History of Coldplay in Timeline
Coldplay is a British rock band formed in London in 1997, comprising Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman, and Will Champion. Managed by Phil Harvey, they are renowned for their impactful live performances and contributions to popular culture through their music, advocacy, and achievements.
November 1919: Mysterious posters with dates appeared in numerous countries
On 18 October 2019, mysterious black-and-white posters began appearing in numerous countries around the world, with Coldplay wearing vintage-style clothing and a date showing 22 November 1919.
1919: Inspiration for Everyday Life
In 1919, The sepia-tinged imagery of a jazz band from 1919 later inspired the album art and theme of Coldplay's 'Everyday Life' album.
1967: Inspiration from Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
In 1967, The Beatles released Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album, which later became an inspiration for Coldplay's uniforms in 2008 for Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends.
1970: "The Scientist" Inspired
In 1970, George Harrison released the song "All Things Must Pass", which inspired Coldplay's song "The Scientist", released in 2002.
1971: "Maggie May" tops UK Singles Chart and Billboard Hot 100
In 1971, Rod Stewart's "Maggie May" topped the UK Singles Chart and Billboard Hot 100 before Coldplay's Viva la Vida in 2008.
September 1996: Chris Martin and Jonny Buckland Meet
In September 1996, Chris Martin and Jonny Buckland met during their first week at University College London.
1997: Band Formation
In 1997, Coldplay was formed in London, consisting of Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman, Will Champion, and manager Phil Harvey.
January 1998: Will Champion Joins the Band
In January 1998, Will Champion completed the lineup of Coldplay.
January 1998: First Performance as Starfish
On January 16, 1998, Coldplay, then known as Starfish, had their first performance at The Laurel Tree in Camden.
September 1998: Performance at Manchester's In the City Showcase
In September 1998, Coldplay performed at Manchester's In the City showcase and were discovered by A&R scout Debs Wild.
1998: Independent Release of Safety
In 1998, Coldplay independently released 'Safety'.
1998: Early EPs with dream pop characteristics
The extended plays released in 1998 have characteristics of dream pop, setting them apart from future releases.
January 1999: First Unsigned Act on Evening Session
On January 3, 1999, Coldplay became the first unsigned act to appear on Steve Lamacq's Evening Session.
April 1999: Signing with Parlophone and Release of "Brothers & Sisters"
In April 1999, Coldplay signed a deal with Parlophone and released "Brothers & Sisters".
June 1999: First Glastonbury Festival Appearance
On June 27, 1999, Coldplay made their first appearance at the Glastonbury Festival in the New Bands Tent.
September 1999: Recording of Parachutes Begins
In September 1999, Coldplay began recording their debut album, Parachutes.
1999: Early EPs with dream pop characteristics
The extended plays released in 1999 have characteristics of dream pop, setting them apart from future releases.
March 2000: Release of "Shiver"
In March 2000, Coldplay had their first Top 40 hit with "Shiver", which peaked at number 35 on the UK Singles Chart.
May 2000: Recording of Parachutes Ends
In May 2000, the recording of Coldplay's debut album, Parachutes, concluded.
June 2000: First Headlining Tour and Release of "Yellow"
In June 2000, Coldplay embarked on their first headlining tour, including a performance at the Glastonbury Festival, and released the single "Yellow".
July 2000: Release of Parachutes in the UK
On July 10, 2000, Coldplay released their debut album 'Parachutes' in the United Kingdom, which debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart.
September 2000: Mercury Music Prize Nomination
In September 2000, Parachutes was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize.
October 2000: "Yellow" sent to US radio
In October 2000, the track "Yellow" was sent to US college and alternative radio outlets.
November 2000: North American Release of Parachutes
In November 2000, Coldplay released the album Parachutes in North America.
November 2000: Release of Parachutes in North America
On November 7, 2000, Coldplay released 'Parachutes' in North America.
2000: Release of Parachutes album
Coldplay's first studio album, Parachutes, released in 2000, was described as melodic pop which combined "bits of distorted guitar riffs and swishing percussion", being "exquisitely dark and artistically abrasive".
2000: Release of Parachutes and Breakthrough Single "Yellow"
In 2000, Coldplay issued their debut album, 'Parachutes', featuring the breakthrough single "Yellow".
2000: Parachutes listed among best-selling albums
In 2000, Coldplay's album Parachutes was listed among the 50 best-selling albums in the United Kingdom.
2000: Auctioned globe from Parachutes album
In 2000, The globe from Parachutes album cover was later auctioned for Kids Company in 2009.
