Who's behind the notes? Discover Coldplay: The Complete Biography of the British Rock Band
"Viva la Vida" is a popular song by the British rock band Coldplay. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Inspired by Art: The song's title, "Viva la Vida," which means "Long Live Life" in Spanish, was inspired by a painting by the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The full painting's title is "Viva la Vida, Watermelons" and it depicts watermelons, which are a symbol of the fleeting nature of life.
Chart-Topping Success: "Viva la Vida" was a massive success for Coldplay. It topped the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It became their first number-one single in the U.S.
Grammy Awards: The song won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 2009. It also received nominations for Record of the Year and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
Innovative Sound: Coldplay incorporated a variety of instruments into the song, including the violin, cello, and a hammered dulcimer, giving it a unique and distinctive sound. This experimental approach was well-received by both fans and critics.
Music Video: The music video for "Viva la Vida" was directed by renowned director Hype Williams. It features vibrant and surreal imagery, including a memorable scene where the band members walk on the surface of the sea.
Album Title: The song is part of Coldplay's fourth studio album, also titled "Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends," which was released in 2008. The album was a departure from their previous sound, incorporating more experimental and orchestral elements.
Cultural References: The lyrics of the song contain references to historical and cultural figures, including the French Revolution and the Roman Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. It explores themes of power and downfall.
Sampling Controversy: The band faced a copyright lawsuit over the song. American guitarist Joe Satriani claimed that "Viva la Vida" copied portions of his instrumental track "If I Could Fly." The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court.
"Viva la Vida" remains one of Coldplay's most iconic and beloved songs, known for its rich musical composition and thought-provoking lyrics.