Coldplay is a British rock band formed in London in 1996, comprising Chris Martin (vocals, piano), Jonny Buckland (lead guitar), Guy Berryman (bass), and Will Champion (drums). The band emerged from University College London, initially under the name "Pectoralz," before adopting Coldplay. They signed with Parlophone in 1999 and debuted with *Parachutes* (2000), which gained international acclaim, featuring the hit "Yellow" and winning the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album[1][5][4].
Coldplay’s signature melodic, piano-driven sound evolved with their second album, *A Rush of Blood to the Head* (2002), which included iconic tracks like "Clocks"—earning a Grammy for Record of the Year—and "The Scientist." Their third album, *X&Y* (2005), became the best-selling album worldwide that year and secured them a third Brit Award for British Album of the Year, making them the first act to win this award three consecutive times[1][3][4]. Their 2008 album, *Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends*, produced with Brian Eno, topped charts globally and won multiple Grammys, including Song of the Year for "Viva la Vida," marking a peak in their mainstream success[1][4][5].
Coldplay has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music acts in history[3][5]. They have won nine Brit Awards—the most for any band—seven Grammy Awards, and several MTV VMAs[2][6]. Their *Music of the Spheres World Tour* (2022–present) has grossed over $810 million by early 2025, surpassing their previous record-setting tours, while pioneering eco-friendly initiatives that reduce their touring carbon footprint by 50%, setting a new standard for sustainable live music event