February 2001: Brit Awards
In February 2001, Coldplay earned awards for Best British Group and Best British Album at the Brit Awards.
September 2001: Begin Work on Second Album
In September 2001, Coldplay returned to the studio to begin work on their second album, A Rush of Blood to the Head.
December 2001: Release of Mince Spies
In December 2001, Coldplay released a limited-edition CD, Mince Spies, featuring a remix of "Yellow" and the Christmas song "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas".
June 2002: Start of A Rush of Blood to the Head Tour
On June 19, 2002, Coldplay began their A Rush of Blood to the Head Tour.
August 2002: Release of A Rush of Blood to the Head
In August 2002, Coldplay released the album 'A Rush of Blood to the Head', which spawned several successful singles.
2002: Inspiration for A Rush of Blood to the Head
For A Rush of Blood to the Head released in 2002, Coldplay drew inspiration from Echo & the Bunnymen, George Harrison, and Muse.
2002: Release of A Rush of Blood to the Head album
In 2002, Coldplay released 'A Rush of Blood to the Head', an album full of "plaintive strums, weary arpeggios and pained melodies", along with a sense of urgency and heartbreak. Music critics described it as larger, darker, and colder than its predecessor, praising Coldplay for showing a newfound confidence as well.
2002: Rejection of commercial contracts
In 2002, Coldplay reportedly turned down over $85 million in contracts from companies including Gatorade, Diet Coke and Gap.
2002: A Rush of Blood to the Head added to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 2002, Coldplay's album A Rush of Blood to the Head was added to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Rolling Stone's definitive editorials.
2002: A Rush of Blood to the Head listed among best-selling albums
In 2002, Coldplay's album A Rush of Blood to the Head was listed among the 50 best-selling albums in the United Kingdom.
August 2003: Performance at 2003 MTV Video Music Awards
On August 28, 2003, Coldplay performed "The Scientist" at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards and won three awards.
September 2003: End of A Rush of Blood to the Head Tour
On September 8, 2003, Coldplay concluded their A Rush of Blood to the Head Tour.
December 2003: Rolling Stone names Coldplay best artist and band
In December 2003, Rolling Stone magazine's readers voted Coldplay as both the best artist and best band of the year. The band also covered The Pretenders' song "2000 Miles" at that time.
2003: Release of "2000 Miles" acoustic cover
In 2003, Coldplay released an acoustic cover of the single "2000 Miles" to raise funds for Stop Handgun Violence and Future Forests.
2003: Songwriters of the Year at the Ivor Novello Awards
In 2003, Coldplay were named Songwriters of the Year at the Ivor Novello Awards.
2003: Criticism of Iraq invasion
In 2003, Martin criticized the invasion of Iraq during a show for Teenage Cancer Trust at Royal Albert Hall, encouraging people to "sing against war".
2003: Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album
In 2003, the album Parachutes earned Best Alternative Music Album honours at the Grammy Awards.
2004: Coldplay wins Grammy for 'Clocks'
At the 2004 Grammy Awards, Coldplay won the Record of the Year award for their song "Clocks".
2004: Coldplay takes break from spotlight
In 2004, Coldplay spent most of the year out of the spotlight, taking a break from touring and recording their third album. They also released a satire music video of a song from a fictional band called The Nappies.
2004: Joe Satriani's Album Release
In 2004, Joe Satriani released his album Is There Love in Space?
2004: Support for John Kerry
In 2004, Martin backed Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry.
May 2005: "Speed of Sound" single release
In May 2005, the lead single "Speed of Sound" from the album X&Y was released as a CD, following its radio and online debut in April.
June 2005: Twisted Logic Tour begins
In June 2005, Coldplay began their Twisted Logic Tour, performing at festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury.
June 2005: X&Y album Release
In June 2005, Coldplay's album X&Y was released in the UK and Europe, becoming the best-selling album of 2005 with 8.3 million sales worldwide.
July 2005: Live 8 performance in Hyde Park
In July 2005, Coldplay performed at Live 8 in Hyde Park, playing a rendition of The Verve's "Bitter Sweet Symphony" with Richard Ashcroft on vocals.
2005: Inspiration for X&Y album
Coldplay's third album, X&Y released in 2005, was particularly influenced by Kraftwerk and Depeche Mode.
2005: X&Y Marketing Campaign
For the marketing campaign of X&Y in 2005, Coldplay wore black shirts, jackets, suits and pants, accompanied by white shoes, which featured a representation of the Baudot code on its artwork.
