Coldplay Biography – A Brief Account on the Successful English Alternative Rock Band

Formed by Jonny Buckland and Chris Martin during their student days at University College London, the alternative rock band Coldplay has come a long way since performing in small clubs. Today, they are now one of the most successful British rock bands, having won seven Grammys as of 2010.

PHOTO BY KARL AXON

Coldplay Biography - The Story of a University Band’s Success

A Coldplay biography would usually start with the meeting of Jonny Buckland and Chris Martin during their freshmen days at University College London. The two quickly became friends and formed the band, Pectoralz, which they later named Starfish. Later on, Guy Berryman and Will Champion joined to complete the band. Soon, the band finally changed its name to Coldplay, the name it uses today. After releasing a few EPs, Coldplay released its first album, Parachutes. Any Coldplay biography would mark the release as a turning point in Coldplay’s career. The album was a great success and helped Coldplay make their mark in the world’s music industry.

Coldplay Singers - Centers of the Band’s Talent

Out of all Coldplay singers, Chris Martin, the group’s lead vocalist is the most well-known. Aside from being famed for being a talented singer with a soulful voice, he also plays the guitar and piano. Jonny Buckland, the other founding member is the group’s lead guitarist whose sparse musical arrangements has been praised for creating the unique sound Coldplay is known for. Meanwhile, the band’s bassist is the Scottish Guy Berryman. Despite his left-handedness, Berryman chooses to play the bass with his right. Percussions are provided by Will Champion, a talented musician who only learned to play the drums when he joined Coldplay. The Coldplay singers also consider their long-time manager, Phil Harvey as their unofficial fifth member.

Coldplay Hits - Memorable Chart-topping Hits

Coldplay has been noted for its soft rock style which has been described to be at times experimental and meditative. The band’s first album Parachute was its first commercial success. The well-received Parachute included famous Coldplay hits such as “Shiver and “Yellow.” In 2002, Coldplay released its second album, A Rush of Blood to the Head which contained the songs “Clocks” and “The Scientist.” After taking a break, Coldplay released X&Y with the singles “Speed of Sound” and “Fix You.” The album was also a success and hit number one both in the UK Album Chart and the US Billboard 200 Chart. Coldplay’s fourth album, Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, was released in 2008 with the hit song “Viva la Vida.” The album won three Grammy Awards, including Best Rock Album in 2009. As of early 2011, Coldplay is currently working on its fifth album which they plan to release in the later in the same year.