March 7, 2012 - submitted by Valentina, Denmark[/color][/b]

 

Q. As a guitarist, I was wondering if Jonny ever did an interview for a specialized guitar magazine, like other famous guitarists do? If he did, can you direct me to it? Also has he ever considered releasing his own signature guitar? :)

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Yes, he was interviewed for Guitarist magazine back in October, 2001. We ourselves also published an interview with Jonny in January, 2009. I've never heard mention of a signature guitar. I wouldn't be surprised if he had been asked, but there isn't one out there.

 

That would make my life!!!:D

 

^If you want to submit a question to the Oracle, you need to go through the band's official site. http://www.coldplay.com

March 8, 2012 - submitted by Emma, United States of America

 

Q. Hello Oracle!

I was just wondering about the question you answered before pertaining to which concert was Chris walking inside a bubble. If this isn't Chris, he sure does have a look alike :)

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I asked around because yes, that image does look like Chris and indeed it could be Chris. Whether it's Chris in a plastic ball though is another question entirely.

 

Neither Roadie #42, Anchorman or Vicki know of this happening so we're skeptical that it ever did. Not one person has come forward to say this saw this with their own eyes. Perhaps it's footage of Wayne Coyne walking inside a bubble and someone has doctored it.

It's amazing what they can do with photoshop and trickery these days.

March 8, 2012 - submitted by Vasilis, Greece

 

Q. Hey Oracle. I am a huge fun of Coldplay I know their entire discography. I have noticed that many songs are related to China for example Princess of China, Chinese Sleep Chant etc. What is that made Coldplay write songs about that country? Thanks a lot...

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Regular readers will know that I cannot resist sarcasm. I tried, but I'm sorry I couldn't stop myself.

What are the etc. songs you refer to? I also know their entire discography and as far as I can recall, there are only those 2 songs you mention that refer to China.

They have mentioned other places:

Amsterdam

Lovers In Japan

Cemeteries of London

 

Anyway, joking aside, I don't think there's a particular reason that China was chosen for the titles of those 2 tracks; I'd guess they both sounded right.

March 8, 2012 - submitted by Joanne, United Kingdom

 

Q. I am kicking myself. Was there a video that Chris filmed holding his breath underwater all the way through? I have searched for it and can't find it.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

If you click 1999 on our timeline, then further click on SEP's television icon, you will be able to watch the Bigger Stronger video where all the band members - not just Chris - are holding their breath underwater. They don't hold it all the way through though.

Unless you're thinking of

that almost fits the description?

March 8, 2012 - submitted by Vasilis, Greece[/color][/b]

 

Q. Hey Oracle. I am a huge fun of Coldplay I know their entire discography. I have noticed that many songs are related to China for example Princess of China, Chinese Sleep Chant etc. What is that made Coldplay write songs about that country? Thanks a lot...

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Regular readers will know that I cannot resist sarcasm. I tried, but I'm sorry I couldn't stop myself.

What are the etc. songs you refer to? I also know their entire discography and as far as I can recall, there are only those 2 songs you mention that refer to China.

They have mentioned other places:

Amsterdam

Lovers In Japan

Cemeteries of London

 

Anyway, joking aside, I don't think there's a particular reason that China was chosen for the titles of those 2 tracks; I'd guess they both sounded right.

 

Fail, Oracle. They mention Japan and China in Speed of Sound. "The buildings that you put up, Japan and China all lit up.".

^^ Hahha. I was actually thinking of Radiohead while I read that. :laugh3:

Fail, Oracle. They mention Japan and China in Speed of Sound. "The buildings that you put up, Japan and China all lit up.".

 

I'm guessing the Oracle just meant titles, but yes, Speed Of Sound came immediately to mind too.

 

Chris seems to have a fascination for China AND Japan, and Asian culture in general.

March 8, 2012 - submitted by Joanne, United Kingdom[/color][/b]

 

Q. I am kicking myself. Was there a video that Chris filmed holding his breath underwater all the way through? I have searched for it and can't find it.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

If you click 1999 on our timeline, then further click on SEP's television icon, you will be able to watch the Bigger Stronger video where all the band members - not just Chris - are holding their breath underwater. They don't hold it all the way through though.

Unless you're thinking of

that almost fits the description?

 

there is a Radiohead video that does this

March 9, 2012 - 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 250 words, to [email protected] before midnight Thursday 15th March.