2005: Release of X&Y
In 2005, Coldplay released 'X&Y', completing what they regarded as a trilogy.
2005: X&Y listed among best-selling albums
In 2005, Coldplay's album X&Y was listed among the 50 best-selling albums in the United Kingdom and was the third-fastest-selling album in the country's history upon release.
February 2006: Brit Awards honors
In February 2006, Coldplay earned Best Album and Best Single honors at the Brit Awards.
October 2006: Start of work on Viva la Vida
In October 2006, Coldplay began working on their fourth studio album, Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, with producer Brian Eno.
March 2007: End of Twisted Logic Tour
Coldplay's Twisted Logic Tour concluded in March 2007.
2007: Collaboration with Beth Fenton
In 2007, Coldplay began working with stylist Beth Fenton to make clothes fit the "universe" or stories being told, after being introduced by Stella McCartney and Sara Jowett.
April 2008: "Violet Hill" Radio Release
In April 2008, "Violet Hill" was confirmed as Coldplay's first single from the album. It was released to the radio on April 29, 2008 and was freely obtainable from Coldplay's website for one week.
October 2008: Q Awards win
In October 2008, Coldplay won two Q Awards for Best Album for Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends and Best Act in the World Today.
November 2008: World Music Awards
On 9 November 2008, Coldplay was named the World's Best-selling Act of 2008 at the World Music Awards in Monte Carlo. They also received awards for World's Best-selling Rock Act and Great Britain's Best-selling Act.
December 2008: Copyright Infringement Lawsuit
On 4 December 2008, Joe Satriani filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against Coldplay, claiming that "Viva la Vida" incorporates "substantial, original portions" of his song "If I Could Fly".
2008: "Viva la Vida" tops UK Singles Chart and Billboard Hot 100
In 2008, "Viva la Vida" became the first song by a British act to top the UK Singles Chart and Billboard Hot 100 simultaneously since Rod Stewart's "Maggie May" (1971).
2008: Viva la Vida Licensing
In 2008, Coldplay permitted bands participating in the Bandstand Marathon to perform "Viva la Vida".
2008: Release of Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends
In 2008, Coldplay released 'Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends', which topped charts in over 30 countries.
2008: Releases of Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends and Prospekt's March
In 2008, Coldplay released Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends and the subsequent Prospekt's March, experimenting with new instruments, song structures, and influences from Oriental, Hispanic, African, and Middle Eastern sounds.
2008: Advertisement deal with Apple
In 2008, Coldplay signed a deal with Apple to promote the exclusive availability of the single "Viva la Vida" on iTunes Store.
2008: Support for Barack Obama
In 2008, Martin backed Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.
2008: Costumes worn on Viva la Vida Tour
In 2008, The costumes worn on Viva la Vida Tour were later auctioned for Kids Company in 2009.
January 2009: NRJ Award of Honour
In January 2009, Coldplay received a NRJ Award of Honour in recognition of their career accomplishments and impact.
March 2009: Sound Relief performance
On 14 March 2009, Coldplay performed the opening set for Sound Relief at the Sydney Cricket Ground, a benefit concert for victims of the Victorian Bushfire Crisis and the Queensland Floods.
May 2009: LeftRightLeftRightLeft Free Release
On 15 May 2009, Coldplay's live album titled LeftRightLeftRightLeft was released as a free download from their website and given away at the remaining concerts of their Viva la Vida Tour.
October 2009: ASCAP Award
In October 2009, Coldplay won Song of the Year for "Viva la Vida" at The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) Awards in London.
December 2009: Rolling Stone Recognition
In December 2009, Rolling Stone readers voted Coldplay as the fourth best artist of the 2000s.
2009: Coldplay wins Grammy Award for Best Rock Album
After winning a Grammy Award for Best Rock Album in 2009, Martin jokingly stated in his acceptance speech that they were "limestone rock", in comparison to "hard rock".
2009: Auction for Kids Company
In 2009, Coldplay auctioned significant memorabilia for Kids Company, including Martin's first guitar, the globe from the Parachutes (2000) album cover and costumes worn on Viva la Vida Tour (2008–10).
2009: Piece added to V&A Museum
In 2009, the piece Chris Martin used at Wembley Stadium was added to the V&A Museum permanent collection.
December 2010: "Christmas Lights" Release
In December 2010, Coldplay released "Christmas Lights". The song received positive reviews, and the music video featured a cameo from actor Simon Pegg.
