so we need a coldplay single to buy for our campaign to show that it really is worth it :D :lol:

so we need a coldplay single to buy for our campaign to show that it really is worth it :D :lol:

ah yes, the whole chicken/egg dilemma

MINE !! :wideeyed:

 

Great question! I also loved Oracle's response.

 

It's a sad day when bands decide to stop producing physical material. I, too, collect vinyls (even though I don't a record player) and love reading all the fun stuff in them, as well as in CD's. I hope Coldplay always releases both (physical and MP3), I really do.

March 30, 2011 - submitted by Ian, United States of America

 

Q. I know there must be at least 5 dozen other guys asking for relationship advice from the Oracle, but it would be greatly appreciated. My girlfriend intends to go with a bunch of friends on a cross country trip to California at the end of senior year. I love her to tears and would never think of leaving her. But I don't think I can just uproot myself from Pennsylvania to go with her. I don't know if I should go with her, break it off just before she leaves, or break up now so I don't have to see her go. Anyway I look at it my heart gets broken.

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

Ian you are a walking contradiction. How can you say "I would never think of leaving her" and two seconds later ask if you should break up with her now or before she leaves?

It's time to get harsh...

C'mon man, pull yourself together; she's going on a trip, not emigrating! You don't actually mention if she has asked you to go along with her and her friends either so this is what I think...

If you don't want to go, don't go but let her go with as much strength as you can muster. I suggest you encourage her and support her. She's going anyway regardless and the last thing she'll want or need is to feel pressure from you. Yes it will be sad saying goodbye for a while and your heart may be heavy, but it won't break.

Surely you want her to be happy and feel she deserves it after studying hard? Part of being in a relationship is compromise. You may be part of a couple but you are both individuals so let her be herself. If you are prepared to end the relationship just before you goes, I'd say you need to take a long hard look at yourself. Why would you want to put her through pain just before a trip of a lifetime? If you love her, wait for her otherwise tell your ego to calm down dude or you'll lose her anyway.

March 30, 2011 - submitted by Helene, Norway

 

Q. Dear Oracle,

 

Is there any place where I can buy the acoustic version of Lovers in Japan? I'd never download anything from a band that I adore as much as Coldplay without actually paying for it first.

 

Thanks in advance!

 

Best wishes from Norway.

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

The acoustic version was a bonus track on the pre-ordered Viva album via iTunes, in fact there was only ever a digital version. Unfortunately that also means it was only available for a limited period of time.

It popped up on my iPod's shuffle the other day and I myself wondered how I'd come by it.

March 31, 2011 - submitted by Will, United States of America

 

Q. Dear Oracle-

I was just listening to some Coldplay when a question struck me--how many instruments does Chris play? I'm aware he plays guitar and piano in addition to his amazing vocals, but are there any more hidden talents? Thanks from the U.S.A.!

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

I've seen him play the drums but obviously not on record. Will is the multi-instrmentalist of the band but they all try their hand at different things in the studio and at their live shows.

March 31, 2011 - submitted by Josef, Brazil

 

Q. Oracle, we can find hidden tracks on the albums: Viva La Vida (Chinese Sleep Chant), Parachutes (Life Is For Living) and X&Y (Til Kingdom Come). Why A Rush Of Blood To The Head doesn't have a hidden track?

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

I personally wouldn't say that Viva la Vida has hidden tracks, they're just not named on the track listing. I say 'they' because The Escapist is the album's uncredited closer. Hidden tracks are totally different in my opinion, in that they appear quite a time before the first or last songs. The reason that Viva had a two for one on some was to keep the album at a rounded number of ten in total.

It wasn't an unwritten rule to have hidden tracks on every album. Before anyone asks if the next album will have any - I have no idea!

Will is the multi-instrmentalist of the band

:thumbsup:

April 1, 2011 - submitted by The Oracle, United Kingdom

 

Q. WHO'D LIKE TO JOIN TEAM ORACLE?

When I answer questions of a personal nature, Coldplay.com readers often get in touch with their own thoughts. So, we now have a weekly feature, Team Oracle, whereby each Friday (with the question asker's permission) we open up a question to all of you to answer too. Then, the following Friday, I'll post a selection of the best answers, alongside my own reply.