 

I really need your help. Yesterday, I got in an accident while trying out for varsity volleyball. I knew I wasn't going to make varsity, but I thought it would be a good experience. When we were scrimmaging, I went for a ball that was not mine and a varsity player landed on me while trying to hit from back row. Everyone was watching, including the boys team. She is injured now and out for quite some time. This is the second time my stupidity has been the cause of someone's injury. I feel like I am the one who needs to be punished. How has this happened to me two times in less than a year? I am spiraling into depression and terrified to go back to school. I don't know what to do.

Thanks, Jane. USA.

 

Look forward to seeing your replies.

The Oracle

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Please email your replies to [email protected]

March 9, 2012 - submitted by Emma, United States of America

 

Q. TEAM ORACLE QUESTION #62

Two years ago, I came out as gay to my closest friends. I thought they would accept me but I ended up losing every friend I had but one. I ended up developing severe depression for almost two years, and it got so bad that I was suicidal at one point. Now, two years later, I have a steady group of close friends who accept me and love me, but I'm not out to my extended friend group. It's uncomfortable being around them, having to pretend that I'm interested when they're talking about who they like and not being able to talk about that myself. It's near torture on a daily basis. I feel like I'm hiding part of who I am from my friends. The thing is, I'm terrified that if I come out to those friends I'll end up losing them, and I don't know if I'd be able to handle that all over again. Could you maybe help me out here? Thanks.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Emma, you're not hiding part of who you are, you are hiding who you are. Remember that one friend who stood by you the first time you came out, well it's friends like that you need to focus on.

You may be surprised by the support you get. If however your fears are confirmed and these friends react the same as the last group it would mean they are NOT your friends. If that results in you having to go through losing them, you could handle that again. You went through hell and came out the other side so you're stronger now. Surely that hell would be no worse than the one you're living in now? It shouldn't matter to anyone what your sexual orientation is. It's crazy that in 2012 there is still stigma attached to being gay but be yourself. Don't apologize for who you are. If other people don't accept you, shrug your shoulders and walk away; don't waste valuable time and energy on the negativity that comes from people's bigotry.

When you decide to tell your friends, maybe have someone with you for support - just in case. Let's try and have faith in your friends though and tell them soon. It will be a weight lifted if nothing else. Good luck! Over to you...

 

Well Emma, you are one brave girl. In the end it does not matter what other people think, only that you are happy. You say you have close friends and that is good so why the need to come out to the rest? If they are your friends they will get it or may suspect it already, if not oh well they will miss out on your friendship, don't be afraid of losing your friends be more afraid of losing who you really are by pretending to be something you are not. I consider myself to be rather open-minded but let me tell you when my child came out to me it was a real shock, I was sad because I was worried about this could make my child's life harder. What is harder was my child worrying how I would react. I was ok, I just needed some time to grasp it. Nothing changes your love or in your case real friendship, your friends will have varied reactions and comments, they will accept it if they are truly your friends, if not they never really were. I wish you all the best. Name Withheld.

 

I know how it feels to reveal a part of yourself to friends and they don't accept you, and my answer is this-you should tell your friends. Even though the same thing could happen, yet again, it could be different. If your friends truly love you then they will accept you, and if they don't, you must tell yourself that they aren't worth your time and there are better friends than them. It could be painful again, but you deserve better than how your old friends treated you and it isn't right for you to have to hide yourself. Be honest with them, and I hope everything works out. Just remember - it's not how they define you, but how you define yourself is who you are, and no one has the right to hurt you. Good luck, and I hope they love an accept you for the REAL you! Katie.

 

First of all, please know that you are not alone in your situation.

Coming out is a one day at a time, one person at a time process and millions have and are doing it worldwide.

When I came out years ago, I had some very interesting reactions from family and friends but that's another show. It was a different time.

I suggest looking into anything related to self development. Self esteem takes a real hit in this world when you're gay and especially in the tender years.

Your feelings are valid, your needs are important. Positive mirroring back of your value, can be water in a desert.

Non-shaming support groups, spiritual or otherwise can be very helpful.

In the meantime, something fun and insightful might be to get a friend who is openly gay to join you and then watch your friends to see how they respond.

Then the cream will rise to the top in terms of what friends YOU decide to choose. It could be like a silent interview they are in as you friend shop. I hope this helps, Michael.