2010: Performance at Hope for Haiti Now
In 2010, Coldplay performed a modified version of "A Message" (named "A Message 2010") at Hope for Haiti Now, a telethon which raised money for the victims of the 2010 Haiti earthquake.
2010: Performance at Steve Jobs' memorial service
In 2010, following the death of Steve Jobs, Coldplay performed at his memorial service at Apple Campus, posthumously thanking his support.
January 2011: New songs announcement
On 13 January 2011, Coldplay mentioned that two new songs, "Princess of China" and "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall", would be included on their upcoming fifth album.
May 2011: "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall" Announcement
On 31 May 2011, Coldplay announced that "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall" was the first single for the fifth album.
June 2011: "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall" Release
On 3 June 2011, Coldplay released "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall" as the first single for their fifth album. The band also presented five new songs at festivals during the summer of 2011.
August 2011: Mylo Xyloto album title announcement
On 12 August 2011, Coldplay announced that Mylo Xyloto was the title of their new album, and that it would be released on 24 October 2011.
September 2011: "Paradise" Single Release
On 12 September 2011, Coldplay released "Paradise", the second single from their upcoming album Mylo Xyloto. Tickets for Coldplay's European tour went on sale on 23 September 2011, leading to venues selling out quickly.
October 2011: Steve Jobs Memorial Performance
On 19 October 2011, Coldplay performed songs at Apple Inc.'s private memorial for Steve Jobs, including "Viva la Vida", "Fix You", "Yellow" and "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall". On 26 October, their "Amex Unstaged" concert was streamed live on YouTube.
October 2011: Mylo Xyloto Album Release
On 24 October 2011, Mylo Xyloto was released, receiving positive reviews and topping the charts in over 34 countries.
November 2011: Grammy Nominations
On 30 November 2011, Coldplay received three Grammy Award nominations for the 54th Annual Grammy Awards.
2011: Inspiration for Mylo Xyloto
After partnering with Brian Eno and Jon Hopkins, they began to incorporate elements of ambient music and electronica into compositions for Mylo Xyloto released in 2011, with Eno having a more direct role in the songwriting process.
2011: Album Recording
Coldplay finished recording their new album in mid-2011. Lyrical themes of album included love, addiction, OCD, escape and working for someone you don't like.
2011: Mylo Xyloto Influences
During recording sessions for Mylo Xyloto in 2011, Coldplay drew influence from graffiti and designed instruments, cover artworks and stages with street artist Paris.
2011: Artworks from Mylo Xyloto era
In 2011, Album Artists staged an exhibition with artworks from Mylo Xyloto era to raise £610,000 for Kids Company in 2012.
2011: Endorsement of "Freedom for Palestine"
In 2011, Coldplay endorsed the song "Freedom for Palestine" by posting the music video on their social media, which received over 12,000 comments before Facebook removed it due to abusive content reports.
2011: Release of Mylo Xyloto album
In 2011, Coldplay released Mylo Xyloto, a concept album with more electronic elements and upbeat tones, resulting in a pop rock style with modern, urban, and dance melodies.
January 2012: Brit Awards Nomination
On 12 January 2012, Coldplay were nominated for two Brit Awards.
February 2012: Brit Award for Best British Group
On 21 February 2012, Coldplay was awarded the Brit Award for Best British Group for the third time.
September 2012: London Paralympic Games Performance
On 9 September 2012, Coldplay headlined the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games, performing alongside other artists including Rihanna and Jay-Z.
October 2012: "Hurts Like Heaven" Music Video Release
In October 2012, the music video for Coldplay's song "Hurts Like Heaven" was released. The video was based on the story of Mylo Xyloto.
November 2012: Live 2012 Film Release
A concert documentary film and live album Live 2012 chronicles their tour in support of the Mylo Xyloto album. The film premiered theatrically for one night only, 13 November 2012, and was released on CD and home video on 19 November 2012.
2012: Exhibition with artworks from Mylo Xyloto era
In 2012, Album Artists staged an exhibition with artworks from Mylo Xyloto (2011) era to raise £610,000 for Kids Company.
2012: End of Mylo Xyloto Tour
In 2012, Coldplay performed two shows with Jay-Z in the Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York, on 30 December and New Year's Eve which ended the Mylo Xyloto Tour, which was named the fourth-highest-grossing tour of 2012 worldwide.
2012: Chris Martin debunks taking a break from touring
In late 2012, Chris Martin debunked speculation that Coldplay were taking a break from touring.
