each into separate houses:
Chris in Hufflepuff, Will in Gryffindor, Jonny in Ravenclaw and Guy in Slytherin. You can sort yourself if you like...
June 4, 2010 - submitted by Loa, United States of America
Q. I know Coldplay is coming out with a new album. Does that mean that they are touring soon?
P.S. Please come to America!
The Oracle replies:
Erm, there has been no official word on a release date so the album is not imminent. It's obviously in its recording stages but as yet that means it will be a while off any tour dates being announced!
May 21, 2010 - submitted by Robbie, United States of America
Q. You mentioned Travis in one of your previous posts. I love Coldplay, and also really enjoy Travis, and while reading about the the latter, I found that they are said to be one of Coldplay's main influences. Is this true, do the guys really like Travis, and how well do the two bands know each other? Both bands are in my top 5 and it would blow my mind to know that stuff is true!
The Oracle replies:
Coldplay were inspired by and influenced by Travis; they were definitely fans. Travis were also fans of Coldplay right from the start and whilst on tour in the U.S. plugged the band to local radio stations that they visited.
May 20, 2010 - submitted by Lalo, Mexico
Q. Dear Oracle. How does Coldplay fly home? An Airway, Private jet, Bicycle?
PS. Your concert, the best one ever
The Oracle replies:
They take a regular flight home with an airline; they do hire a plane during long tour stints but not to actually get to the destinations as far away as U.S, Latin America and Australia etc.
April 16, 2010 - submitted by Silvana, Italy
Q. Dear Oracle, I was just wondering if the guys are excited about the World Cup? Are they supporting any particular team?
Thanks in advance. Hope you are all doing fine!!
The Oracle replies:
We're all fine thanks and very much looking forward to the FIFA World Cup and will be predominantly cheering on our home team - England. It's always nice to have a back-up team in case your team gets knocked out so I am sure for example that Anchorman will be keeping an eye of interest on Greece.
At the time of writing we only have 55 days, 8 hours and 28 minutes to wait!
April 15, 2010 - submitted by Frank, United States of America
Q. Dear Oracle:
Do any of the band members play Videogames, If so which console do they play on and what type of games?
The Oracle replies:
Yes they do and their preferred console is Playstation 3. Will is the keenest gamer in the band and game of choice? Football - not always the same football game, just generally football.
April 8, 2010 - submitted by Stephanie, Colombia
Q. Dear Oracle,
I've been wondering this for a while now... Did any of the guys finished their college careers... as an engineer student, I'd love to know if I can call Guy colleague!!! :D
Many many many hugs and kisses from Colombia. Thanks for the best concert ever!!!
The Oracle replies:
The band's career was just taking off as they were finishing their studies; Guy had already decided to discontinue but Chris, Jonny & Will all completed - and passed - their finals.
March 31, 2010 - submitted by Mark, United States of America
Q. Did Coldplay perform a private party in Cabo on Monday night at Hilton Los Cabos?
The Oracle replies:
No they didn't; I saw both Guy and Chris the following day so it wasn't physically possible. They don't tend to play private parties anyway.
March 30, 2010 - submitted by Simon, United Kingdom
Q. Have any of the band had the pleasure of meeting the legend that is Paul McCartney?
The Oracle replies:
Yeah apart from the fact that Coldplay were onstage shortly after Paul at Live 8, they have met a few times.
March 18, 2010 - submitted by Ashley, United States of America
Q. Following the question about does the band look at the Exhibition Room, does the band look at the Oracle questions and answers? Thanks. :)
The Oracle replies:
Er, no. That may explain why there's some animosity between myself and the Curator...
March 17, 2010 - submitted by Amanda, Australia
Q. Do the band hire translators when they tour countries where English is not the first language? Or are there enough bi-lingual members of staff to get them by?
The Oracle replies:
There was sort of a bit of both on the Latin American trip. There were representatives in each city who would meet us (Santiago, Miguel and Andrea amongst others) who would accompany the band and give local information, liaise with the tour manager as well as translate when necessary. We were also lucky in that Sylvia who was working as part of our crew is from Brazil and so translated for us too.
March 12, 2010 - submitted by Kaz, Mexico
Q. I suppose the band ends up feeling extra hyper after a show... what do they do to cool down and finally get a good night sleep?
The Oracle replies:
On this tour we have had aftershow parties which are actually rather civilized gatherings. We'd arrive back at the hotel probably a maximum of 20 mins after the fireworks had gone off and meet up again for food, drinks and chat. The bedtimes varied but Guy was always the first to retire and the first to emerge for breakfast.
