We have a collection of 2 arrangements for Coldplay - Violet Hill
How does this full band arrangement differ from Coldplay's original rock version and Buquet's trombone quartet adaptation? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Coldplay: The Complete Biography of the British Rock Band
"Violet Hill" is a song by the British rock band Coldplay, released as the lead single from their fourth studio album, "Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends," in 2008. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Inspiration for the Title: The title "Violet Hill" refers to a street in London. Chris Martin, the lead singer and lyricist, often walks through London for inspiration, and the title is derived from one of his walks.
Political Undertones: The lyrics of "Violet Hill" have been interpreted as having political undertones. Some listeners and critics have suggested that the song addresses political and social issues, particularly war and its consequences.
Release as a Free Download: In an unconventional move, Coldplay initially released "Violet Hill" as a free download on their official website for a limited time before it became available for purchase. This decision generated a significant amount of buzz and contributed to the song's success.
Chart Performance: "Violet Hill" performed well on the charts, reaching high positions in various countries. It peaked at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached the top of the UK Singles Chart.
Album Artwork: The single's artwork features a painting by Eugène Delacroix called "Liberty Leading the People." This painting is a powerful image representing the July Revolution of 1830 in France.
Music Video: The music video for "Violet Hill" was directed by Asif Kapadia and features a series of images and scenes that are open to interpretation. It adds a visual layer to the song's themes.
Collaboration with Brian Eno: The album "Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends" was produced by Brian Eno, known for his work with artists like U2 and David Bowie. Eno's influence is evident in the experimental and atmospheric sounds found in "Violet Hill" and the rest of the album.
Critical Acclaim: The song received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its dynamic sound and meaningful lyrics. It contributed to the overall critical success of the "Viva la Vida" album.
"Violet Hill" is often remembered as one of Coldplay's standout tracks and is appreciated for its artistic and thematic depth.