August 2013: Announcement of "Atlas"
In August 2013, Coldplay announced the release of their song "Atlas", which was to be featured on the soundtrack for the film The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.
September 2013: "Atlas" release
In September 2013, Coldplay's song "Atlas" was released, though its release dates varied by region: it was released on September 6th everywhere except the UK, where it was released on September 8th.
December 2013: Distribution change to Atlantic Records
In December 2013, it was announced that future Coldplay releases would be distributed by Atlantic in the United States due to the restructuring within Warner Music, following the purchase of Parlophone from EMI.
2013: Coldplay cited as most influential British celebrities
In 2013, Coldplay were cited as the most influential British celebrities in the world on Forbes' power list.
2013: "Atlas" nominated for Critics' Choice Awards
In 2013, Coldplay's single "Atlas", which was released as part of The Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack, was nominated for the 19th Critics' Choice Awards and shortlisted at the 87th Academy Awards.
2013: Comic book based on Mylo Xyloto released
In 2013, a comic book based on the plot of the album Mylo Xyloto was released in partnership with Mark Osborne.
February 2014: Unveiling of "Midnight"
On February 25, 2014, Coldplay unveiled "Midnight", a track from their yet-to-be released album.
March 2014: Announcement of Ghost Stories album
In early March 2014, Coldplay announced that their sixth album, Ghost Stories, would be released on May 19, 2014. The album would explore themes of past actions and unconditional love.
May 2014: Ghost Stories album release date
Coldplay announced in March that Ghost Stories album would be released on May 19, 2014. Ghost Stories is a spiritually driven album that revolves around two major themes mentioned by Chris Martin.
July 2014: Ghost Stories Tour concluded
On July 2, 2014, Coldplay concluded their six-date Ghost Stories Tour at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The tour had begun in April 2014 and included 'intimate' shows in six cities in support of the Ghost Stories album.
December 2014: Spotify's most-streamed band
In December 2014, Spotify named Coldplay the most-streamed band in the world for 2014, and third most-streamed artist overall.
December 2014: Release of "Miracles"
On December 11, 2014, Coldplay released "Miracles", which was written and recorded for the World War II drama film Unbroken.
December 2014: Announcement of A Head Full of Dreams
On December 4, 2014, Chris Martin announced Coldplay was working on their seventh studio album, A Head Full of Dreams, potentially their final album.
2014: Ghost Stories Tour: Intimate sets at venues
During the Ghost Stories Tour in 2014, Coldplay performed intimate sets at venues like Royal Albert Hall and the Beacon Theatre, incorporating new features such as a laser harp and the reactable.
2014: Release of Ghost Stories album
In 2014, Coldplay adopted a melancholic and somber style for their album Ghost Stories, incorporating electronica, R&B, synth-pop and ambient influences.
2014: First band to surpass a billion streams on Spotify
In 2014, Coldplay became the first band ever to surpass a billion streams on Spotify.
2014: Target commercial for Ghost Stories
In 2014, Coldplay participated in a Target commercial promoting the exclusive deluxe edition of their album Ghost Stories.
2014: Ranked as sixth-most-awarded group of all time
In 2014, Coldplay were ranked as the sixth-most-awarded group of all time by Fuse.
2014: Ghost Stories Influences
In 2014, Mila Fürstová's melancholic etchings were adopted for Ghost Stories, and non-customised outfits returned, but with darker tones.
2014: Paul Epworth contributes to Ghost Stories
In 2014, Paul Epworth contributed to Ghost Stories. Producers Tim Bergling and Madeon were involved as well, which resulted in tracks like "A Sky Full of Stars" having a more "danceable flavor".
November 2015: A Head Full of Dreams Tour announcement
On November 27, 2015, Coldplay announced the first dates for their 2016 A Head Full of Dreams Tour. Latin American and European stops were listed, including three dates at Wembley Stadium in London in June.
2015: A Head Full of Dreams Fashion
In 2015, Clothes made for A Head Full of Dreams included details based on tie-dye and kaleidoscope visuals reminiscent of the 1970s decade. Berryman's jacket and shirts worn by Buckland and Champion also had the flower of life as a reference to the album cover, while Martin drew media attention for using custom-made Air Jordans.
2015: Release of A Head Full of Dreams
In 2015, Coldplay released 'A Head Full of Dreams', further expanding their musical style.
2015: Stargate involved in A Head Full of Dreams
Made available in 2015, A Head Full of Dreams featured producing duo Stargate.