 

First of all let me say to you that I think you are very brave. It takes a lot of courage to get out of the closet. I feel really sorry for the fact that you had to get through that. Friends need to built on each other and should be able to tell each other everything. That's part of my answer right there, you have a new group of friends and you should be able to tell them everything (you want to tell). If they are real friends they will understand you and give you the confidence boost you need to get through this difficult part of your life.

You say it feels like torture not letting them know who you are.

Think of this what would you rather have; you telling them the truth or that they will find out some other way? I think you should tell them, it will be scary, I know. Though after that you will know if they are your true friends and if they are you can overcome anything with them. Yours faithfully, Yelena.

 

It must have taken a lot of courage to come out to your friends, and I admire you for it. The people who stopped being a part of your life after you came out were probably never your true friends to begin with, because an important part of friendship is sticking by each other through everything. I'm deeply sorry for how difficult it was for you to cope, but you made it - which is another thing I admire. No one who is gay should be treated any differently than those who aren't. That is why I think that you need come out to those people as soon as possible. If they're true friends, they will still be by your side. If they end up walking away, then let them. Think about it: would you really want to be friends with people who don't accept you? Someone once told me "there is always a reason to smile" and it's true, even when there are times in your life when that couldn't seem further away from the truth. Life is an extraordinary gift with many ups and downs. When you fall down, the only way is up. Keep that in mind and also remember that so many people love you! Please, don't ever give up on life because I believe that you're capable of greatness. I wish you all the luck and happiness in the world. Sincerely, Medina.

 

Emma, a true friend loves you for who you are, if they don't they aren't true friends. I only share my real self with the two people closest to me. Others I give my warmth and positive energy to and some glimpses of me. We all have been rejected and hurt and hopefully learn to whom we can share ourselves with and whom we should keep more as casual friends. When socializing, it is how you make others feel when they are around you, it's not about you. If these friends really don't know you're gay, and you feel this need to share this about you, you can let them know without being "in your face" about it. Show that things don't have to change and that you are still the same person. It is usually confusion that makes people uncomfortable, like you might be interested in them in that way too. Help them understand who you are, the caring, vibrant person of your spirit. Then if they reject you on account of this, then they weren't friends to begin with and stay with your steady group. People reject other people all the time from jealousy and confusion. People like to be around like minded people. Just don't let rejection set you back and make you feel less. Never let anyone have power over you, just focus on the beauty that is within you. Dawn.

 

I can understand your longing for acceptance as I often find myself in similar situations for one reason or another. I also know it's hard not to want to fit in and be liked. However, for others to accept us, we have to accept ourselves. Instead of changing yourself for them, or pretending to be someone you're not, be honest with them and let your personality shine through. Know that your true friends will stick with you because of who you are and the things you do, not because of who you like and dislike. You deserve better friends than those who abandoned you and I'm very glad to hear you now have some that you are comfortable around. I think you should tell your other friends as well to give your relationships with them a chance to grow, but remember that you don't need their approval to be happy. Wish you the best. Love, Darem.

 

I'm so sorry to hear about what happened and you're situation. I'm glad that you do still have circle of friends. I think to solve your problem there are many solutions. One of these solutions may be to have one of your friends tell them. I know it may sound like you're a coward when you do this but once they tell them you won't have to do it. They may or may not accept it, but I personally think that that is a risk worth taking. I know that your previous experience wasn't so nice with this. But maybe if your closer friends tell them it will soften the blow. If they ask why you did it in this particular way you could tell them about that previous experience you had, and how it affected you. If you don't want to do it this way I'd take that close group of friends and have them support you as much as possible while you tell them. If you decide to do it this way, I'd first start off by explaining to them what happened two years ago and how it affected you and then maybe slowly build towards your point. I think that this would just make them understand better why you're telling them and how keeping it secret is really frustrating.

I really admire your courage. I really do. Stay strong and don't give up. Silke, Barcelona.

 

Emma, love is always a controversial topic, and a lot of people have difficulty of coping with the concept of homosexuality, it can be a serious issue to someone, and for you friends, you have to be delicate. The problem you're in isn't that they won't accept you for it, it is that you have been waiting to tell them for two years. Whether it be homosexuality or anything else, you cannot hold things back from your friends that they need to know about you. Losing your friends is a horrible thing to hear about, but I feel like if one of my friends held something back, that led me to thinking they're a different person then they really are, I would be estranged too, but don't get me wrong, what your former friends did isn't something anyone should have to go through.