ANYONE can join in so, if you'd like to, please email your response to the following question, in no more than 200 words, to [email protected] before Thursday 7th April.

"I turned 20 last summer and I'm having trouble getting used to not being a teen anymore. It makes me very sad sometimes.I think its because I'm a little scared about growing up and having all these responsibilities, like finding the right career and getting a good job. For some reason I feel really old sometimes, but then I feel like I'm not mature enough for my age. I'm just so confused. Did you go through this or am I the only one. Ana."

 

Look forward to seeing your replies.

The Oracle

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

Please email your replies to [email protected]

April 1, 2011 - submitted by Jared, United States of America

 

Q. TEAM ORACLE QUESTION - #19

I realize that this is a sort of personal question and if you don't answer I understand, but I just like to hear people's stories. So here goes: Who is someone that has really helped shaped who you are? Because none of us are without our role models and influences.

Jared.

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

That's a tougher question than on first look. My initial thought was 'my Mum' and not just because it's Mothers Day here in the UK this coming Sunday. I wouldn't be exaggerating if I told you that she's the most amazing woman I have ever met but I'd have to say that everyone I have ever met has probably in some way helped shape and mould me. Even re-shape in some cases. It's not just who, it's what; life's experiences both good and bad have helped shape who I am and I'm still expecting that to be the case even though I am very happy within my skin right now. Over to you...

 

This probably sounds really cliche and silly, but in my case that person is my boyfriend. It's been a process, though. We've been best friends for ages now, and ever since we first met he's always been the one person I know I can trust and will always be honest to me. When I was younger I was incredibly shy, to the point where I did not open my mouth unless I had thought about it at least three times, and of course by then it was too late to get it out. That of course, fed my insecurities, both physically and intellectually. It was only him I would sort of open up to, and then when we became a couple he began to push the subject, push me into actually talking about stuff. He would not give in. It was incredibly difficult and frustrating for us both, as I was so used to keeping my business to myself it was even physically difficult to just open my mouth, get words into sentences that spoke about feelings, thoughts, me, us. Yet he never gave up, he always made sure I knew he was there for me and no matter how much it would take me to get it out he would be there to listen. Now, 16 years after we became best friends, we are closer than ever and so different than when we first met it's almost ridiculous. But at least on my part, my transformation, confidence, self-esteem; it's all because of him. I'm not afraid to speak my mind anymore and I smile more than I ever did. Pris, Mexico

 

My friends are my role models, without a doubt. Some people might say their mom or dad, or perhaps their brother or sister. But when you think about it, you spend much more time with your friends than you do with your family (at least I do!). I choose my friends because of their personality and what we have in common. Nearly all of my friends exhibit something that we don't have in common... which can be a trait that I don't have. Several of my friends are extremely patient, which is sometimes not my strong point. They set an example for me, and it's something positive I can work on. Blake

My dad has helped shape who I am today. All my life he has taught me to wonder about the world, think about life, the universe and everything, and to see the good in people. I am a confident person, and I know I am that way because of him. Regardless of frustrating nonsense and potholes in the road of life, he has always been an excellent Poppa and has always put his family first.

I am thankful to him for making music such a big part of my life. While I was growing up he was always writing music and playing the piano. Music has always filled our home, and has led me to play piano as well, which is the one thing that I think brings me the most happiness. My dad is like my best friend- he is always there for me, always has good advice, and has always inspired me to become the best person I can be. I love you Dad! Thank you for taking me to see Coldplay! Allie

 

My mom, whether I, (being a teenager) wants to admit it or not, has really shaped me into who I am today. Not as much shaping as guiding me. Teaching me right from wrong and how to deal with my problems in a responsible way. I may not say it as often as I wish I to but I love her. Sarah.