March 9, 2010 - submitted by Juli, Colombia
Q. Hi Oracle, I wonder what the band will do now that the tour ends. Take a break? Or will enter a recording time? To be ready when the new album? Many kisses and hugs to everyone, to the boys of the equipment technicians, engineers, lighting designers and all that allowed this to was come reality! Hey hugs to Bat for Lashes they are so talented.
The Oracle replies:
Many thanks to the fans without whom there would be no shows! Guy, Jonny & Will are taking a tiny break but Chris will be straight back to work to continue with what they were doing in the studio before this tour started.
Tonight Guadalajara will be the penultimate show and then we're off to Monterrey for the very last Viva gig.
I'm thinking it will quite emotional to say goodbye to this tour after well over 150 shows since June 2008.
March 6, 2010 - submitted by Lousa, Mexico
Q. Hi, Oracle I'm so exited because today is your concert I been waiting for 5 months.
But I have a question: What do you do before the concert begins?
A LOT OF KISSES UR THE BEST
LOUSA
The Oracle replies:
A typical show day will consist of training in the gym, eating breakfast and chilling out before lobby call. Once they get to the venue they will play on the Playstation or table tennis as well as promo work, dinner and a meet & greet before they warm up for the performance. Chris will also pop to watch some of Bat for Lashes when he can.
February 25, 2010 - submitted by Heide, United States of America
Q. How do the boys communicate when they're in foreign countries? The same question for the crew and yourself...
The Oracle replies:
We find that so many people speak English and are more than happy to speak our Mother Tongue. Quite honestly I always find it embarrassing that everyone seems to speak better English than I can of any other language. Here in Argentina though I am speaking a little Spanish with the locals. I'm not fluent but am giving it a go! Phil is chatting away in local lingo too. The band also try to learn new words and phrases but there's a translator to hand in case.
February 16, 2010 - submitted by Sammy, United States of America
Q. Hello Oracle :)
I have a question...obviously. I read that when Coldplay was just starting out Sylvester Stallone asked them if he could use Trouble in one of his movies, but they turned him down. Other Coldplay songs have appeared in movies though..like Don't Panic in The Garden State. What was the difference between the movies? Why did they turn HIM down and not the others? I was just wondering...thanks! :)
The Oracle replies:
Sometimes refusal is because the film may not be appropriate or suitable for using their songs but it was nothing personal against Sylvester in the above case. Many producers etc. asked around the time that Parachutes was still a relatively new release in the United States. Record labels sometimes prefer to "exploit" an album through their own promotion and marketing means rather than agreeing to its use in a film early on. It was felt too soon at the time for any music to be used in a film. Consequently other offers were also turned down (FYI: Shallow Hal). Garden State was much later when the album has been out for a longer period of time.
January 25, 2010 - submitted by John, United States of America
Q. Is it true Coldplay has their own jet with the Viva logo on it?
The Oracle replies:
No they don't have their own jet. When they charter planes for touring purposes the company do tend to put the album logo on the side so that's what that is.
September 14, 2009 - submitted by Josh, Australia
Q. Dear Oracle
What are the boys' favourite sports? I notice that the Coldplay puppets were holding a cricket bat, does that mean they like cricket? I'm from Australia, so if you say anything about the ashes...
The Oracle replies:
Christina from the USA asked what the item the puppets were holding was, so you've answered her here by letting her know it was a miniature cricket bat. They are fans of cricket but that's not why they're holding a bat; the gig was at the Lancashire Cricket ground in Manchester. The band were thrilled the Ashes came home! Oops, sorry!
Will and Jonny do love football too...
September 11, 2009 - submitted by Bryce, Australia
Q. Where were the boys during September 11, 2001?
The Oracle replies:
They were actually preparing for their trip to New York for an appearance at the CMJ Music Convention later in the week.
I was en route to Heathrow airport to board a flight to New York. Ken Nelson (Parachutes and Rush of Blood producer) had visited the World Trade Centre the night before. As it was Jonny's birthday he obviously didn't feel like celebrating but it's not a date any of us will forget.
September 7, 2009 - submitted by Angela, Portugal
Q. Hey dear Oracle!!! How are you? If you answer my question I will be much better so,that is my question: how many assistants Coldplay have? Kisses for all :)
The Oracle replies:
They have 2 assistants; Vicki & E.J.
August 19, 2009 - submitted by Tamara, United Kingdom
Q. Dear Oracle,
The boys are best friends in real life? They're hanging out together?
The Oracle replies:
Yeah totally, they are the best of friends. Obviously when they're on tour they spend a LOT of time together so when they get home they spend time with their family and friends but are often hanging out at the studio and do socialize together too.
August 17, 2009 - submitted by Mike, United States of America
Q. Dear Oracle,
Do the guys ever listen to their own music when they are just hanging out?