My advice, go ahead and tell your new friends that you are gay, but don't lay it on bluntly, you need to ease it onto them. Put yourself in their shoes, mentally, see how you would react. You've waited a bit long for this, but I feel that if you go ahead and tell them, and explain the whole story to them, you'll end up with your friends at your side. Best wishes, Bradley H.

 

Thanks to all those who wrote in with their thoughts. Remember, Team Oracle is open to anyone so if you fancy replying, click to read this week's question, and send us your answer.

March 12, 2012 - submitted by Elaine, Ireland

 

Q. I have front row tickets to see Coldplay in the Hollywood Bowl. As I'm Irish I'm used to an enthusiastic crowd (eg Oxegen 2011 BRILL) But Jesus the Yanks just stand there with what I would consider, total lack of respect. Do I take an Irish flag and give the band the reaction they deserve or just shut up and stand????

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Er, I have to disagree there Elaine as I think you're being harsh on the American fans. Whenever I have seen the band in the States (4 times), the crowd has always been amazing. In fact, I remember one particular show where I couldn't understand why the audience were screaming as if at an *NSYNC concert!

Given you're on the front row I am sure you'll be able to react to the band in your own way so go for it and don't worry what anyone else is doing.

I'm a quarter Irish and love all things Emerald Isle but as the band aren't Irish I am wondering why you feel the need to take a flag at all? If it's because you're from nearer their home, maybe just say it with a t-shirt as that's not likely to block anyone's view.

March 12, 2012 - submitted by Frank, United Kingdom

 

Q. I watched Coldplay at dingwells a few months ago and noticed Chris has got rid of his 'fairtrade equals sign' tattoo, I know he is dedicated to Oxfam and charity work but is there any reason to getting rid of such an important sign of Coldplay and what they stand for?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

The reason you didn't see it at Dingwalls is because the Make Trade Fair equal sign wasn't a tattoo.

If you use the search option and type in tattoo, the answer to this from 2008 will appear.

Coldplay stand for many things but don't mark themselves permanently with causes. It doesn't mean the band no longer believe in it; Oxfam are represented at every live date on each tour.

Chris hasn't drawn the sign on his hand since around 2005.

March 12, 2012 - submitted by Isabel, Venezuela

 

Q. What happened to the LeftRightLeftRightLeftRight download? I was going to download because my laptop was damage, and now is fixed, but I can't download, or well I can't see the link! Please help :(

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

The LeftRightLeftRightLeft download is still available on this website; we moved it to the Archive section.

March 13, 2012 - submitted by Karen, United Kingdom

 

Q. You have said before that the guys dont have twitter accounts and not to follow them, but does Dan Greene have one? and if this is so, why is he following the fake Guy and Jonny accounts???

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Er, well that mostly depends on which Dan Green you are following doesn't it?

The one I follow (the Dan who works with the band) doesn't follow the fake Guy & Jonny accounts.

March 13, 2012 - submitted by John, United Kingdom

 

Q. This is a bit of a long shot, but I used to teach Jonathan Buckland in his last 2 years of Primary School. He was the goal keeper in our school football team and also - not surprisingly - had a star role in our school Christmas concert! The kids used to call me Mr D. I have two sons from my first marriage - they are both Coldplay fanatics! I am now re-married and have two step-daughters who think they are brill as well. Trouble is, they don't really believe me when I say I used to teach Jonny. Is there any way he would consider sending me an email to prove I'm not spinning them a yarn? Many thanks, John

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Nice little insight into the young Buckland there, thank you. Have you tried asking the school as they must have a photo of their football teams in the archives somewhere? Or even the Christmas concert...

I'm ever so sorry but I'm not sure I want to open the floodgates of validation requests.

March 13, 2012 - submitted by Yvonne, United Kingdom

 

Q. I hope the Oracle can help, I'm probably panicking too soon, but I bought tickets from ticket master for the June Coldplay gig at the Emirates, and haven't had the tickets yet. Has anyone else? I will be completely gutted if something has gone wrong.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I have if anyone else has got their tickets yet but rest assured yours are not late according to the event info so you can stop panicking.

Ticketmaster do state on their website that "tickets for this event are provided directly by the promoter and not printed by Ticketmaster and may not be despatched until ten days before the event".