2015: Ghost Stories named Top Rock Album
On May 17, 2015, at the Billboard Music Awards, Ghost Stories was named Top Rock Album.
February 2016: Super Bowl 50 halftime show
On February 7, 2016, Coldplay headlined the Super Bowl 50 halftime show, being joined by Beyoncé and Bruno Mars.
April 2016: Named sixth best-selling artist worldwide in 2015
In April 2016, Coldplay was named the sixth best-selling artist worldwide in 2015.
June 2016: Glastonbury Festival performance
On June 26, 2016, Coldplay closed the final day of the Glastonbury Festival in England. Their performance included a duet with Barry Gibb, the last surviving member of the Bee Gees.
June 2016: Coldplay extends Glastonbury headlining record
Two weeks after announcing the lead single, in June 2024, Coldplay headlined Glastonbury Festival for the fifth time, extending the record set in June 2016.
November 2016: Global Citizen Festival in Mumbai & Kaleidoscope EP announcement
In November 2016, Coldplay performed a full set in India for the first time as part of the Global Citizen Festival in Mumbai and also announced that they would be releasing new songs in a new EP called the Kaleidoscope EP.
2016: Support for "Vote Remain"
In 2016, Coldplay favored "Vote Remain" at the United Kingdom European Union membership referendum.
2016: Super Bowl 50 halftime show and Glastonbury headline
In 2016, Coldplay's performance at the Super Bowl 50 halftime show earned the biggest audience in history for a group and helped to make them the most googled band. During the same year, Coldplay headlined Glastonbury Festival for the fourth time, a record for any musician.
2016: Coldplay's Pieces Sourced From Rag & Bone and Levi's
In 2016, Fenton stated that Coldplay's pieces are typically sourced from Rag & Bone and Levi's.
2016: First Five Albums Among the Best
In 2016, Q ranked Coldplay's first five albums among the best of the last 30 years.
2016: British group led both rankings simultaneously since 2016
Moon Music topped the Billboard 200 in the United States, marking the first time a British group led both rankings simultaneously since 2016.
February 2017: Release of "Something Just Like This"
On February 22, 2017, Coldplay released "Something Just Like This", a collaboration track with EDM duo The Chainsmokers.
July 2017: Kaleidoscope EP release
Coldplay officially announced that the Kaleidoscope EP would be released on July 14, 2017.
August 2017: Announcement of A Head Full of Dreams Tour live album
On August 15, 2017, Coldplay announced that a live album covering the A Head Full of Dreams Tour would be released.
October 2017: Debut of "Life Is Beautiful"
On October 8, 2017, Coldplay debuted live their new song called "Life Is Beautiful" at SDCCU Stadium in San Diego. It was written in support after the Puebla earthquake.
November 2017: End of A Head Full of Dreams Tour
On November 15, 2017, the Head Full of Dreams Tour finished with a total gross of $523 million from 5.38 million tickets sold, ranking as the third-highest-grossing concert tour of all time.
2017: Donation to the Centre for Cancer Immunology
In 2017, Coldplay made a donation of undisclosed value to the Centre for Cancer Immunology at University of Southampton.
2017: Release of Kaleidoscope EP
In 2017, Coldplay released Kaleidoscope EP as a companion piece to the album, including a live version of "Something Just Like This" with the Chainsmokers and Brian Eno's production in "Aliens".
2017: "My Universe" Single in UK Top 10 since "Something Just Like This"
In September 2021, "My Universe" debuted at number three on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Coldplay's first Top 10 single in the country since "Something Just Like This" in 2017.
November 2018: Release of Global Citizen – EP 1
On November 30, 2018, Coldplay released Global Citizen – EP 1 under the name Los Unidades, with proceeds being donated towards efforts to end global poverty.
December 2018: Release of Live in Buenos Aires
On December 7, 2018, Coldplay's fifth live album, Live in Buenos Aires, arrived. Its footage covers the final concert of the Head Full of Dreams tour in La Plata, while a second release, Love in Tokyo, was made available exclusively for the Japanese market.
2018: Contribution to Plastic Oceans Album
In 2018, Coldplay contributed to the Plastic Oceans Album from Artists' Project Earth and made Global Citizen – EP 1 available under the pseudonym Los Unidades, with royalties being directed to the institution's endeavours of education and advocacy towards the end of extreme poverty.
2018: Review of Live in Buenos Aires
In 2018, Sam Sodomsky from Pitchfork reviewed Live in Buenos Aires, hailing Coldplay as "one of the 21st century's most enduring live acts".