The Oracle replies:
That would just be weird! I think when the guys are recording and getting ideas together it's important to listen back to the music but they wouldn't put their own CD on in the car once it's finished! They get to play the songs for real on tour so unless they're revisiting ideas for the live show, that'd be the only time.
FYI: I went to a Simply Red aftershow party and later a few of us gathered in Mick Hucknall's suite and guess what he put on the stereo? Yep, his new album!
August 6, 2009 - submitted by Sam, United States of America
Q. Oh, Oracle. Well first I wanted just to say thanks to you guys I was at the All Points West Festival (aka the mud jacuzzi) and everyone appreciated the enthusiasm Chris had. It certainly made the mud worthwhile. On my way home I was wondering what's the worst weather Coldplay has ever played outdoors? Thanks!
The Oracle replies:
There were 2 shockers that stand out. The first was torrential rain in 2003 and it wasn't just the weather that made it memorable. It was June 5, 2003; exactly 20 years since U2 played there in exactly the same weather for their Under A Blood Red Sky concert video. You can see how bad it was for yourself as footage appears in Coldplay's Live 2003 DVD.
The second is the show in Abu Dhabi back in March this year.
June 25, 2009 - submitted by Sam, United States of America
Q. Hello dear Oracle!
I was just wondering, what happens if one of the band members is sick and they need to perform a concert? Is there a replacement for each musician, or would they just call off the concert?
The Oracle replies:
If one band member was sick there wouldn't be a replacement, they would cancel a show rather than replace.
March 31, 2009 - submitted by Jorge, Mexico
Q. Dear Oracle
I am a fan of Harry Potter books and of Coldplay too and I really want to know why do Coldplay met the Professor Snape in 2002?
The Oracle replies:
Alan Rickman, the actor who plays Professor Snape, went to see the band at London's Wembley Arena. He met them afterwards and was at the aftershow party. Guy made a joke about being sorry for his late Potions homework, which Professor Snape taught before Defence Against the Dark Arts.
March 30, 2009 - submitted by m pablo, Mexico
Q. Dear Oracle, the first to names of the band were Pectoralz and Starfish right?
I don't want to ofend Chris or the other members but those are funny and bad names. I wondered why did Chris, or Jon chose those really bad names. I'm glad Tim Crompton adviced them the name of Coldplay.
The Oracle replies:
Pectoralz wasn't strictly ever the band's name, it was a side project that they had some fun with but nothing serious and they didn't write or play the same songs as Starfish. As dreadful a name as it is, it isn't easy picking a name for your group. Tim didn't advise them to use it; he'd discarded the name of his own band so they took it for themselves - with permission of course!
September 3, 2008 - submitted by Dorian, United States of America
Q. I've noticed that the band members wear ear pieces during the shows. What gets played in these ear pieces? What are their purpose?
The Oracle replies:
They're in-ear monitors and are pretty standard stage gear these days. They allow each band member to have a bespoke mix of what's going on in terms of music, instrumentation and vocal. They don't necessarily replace on stage monitors.
August 27, 2008 - submitted by Ali, United Kingdom
Q. Dear Oracle, Even though you know everything, I'm sure you'll agree it's important to have back-up. If you found yourself sitting in the chair on "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire", which one of the band would you have as your "Phone a friend"?
The Oracle replies:
Hmm good question Ali, albeit a tricky one. If pushed I'd probably ask for Phil. He's intelligent and possibly more available. I mean I can't phone the band if my Millionaire appearance clashes with a live performance. You can have more than one 'phone a friend' so if you insist it has to be a band member I'd pick Chris as an all rounder and nominate Will, Guy & Jonny for specialist subjects.
August 22, 2008 - submitted by Olivier, Canada
Q. Dear Oracle, is it true that the word 'COLDPLAY' is a lyric from the band Keane. Did Coldplay bought that name to Keane?
The Oracle replies:
I've already answered this so please peruse previous questions. I'll settle the urban myth though. It wasn't Tim from Keane who passed the name on; it was a different Tim entirely.
August 21, 2008 - submitted by Andras, Hungary
Q. Who is the boss in the band?
The Oracle replies:
There's not a boss as such, they all try to make decisions together. If they ever struggle or can't quite make up their mind, it's actually Will who tends to have the final say.
August 20, 2008 - submitted by AJ, Canada
Q. Would Coldplay ever consider doing a concert devoid of their big hits and perform a list of their more obscure or less played songs and b-sides? I would find that very interesting to see them explore their older songs live again, such as high speed , everythings not lost, life is for living , Spies, sleeping sun, other songs like that . Will they ever go back there?
The Oracle replies:
They do incorporate old songs from time to time but the hits are what most people want to hear. They are the songs that put them in this wonderful position of being able to be in a band full time. One of the reasons they change the way Yellow is played on each tour is to make it more interesting for audience and band alike. Some people might only be there for the hits as Guy once pointed out! Radiohead famously dropped Creep from their set many years ago but Coldplay certainly feel Yellow is one song that would be hard to drop.