A lot of people have had wonderful influences in my life and has shaped me, but I feel like a place has really made me who I am today. That place is Europe. I am from America and I travel there whenever possible. I was just in Berlin last weekend for two amazing concerts ;)

Ever since I have been traveling, It has made me a more strong, independent, and a smart person. It changed my life forever. In fact, I am working on moving there permanently, so my whole life is kinda surrounding that idea. Like going to school, saving money, learning languages. Europe is what keeps my battery running. Thank you for your question, It made me realize how much Europe actually meant to me! Caitlin.

 

I was 13 and had no clue what I was going to do with my life. My friend was playing on the piano and we both learned to play songs on it, one day he played Clocks, I had no clue who Coldplay was. Then another day he played The Scientist, and I'm like, "that's awesome" so I go on you tube and listen to some of Coldplay's songs, and I really liked their music. This ties into my role model by this, when I started to listen to the music and playing it on the piano I realized how much I enjoyed playing piano, so slowly ever since I have been picking up instruments and playing around with them and as of today in my room I have a full drum set, bass guitar, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, keyboard, microphone, 8 way amp/mixer and a ukulele. I guess what I'm trying to say is Coldplay inspired me to want to be a musician I even have some songs written and wrote one for my middle school band. I look up to Coldplay for helping me find what I want to do in life. Timothy

My role model is probably my mom. A lot of people will say it, but it's true. My mom has been playing the saxophone for about 40 years and she got my into playing it. The music part of my life came from her and I believe what she has taught me, really stands out from her personality. She has taught me to believe in the music itself, and not just the notes on the page or the name of the composer in the top right hand corner, not even the title in the middle or the beats per minute, but how the music flows between your fingers and into the brain, teaching not only the sound, but the meaning of the music.

When she was a child, she received good grades, and so of course I do. Whatever she has accomplished in her ife, I feel that that's the right path, that's the way to go. When there is a time f trouble, everyone looks to her and she knows what to do. No matter what, you can count on her and her wisdom, courage, and kindness. She is what she is, and no one can change it. Bailes E.

 

I hadn't thought about this in quite some time, so it's been nice revisiting my favorite role model. My grandmother is that person. Mary was one of only four women in her graduating class in medical school in 1936. She worked as a physician and had her first of three children while her husband was serving in WWII. In the 1950s she was permanently maimed in a head-on car accident that should have outright killed her. Mary spent 10 months in traction in a hospital bed, and when she got out, she returned to school to get her specialty training in anesthesiology. I think she saw her surviving the crash as gravy, and she lived each of her remaining days as if they were gifts. My grandma had a wonderful sense of humor, and this ability to see the funny in just about any situation got her through some dark times. I didn't follow in her footsteps professionally, yet her humor, amazing work ethic, and limitless compassion for others still inspire me today. Miss you Grandma! Aimee

 

Yes it is true that we cannot be who we are now without the figures we look up too. We're constantly changing in life but in the end, we all have at least 1 person we would like to be. Me personally I look up to Chris Martin; not because he is the lead singer of Coldplay, but rather for his expressive side. If you've seen the way he performs Fix You during the Viva la Vida Tour in Japan you'll see what I mean. Billy N.

 

Thank you for sharing your stories this week. Please do join in and submit your replies.

Click to read this week's Team Oracle question, and send us your answer.

A lot of people have had wonderful influences in my life and has shaped me, but I feel like a place has really made me who I am today. That place is Europe. I am from America and I travel there whenever possible. I was just in Berlin last weekend for two amazing concerts ;)

Ever since I have been traveling, It has made me a more strong, independent, and a smart person. It changed my life forever. In fact, I am working on moving there permanently, so my whole life is kinda surrounding that idea. Like going to school, saving money, learning languages. Europe is what keeps my battery running. Thank you for your question, It made me realize how much Europe actually meant to me! Caitlin.

I met her in Berlin last week, hi Caitlin if you're reading :nice:

April 4, 2011 - submitted by Linea, Denmark

 

Q. Many people have probably asked this, but why was there no Aprils fools joke on the website? Last year there was the perfume, and the year before that; zero gravity recording.