2018: Permission for "Yellow" in Crazy Rich Asians
In 2018, director Jon M. Chu obtained permission from Coldplay to use "Yellow" in the movie Crazy Rich Asians, leading to a Chinese-language cover of the track being commissioned.
2018: Release of Career-Spanning Film
In 2018, to celebrate their 20th anniversary, a career-spanning film directed by Mat Whitecross was released.
October 2019: Teaser for new material
In October 2019, mysterious posters appeared worldwide, and a cryptic teaser was released on social media.
October 2019: Release of "Orphans" and "Arabesque"
On October 24, 2019, Coldplay released the double lead singles "Orphans" and "Arabesque" during the Annie Mac show on BBC Radio 1.
November 2019: Everyday Life album release and concert
On November 22, 2019, Coldplay released their album Everyday Life and accompanied it with a double concert at the Amman Citadel in Jordan.
November 2019: ClientEarth charity show
On November 25, 2019, Coldplay performed a one-off show for the charity ClientEarth at London's Natural History Museum.
2019: Release of Everyday Life
In 2019, Coldplay released 'Everyday Life', exploring new musical directions.
2019: Everyday Life imagery
In 2019, a photograph of Buckland's great-grandfather spawned the old-fashioned imagery of Everyday Life, characterised as "a sepia-tinged 1919 jazz band", with nods to the Arab world.
2019: Everyday Life: Small shows for charity and livestream
In 2019, due to environmental concerns related to Everyday Life, Coldplay played small shows for charity and had a special livestream at the Amman Citadel in Jordan.
2019: Fastest-selling record since Ed Sheeran's No.6 Collaborations Project
In October 2021, Music of the Spheres became the fastest-selling record in the country since Ed Sheeran's No.6 Collaborations Project in 2019.
November 2020: Grammy Award nominations
On November 24, 2020, Coldplay received two nominations for the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards.
December 2020: Release of "Flags" internationally
On December 21, 2020, Coldplay released "Flags" internationally, a song originally included as a Japanese bonus track of Everyday Life.
2020: Buckland shares playlists with favorite tracks
In 2020, Buckland shared on social media playlists with some of his favorite tracks and artists from each decade, including various artists.
2020: Music video of "Trouble in Town" released
In 2020, Coldplay's music video for "Trouble in Town" was released, inspired by George Orwell's Animal Farm. All proceeds from streaming and publishing were donated to Innocence Project and the African Children's Feeding Scheme.
April 2021: Announcement of "Higher Power"
On April 29, 2021, Coldplay announced "Higher Power" for release on 7 May 2021.
May 2021: Release and Performance of "Higher Power"
In May 2021, Coldplay released "Higher Power" and performed it for the first time at the 2021 Brit Awards.
May 2021: Live at Worth Farm broadcast
On May 22, 2021, Coldplay participated in the Live at Worth Farm broadcast, showcasing a new song called "Human Heart" with R&B duo We Are King.
June 2021: "Higher Power" music video premiere
On June 8, 2021, the official music video for "Higher Power", directed by Dave Meyers, premiered on YouTube.
July 2021: Music of the Spheres album announcement
On July 20, 2021, Coldplay announced that their ninth album, Music of the Spheres, would be released on 15 October 2021.
September 2021: Release of "My Universe"
On September 24, 2021, Coldplay released "My Universe", a collaboration with South Korean pop group BTS.
October 2021: Music of the Spheres release date
Coldplay announced in July 2021 that Music of the Spheres, their ninth album, would be released on October 15, 2021.
October 2021: Music of the Spheres tops UK Albums Chart
In October 2021, Music of the Spheres went number one the UK Albums Chart with 101,045 units sold, becoming the fastest-selling record in the country since Ed Sheeran's No.6 Collaborations Project (2019).
November 2021: "Higher Power" nominated for Grammy Award
In November 2021, "Higher Power" was nominated for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards.
December 2021: Martin announces release plans until 2025
In December 2021, Chris Martin announced that Coldplay planned to release three more albums until 2025, including a musical-like album and a self-titled record.
2021: Max Martin invited for Music of the Spheres
For their ninth album, Music of the Spheres released in 2021, the group invited Swedish producer Max Martin. The song "People of the Pride" has an introduction inspired by a Beyoncé performance at the Global Citizen Festival, while promotional single "Coloratura" drew comparisons to Pink Floyd.
2021: "My Universe" debuts atop Billboard Hot 100
In 2021, "My Universe" became the first song by a British group to debut atop Billboard Hot 100.
