Scoreload

Formation and Early Years (1996-2000)

Coldplay formed at University College London in 1996 when Chris Martin and Jonny Buckland began musical collaborations. After adding Guy Berryman and Will Champion, the quartet solidified their lineup. Their early EPs 'Safety' and 'The Blue Room' garnered critical attention, leading to a contract with Parlophone Records in 1999.

Breakthrough Success (2000-2005)

Debut album 'Parachutes' (2000) featuring 'Yellow' won the Grammy for Best Alternative Album. Follow-up 'A Rush of Blood to the Head' (2002) with hits 'Clocks' and 'The Scientist' cemented their global status. Third album 'X&Y' (2005) debuted at #1 in 28 countries.

Artistic Evolution (2008-2015)

Collaborating with producer Brian Eno, Coldplay reinvented their sound on 'Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends' (2008), winning three Grammys. Subsequent albums 'Mylo Xyloto' (2011) and 'Ghost Stories' (2014) explored electronic and personal themes, while maintaining chart dominance.

Recent Work and Activism (2015-Present)

'A Head Full of Dreams' (2015) became their seventh UK #1 album. Recent releases like 'Everyday Life' (2019) and 'Music of the Spheres' (2021) address social issues. Known for eco-friendly tours, Coldplay pioneered sustainability initiatives including kinetic dance floors.

Band Members

• Chris Martin (lead vocals, piano, rhythm guitar) - Born March 2, 1977

• Jonny Buckland (lead guitar) - Born September 11, 1977

• Guy Berryman (bass guitar) - Born April 12, 1978

• Will Champion (drums, backing vocals) - Born July 31, 1978

All members contribute to songwriting, with Martin as primary lyricist.

Musical Legacy

Coldplay has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands in history. Their signature blend of emotional lyrics, anthemic melodies, and atmospheric production has influenced contemporary alternative rock. They've won 9 Brit Awards, 7 Grammys, and headline major festivals globally.

• The band name was inspired by a poetry book titled 'Child's Reflections, Cold Play' discovered by founding member Phil Harvey.
• Chris Martin married actress Gwyneth Paltrow in 2003 (divorced 2016); their split inspired the album 'Ghost Stories'.
• Will Champion was fired early on for criticizing Martin's singing but reinstated after other members threatened to quit.
• Coldplay turned down a $500 million Las Vegas residency to maintain touring flexibility and family time.
• The band pledged to make their 2022 Music of the Spheres Tour 50% more sustainable than previous tours.