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

Did you not see the hypnofeed video clip? It was decided to share a well known prank from 1957 with you all instead. I'm not old enough to remember it first time round...

April 4, 2011 - submitted by Arely, United States of America

 

Q. Hi Oracle! I had one quick question:

What does Chris or someone else say at the very end of the new Studiofeed video? It sounds like an odd word....

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

Really? Sounds like swearing to me...

April 4, 2011 - submitted by John, United States of America

 

Q. Why did Coldplay name the Safety E.P. as they did?

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

There's an interview with the band's lovely friend John Hilton who took the photo for the Safety E.P cover. He explains that the name came about accidentally from a piece of the camera film...

April 4, 2011 - submitted by John, United States of America[/color][/b]

 

Q. Why did Coldplay name the Safety E.P. as they did?

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

There's an interview with the band's lovely friend John Hilton who took the photo for the Safety E.P cover. He explains that the name came about accidentally from a piece of the camera film...

Yeah but with the new website design, you can't read the interview because the font is in black (and so is the art history interview text).

 

Speaking of art history, it's been awhile...

Dang it that was my question. I feel stupid, I forgot that he answered that question in the interview. :facepalm:

 

Yeah, where have the art histories been?

Dang it that was my question. I feel stupid, I forgot that he answered that question in the interview. :facepalm:

 

Yeah, where have the art histories been?

Somebody should ask that as a follow-up to your question / her answer.

Somebody should ask that as a follow-up to your question / her answer.

 

I just sent a question about that, after i sent it a black screen popped up so i'm going to assume it was sent.

April 5, 2011 - submitted by Rowan, United Kingdom

 

Q. **I BEG YOU FOR A REPLY**

What do you do with a girlfriend(dating for 2 years) who neither wants your last name when you marry or wants children. I may be thinking ahead, because I'm still young in tertiary school, but a man finds and dates a woman he plans on marrying one day, and it bothers me that she wouldn't want to take my last name, which is something I traditionally believe strongly in.

 

Her reasons for not wanting to take a man's last name is that she likes her last name. She doesn't like her parents but she really likes her last name, and THAT'S her only reason. I asked about hyphenating, and she was strongly opposed to that too.

 

The thing about children is these things usually pass with time, but she really doesn't like children. I always planned on adopting as opposed to having my own due to genetic reasons, so she wouldn't have to bear the children, but she really doesn't like children and really never wants any of her own (or pets... I love animals).

 

I feel like if I stay with her, that we're both wasting our time, because our futures and marriage ideals just seem different, but it'd be hard to break up with a 2 year girlfriend. What should I do???

 

Thanks very much in advance!

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

Slow down cowboy! You don't need to be worrying about such things just yet. Two months, two years, two decades - time doesn't necessarily mean it gets easier or harder to break up with someone Rowan but as you're still at school, a lot of changes are going to happen to you both over the next few years.

Personally I don't think there's anything wrong in her wanting to keep her last name, it's not that big a deal in my opinion but if it's a value you hold dear and are not prepared to change, you have to respect someone if they value the opposite.

You're both still young so honestly, if you did break up, don't be surprised to find out in ten years time that she's married (with her husband's surname) and has kids! As I said, people change but if you know now that you want children then it's important for you to find someone who shares that just don't expect to find them when you're still at school.

April 5, 2011 - submitted by Sara, United Kingdom

 

Q. Hello, Oracle!

I was on a Coldplay playlist on youtube and came across [ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCPQrRd450c&feature=bf_prev&list=PL022F530890C3F85D&index=31]this[/ame] and was puzzled. Does this have anything at all to do with Coldplay? Is this them performing it? If not, then would you happen to know what this is? Because it is indeed beautiful!

Best wishes, xxx

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

The connection is that the creator of the music - Miami Lights - has featured on our website's Exhibition Room. I would assume that's why they have tagged the video with Coldplay.

