Who's behind the notes? Discover Coldplay: The Complete Biography of the British Rock Band
"Viva la Vida" by Coldplay is a popular and iconic song. Here are some interesting facts about it:
Inspiration from Art: The song's title, "Viva la Vida," translates to "Long Live Life" in Spanish. It was inspired by a painting by 20th-century Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, which is titled "Viva la Vida."
Orchestral Influence: The song is known for its lush orchestral arrangement, which is quite different from Coldplay's earlier works. Brian Eno, a renowned producer and musician, played a significant role in shaping the song's sound.
Chart-Topping Success: "Viva la Vida" was a massive hit for Coldplay. It topped the charts in multiple countries and won several awards, including Grammy Awards for Song of the Year and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
Revolutionary Theme: The lyrics of the song have a somewhat revolutionary and historical theme. They reference various historical and biblical figures, including King Louis XVI of France and Roman emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.
Controversy: The song faced a copyright infringement lawsuit. The guitar riff in "Viva la Vida" was alleged to have been borrowed from the song "If I Could Fly" by American guitarist Joe Satriani. Coldplay settled the lawsuit out of court.
Music Video: The music video for "Viva la Vida" was filmed in various locations, including the London streets and at Hampton Court Palace. It features artistic and surreal imagery, which complements the song's unique vibe.
Album Title: "Viva la Vida" is also the title track of Coldplay's fourth studio album, released in 2008. The album marked a departure from the band's earlier sound and received critical acclaim.
Cultural Impact: The song has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its cultural impact.
Live Performances: Coldplay is known for delivering powerful live performances of "Viva la Vida." They often include it in their concert setlists, and it's a fan favorite during their shows.
Sampling: The song "Viva la Vida" has been sampled and covered by numerous artists, showcasing its enduring popularity and influence in the music industry.
"Viva la Vida" remains one of Coldplay's most recognizable and enduring songs, loved by fans and appreciated for its artistic and musical innovations.