2021: Martin cites Stromae as an influence
In 2021, Chris Martin cited Belgian singer-songwriter Stromae as an influence, describing him as one of their heroes.
2021: Partnership with BMW
In 2021, Coldplay announced a partnership with BMW to promote sustainable touring, highlighting BMW's recyclable car batteries and using "Higher Power" in advertisements.
2021: Release of Music of the Spheres
In 2021, Coldplay released 'Music of the Spheres', continuing to experiment with different genres.
2021: Donation to environmental causes
In 2021, Coldplay, through their J Van Mars Foundation, donated more than £2.1 million to environmental causes.
2021: Music of the Spheres: Cosmic Edge
In 2021, to promote Music of the Spheres, Coldplay incorporated a "cosmic" edge to all items and photoshoots. Wardrobe was provided by fashion label Applied Art Forms, which Berryman designed in the previous year.
March 2022: Music of the Spheres World Tour began
On 14 October 2021, Coldplay announced the Music of the Spheres World Tour, which began in San José's Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica on 18 March 2022.
May 2022: Band's Wealth Estimated to Exceed £471 Million
In May 2022, it was reported that the band's estimated combined wealth — without Harvey — exceeded £471 million, placing them among the richest musicians on the planet.
2022: Inspiration from The Flaming Lips
In 2022, Champion stated that The Flaming Lips were instrumental in shaping Coldplay's idea of how entertaining a concert can be.
2022: Music of the Spheres tour
In 2022, Coldplay's Music of the Spheres tour began, ranking among the 15 highest-grossing runs of all time.
2022: Partnership with DHL
In 2022, DHL became Coldplay's freight partner for the Music of the Spheres World Tour (2022–25) to reduce the logistical impact of the shows and avoid the use of fossil fuels.
2022: Regaining Respect and Credibility
In 2022, The Times' Mark Beaumont defended that Coldplay regained respect and credibility in all fields by dedicating themselves to stadium spectacles.
2022: Sustainability in Live Entertainment
In 2022, with the Music of the Spheres World Tour, Coldplay became "pioneers for sustainability" in live entertainment, reducing CO2 emissions by 59% in comparison to their previous concert run.
2023: Renewal of Ocean Cleanup alliance
Following their first Indonesia concert in 2023, Coldplay announced the renewal of their Ocean Cleanup alliance, with a new watercraft being deployed in Jakarta.
2023: Cited Among Most Impactful Climate Action Figures
In 2023, Time cited Coldplay among the most impactful climate action figures.
2023: Reaffirmation of support for Palestine
In 2023, during a show, Martin reaffirmed Coldplay's support for Palestine, stating their opposition to oppression, occupation, terrorism, and genocide.
2023: Pride flag controversy in Malaysia
In 2023, the Malaysian Islamic Party attempted to cancel Coldplay's concert at Bukit Jalil National Stadium due to Martin often waving the pride flag during performances.
June 2024: Carbon footprint reduction of Music of the Spheres Tour
As of June 2024, Coldplay managed to beat their initial carbon footprint target for the Music of the Spheres Tour, reducing it by 59%.
June 2024: Coldplay announces "Feelslikeimfallinginlove" and Moon Music album details
On June 13, 2024, Coldplay announced "Feelslikeimfallinginlove" as the lead single for their upcoming album, Moon Music, scheduled for release on October 4th. Details about the album were shared through their social media. The band also revealed "We Pray", featuring Little Simz, Burna Boy, Elyanna and Tini. It was made available as the second single on 23 August.
2024: Most played band of the 21st century on British media
In 2024, Coldplay became the most played band of the 21st century on British media and the first to reach 90 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
2024: Upcoming Release of Moon Music
In 2024, Coldplay is set to release 'Moon Music'.
2024: Donation to Music Venue Trust
In 2024, it was revealed that 10% of the proceeds from Coldplay's Wembley Stadium and Craven Park performances will be donated to Music Venue Trust next year, helping grassroots venues and artists in the United Kingdom.
January 2025: Coldplay releases A Film for the Future and performs in India
In January 2025, Coldplay released its visual companion to Moon Music, named A Film for the Future. Coldplay also held two shows at the Narendra Modi Stadium during the same month, earning the largest stadium attendance of the 21st century with more than 111,000 people each night.
2025: Future plans until 2025
According to Martin's announcement in December 2021, Coldplay would release three more albums until 2025. He added that the band will still be active with smaller releases and worldwide touring after 2025.
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