April 6, 2011 - submitted by Lien, France

 

Q. Dear Oracle,

I have the best boyfriend, we are together for almost 12 years now. I love him a lot. But I've met this man at work, we became really good friends, and I have to be honest with myself: I fell in love with him too. I didn't want to, it just happened to me. We even fit better together, because we have all the same interests. But he has a girlfriend, I have a boyfriend. I don't know what to do. I haven't told him about my feelings, I would never cheat on my boyfriend. But my feelings are driving me crazy. What do I have to do??

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

Are you truly ready for this reply Lien? Strap yourself in...

So, if you have the "best" boyfriend, why are you considering another man? If he's the best, doesn't he deserve to be treated better?

Now the harsh words are out of the way I will just point out that these things happen every day so you're not alone. I wish I could sit down and spend hours chatting but I can't.

In life we can be attracted to many people even when we are happy in relationships; it's human nature. It doesn't mean you have to do anything about it. We generally spend a lot of time with work colleagues, sometimes way more time than with partners so it's almost inevitable that bonds and friendships will form. Having things in common is great but that doesn't mean there's a future in it. Do you remember what made you fall in love with your boyfriend? Can you remember those feelings? I suggest if you want to make it work with him, remind yourself of how great he is and rediscover those first feelings by making more time to be with him. In the meantime, by all means be friends with the chap at work but resist temptation, don't flirt, don't encourage any inappropriate conversations or behaviour and don't be alone with him.

If you've really fallen in love you may not want to be with your boyfriend any longer. Try to imagine life without him in it and replaced by the new love. Ask yourself how you feel about that.

Twelve years is a very long time and perhaps your relationship seems comfortable and familiar - maybe even a little boring? You might think your feelings for the man at work seem new and exciting but there's every chance you'd feel the same way abut him in less than twelve years. See how it goes over the next few months.

 

Of course your feelings for your workmate could get so unbearable that you feel you have to tell him and risk everything you both have to be together (if he feels the same), I'd be 100% sure your feelings are true love and not lust, attraction, infatuation, or based on your ego before giving up the "best" boyfriend.

I really hope you untangle your confusion and find the best way through it.

April 6, 2011 - submitted by Helmut, Austria

 

Q. Hello,

when did you see Will, Chris, Guy and Jonny last time together?

And for some questions fans post to you, do you call one of them if you don't know exact the answer?

Thank you!

Kind Regards

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

Hmm I'm not sure when I last saw the guys together. It's usually when they're having lunch or whatnot. Generally I'll see them one or two at a time at the studio. I haven't seen Guy for a while, or Will who I last passed on the studio stairs. Chatted to Chris & Anchorman at the Bakery on the 24th March and bumped into Jonny in the local supermarket last week - we queued together talking over our groceries.

I don't normally ask them for answers, that's a very rare occurrence when I'm having a debate with myself!

April 7, 2011 - submitted by Jeen, United States of America

 

Q. My moms shoulders ache, legs and feet hurt, and she gets frequent headaches, especially when she bends down. Do you know what kind of medical issue this is? Thank You.

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

Please get your Mom to go and see a doctor. That is all I have to say. Anything to do with health is not worth any guess work. Ever.

April 7, 2011 - submitted by Douglas, Argentina

 

Q. Hi there! I wanted to ask you some things becouse I want to increase my knowledge (haha) and who else better to ask?: what is your favourite movie? what is your favourite song? what is your favourite book? what is your favourite paint?

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

The answers today may be different tomorrow so these are my favourite things right now:

Movie - Rocky

Song - Dream On by Aerosmith

Book - Brighton Rock by Graham Greene

Painting - Any of Gauguin's Polynesian women.

April 7, 2011 - submitted by Chris, Switzerland

 

Q. I don't really get it... Coldplay's Simpsons appearance... what does Homer says after "do you think.."? It's quite hard to understand for none English speaking people and I can't wait to see it in Switzerland tv... thanks for helping oracle!

 

 

The Oracle Replies:

 

He interrupts Chris to ask "Do you think you could use someone like me in your band?" After Chris says yes and suggests the tambourine Homer replies, "I said someone like me, I didn't say me".