Who's behind the notes? Discover Coldplay: The Complete Biography of the British Rock Band
"Viva la Vida" is one of Coldplay's most iconic songs, and it comes with some interesting facts:
Inspiration for the Title: The song's title, "Viva la Vida," translates to "Long Live Life" or "Live the Life" in Spanish. The phrase was inspired by a painting by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, which depicted watermelons with the words "Viva la Vida."
Historical References: The lyrics of the song contain references to historical figures and events. For example, "I used to rule the world" likely alludes to the French Revolution and the fall of the monarchy.
Incorporation of Classical Music: "Viva la Vida" features a prominent string section that gives it a distinct classical music feel. This is a departure from Coldplay's usual sound and showcases their willingness to experiment with different musical styles.
Chart-Topping Success: The song was a massive commercial success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 2009.
Album Title: "Viva la Vida" is the title track of Coldplay's fourth studio album, released in 2008. The album, officially titled "Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends," received critical acclaim and marked a departure from the band's earlier sound, embracing a more experimental and orchestral approach.
Sampling Controversy: The band faced a lawsuit over similarities between "Viva la Vida" and a song called "If I Could Fly" by American guitarist Joe Satriani. The lawsuit was settled out of court.
Cultural Impact: The song's memorable melody and catchy chorus have made it a staple in pop culture. It has been covered and sampled by various artists and featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials.
Music Video: The music video for "Viva la Vida" was directed by Hype Williams and features vivid, artistic imagery. It was shot in various locations, including the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Prague.
Live Performances: Coldplay is known for their energetic live performances, and "Viva la Vida" has been a highlight of their concerts. The song often features stunning visual effects and audience sing-alongs.
Legacy: "Viva la Vida" remains one of Coldplay's signature songs and is frequently performed at their concerts. It continues to be a fan favorite and a symbol of the band's evolution in sound and style.
"Viva la Vida" is a song that not only marked a significant moment in Coldplay's career but also left a lasting impact on the music industry and popular culture.