August 19, 2008 - submitted by Rubria, United States of America
Q. I just saw the home video of the BBQ and I was wondering what it takes for Coldplay to take small gigs like... I'm sure if I had the funds I would find any way of getting them to play if I had a barbeque!!
The Oracle replies:
That was nothing to do with money; it was a KROQ radio competition. Coldplay performed at listener Jessica Olah's house after she won the competition to have the band play for her. You can watch a video here on coldplay.com.
August 15, 2008 - submitted by Raj, Bahrain
Q. After university, did you think your chances of making it big as a band were good, or was it just a temporary thing that worked out really good?
The Oracle replies:
It all happened fairly quickly so there wasn't time to doubt it becoming a reality. They'd all previously played in bands but they knew when they got together that this band was better and had a chance of making it.
August 12, 2008 - submitted by Justin, United States of America
Q. If Coldplay was a teeny-bob boy band, what would be the weirdest merchandise the band would be talked into selling?
The Oracle replies:
Once upon a time Coldplay started a side project called Pectoralz that was essentially a boy band. They joked about playing a gig with Pectoralz being first on as support to Coldplay. They didn't take it too seriously but songs were written even though they didn't perform. A girl making a demo for the A&R guy who signed them at EMI recorded one of their songs much later. That also didn't materialize into anything but was called Call Me. I guess a muscle rub would have been appropriately weird.
August 12, 2008 - submitted by Sir William, United States of America
Q. Do any members of Coldplay use a Mac at home? What about iPhones?
The Oracle replies:
Yes, the band love all Apple Mac products but they don't all have iPhones because they're not on the mobile network that supports them.
August 5, 2008 - submitted by Raphaelle, Canada
Q. When Coldplay came to Montreal, they spoke some French, do they speak the language of each country they are visiting?
The Oracle replies:
They do try, yes.
August 4, 2008 - submitted by Snooz, Norway
Q. Is Coldplay afraid of making music outside their "genre"?
The Oracle replies:
Not at all, that said, I think genres are misguided labels. Music is music. It was pigeonholed so that lazy people knew where to find it in the record store.
August 1, 2008 - submitted by Andy, Australia
Q. I've seen a handful of different painted acoustic guitars over the past few months used during live shows (and the Violet Hill video!). They are absolutely brilliant and I can't tell you how much I just want to get my hands on one. The guys should sell them! How many of these guitars do the guys use?
The Oracle replies:
Vicki Taylor, the band's assistant hand-painted each and every instrument. It's not limited to acoustic guitars, if you look at the drums and electric guitars etc. All designs are again based on Frida Kahlo's work. There are few sets of each too.
August 1, 2008 - submitted by Greg, United States of America
Q. Being from England the band must be fans of football. Which club does each band member support?
The Oracle replies:
Will supports Southampton and Jonny supports Tottenham Hotspurs. Guy & Chris haven't really got a particular team.
August 1, 2008 - submitted by Kersten, United States of America
Q. Hello Oracle! I was wondering why Coldplay doesn't include the lyrics with the CDs. Although we can find most on the internet and they *may* be accurate, isn't it better to provide them yourselves so that people sing the RIGHT words at the shows rather than mumbling, "Roman Catholic choirs are singing..." and the like?
Kersten
The Oracle replies:
Chris likes reading the CD lyrics to others artist's music so one would assume Coldplay would include theirs. However, the band like the idea of people listening to the music and lyrics and making their own interpretation. They don't want to keep the lyrics a secret which is why they will appear on the official website.
July 31, 2008 - submitted by Cristina, Spain
Q. I would like to know if it is possible to buy merchandise of Coldplay in their concerts. We can buy merchandise in the store online but, can we buy it in Coldplay shows of the tour?
The Oracle replies:
Yes Cristina, it is possible to buy merchandise at the shows.
July 29, 2008 - submitted by Emanuel, Israel
Q. Where did the name Coldplay come from?
The Oracle replies:
The name originally came from a collected book of poems called Child's Reflections, Cold Play written by Philip Horky. The band came by it via Tim Crompton, a close friend of Chris, who first used the name for his band. When they no longer wanted it, the then Starfish asked if they could use it. Tim is now in The High Wire. The book has become somewhat of a collector's item in recent years due to the band's popularity. Philip Horky is now a fan (not because of increased sales necessarily, he likes the music).
July 25, 2008 - submitted by Samuel, United States of America
Q. Which of Coldplay's members snore?
The Oracle replies:
The Oracle once shared a tour bus with the entire band and does not recall hearing anyone snore.