March 13, 2012 - submitted by John, United Kingdom[/color][/b]

 

Q. This is a bit of a long shot, but I used to teach Jonathan Buckland in his last 2 years of Primary School. He was the goal keeper in our school football team and also - not surprisingly - had a star role in our school Christmas concert! The kids used to call me Mr D. I have two sons from my first marriage - they are both Coldplay fanatics! I am now re-married and have two step-daughters who think they are brill as well. Trouble is, they don't really believe me when I say I used to teach Jonny. Is there any way he would consider sending me an email to prove I'm not spinning them a yarn? Many thanks, John

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Nice little insight into the young Buckland there, thank you. Have you tried asking the school as they must have a photo of their football teams in the archives somewhere? Or even the Christmas concert...

I'm ever so sorry but I'm not sure I want to open the floodgates of validation requests.

 

Too cool! I'd love to see photos if the school did indeed keep records. :)

March 13, 2012 - submitted by John, United Kingdom[/color][/b]

 

Q. This is a bit of a long shot, but I used to teach Jonathan Buckland in his last 2 years of Primary School. He was the goal keeper in our school football team and also - not surprisingly - had a star role in our school Christmas concert! The kids used to call me Mr D. I have two sons from my first marriage - they are both Coldplay fanatics! I am now re-married and have two step-daughters who think they are brill as well. Trouble is, they don't really believe me when I say I used to teach Jonny. Is there any way he would consider sending me an email to prove I'm not spinning them a yarn? Many thanks, John

 

Yay, go Jonny!!! :awesome:

March 14, 2012 - submitted by Isabel, United Kingdom

 

Q. Where have Coldplay toured? I need a list of all the places they have ever toured/peformed?

Quick as possible please!!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

We don't have a gigography Isabel but there are plenty of resources online that contain their live shows to date. Try clicking here, here and here.

March 14, 2012 - submitted by StRanger, Finland

 

Q. Hi The Oracle, who knows everything (yeah?). I guess I can find this somewhere in the big Internet-world with a little moment searching but I make you this question anyway. Uhm, after these long storys there's the question:

What is the font Coldplay used in Parachutes until Viva la Vida and what is that font they use in Mylo Xyloto (in album covers etc)? Can I download them somewhere?

Hope you answer and have a nice day! (And I hope this text is understandable)

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

The font used for Parachutes is available yes, it's called Albertus. Our MX font isn't as it is a bespoke bubble font.

March 15, 2012 - submitted by Hedy, United States of America

 

Q. Hello Oracle!

I have been desperately searching for some floor seats to the show in Atlanta, GA on July 2nd. However, ticketmaster no longer has them. So, if I purchase tickets from eBay or StubHub, there wouldn't be any problems when presenting my tickets, would there? I don't think so, but I have seen some previous oracle questions mentioning that one's ID must be presented, and if I am buying someone else's ticket, I don't want any complications! Thanks!

 

Hedy

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

As far as I know I.D is required to collect pre-paid tickets from the box office so you should be fine buying from a 3rd party as long as they already have their tickets in hand. Of course I would always advise to buy from a reputable company as otherwise there is always a chance you could somehow be at risk.

March 15, 2012 - submitted by Josh Smullen, United Kingdom

 

Q. Will the stages for the UK Stadium tour strut into the crowd like I've seen on previous gigs? Would be amazing if they did!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I'm pretty sure that a runway jutting out of the stage will always be there. It's a great way to connect with the audience and of course, the band have had a 'B stage' section performed there too so don't think they'd be keen to lose that.

March 15, 2012 - submitted by Naty, United Kingdom

 

Q. The other day I got to thinking what would be the height of Chris, because he seems high and then search the internet and found a place where you You put the name of the celebrity and you could know the height of the famous, so Chris and I started said the measures 1.86 tall! is this true? I think not, but out of curiosity ...

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Really? Wow. I did not know about that site. That's 1.86 meters so over 6 feet tall does sound about right, yes

March 15, 2012 - submitted by Pablo, Paraguay

 

Q. Hi dear Oracle... i read somewhere Chris have a radio program whic the people can hear music of coldplay and Chris 24hs.... thats true? can you give us the web address please?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

There's loads of ways to sort of make your own Coldplay radio by making playlists of what you've got or using Spotify for example. Here's a site that claim to be Coldplay radio program.

^I think he meant the interview where Chris said he had a 'radio station' in his head that played music 24 hours a day. He must have misunderstood what Chris meant. :laugh3: