More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1400 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

August 19, 2010 - submitted by Kathryn, United States of America

Q. Does the band plan to still have the C stage on their next tour?

The Oracle replies:

Well you know me well enough to know that I couldn't and wouldn't reveal any future plans but what I will say is that the past couple of tours had a segment of the show set aside where the band would leave the main stage to perform for the audience further back. I can't imagine them not continuing to find a way to do this but it's not set in stone and of course if it was - I wouldn't say!

August 19, 2010 - submitted by Dany, Italy

Q. Is this true? (Coldplay Plays For Universal Music & Makes Big $$$ For Doing So!)

The Oracle replies:

Here are the facts: Coldplay signed to BMG Music Publishing in 1999. BMG were later bought out by Universal and so Coldplay automatically became part of that deal. Caroline Elleray who signed them to BMG is now Head of A&R at Universal and when the band's contract came up for renewal the boys renewed it. It's a very normal negotiation.

August 19, 2010 - submitted by Suzanne, United Kingdom

Q. Mighty Oracle, please give me some motivation to lose weight apart from:

1. It is highly healthy

2. I'll be much more beautiful

3. I might make Alex Turner fall in love with me and leave his stupendous Alexa Chung for this.

I'm seriously down since I used to be so skinny and now that I'm a little depressed I gained kind of 6.700 lbs. I know there's more important things than this, but I'm really sad about it. HELP ME IF YOU CAN, I'M FEELING DOWN.

The Oracle replies:

Right Suzanne I am worried about you even though you're aware there are more important things... 6.7lbs is not even half a stone. What is it about girls and weight? That makes me really sad. Ignore airbrushed photographs of people who have access to personal trainers and dieticians. Your motivation should only be health; happiness does not necessarily follow weight loss. It's not always healthy to lose weight and can be dangerous. I don't know what you currently weigh or if it was quite recent when you were "so skinny" but if you want to lose weight because you are obese and want to get healthier fair enough. If however you are an ideal weight for your age, height and build - which sounds like "so skinny" + 6.7 lbs could be - then you do not need to lose any weight at all. It's natural to put it on as you get older by the way and I wouldn't imagine 6.7 lbs is going to make you less beautiful. Beauty is not relevant to size and sorry to burst your bubble but it ain't gonna make Alex Turner leave his girlfriend (who by the way I personally do not find attractive as she is too skinny for my taste).

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August 17, 2010 - submitted by Rebeca, Portugal

Q. Aloha Mr. Oracle, My head made up a question weeks ago. I really like to read Roadie #42 and when I read "Roadie #42 and the Texas cable massacre" (or something like that) I didn't understand what happened on that video. And, though I have read that thousands of times I still don't catch it. Could you please explain it to me or am I too stupid to get it? Oh and I would like your opinion to something really important: I'm writing a book and I still haven't got an idea for the name of the main character. He's just a regular British boy so I thought that I could call him Will (my favourite name), but that name is sooo used in books and films... what do you think I should call him? ps: I'm sorry for my English!

The Oracle replies:

Blog #55 is called "#42 and the Texan cable massacre" and shows Chris knock out the cable from Will's guitar which cuts its sound. You call that character anything you like Rebeca, Will sounds just fine to me. Yes there are many characters named that but there are a lot of men called that too.

August 18, 2010 - submitted by Tine, Denmark

Q. Dear Oracle, I just found this video: Do you know when and where it's from? Thank you!

The Oracle replies:

Yes, after the release of X&Y the band performed promotional duties and that particular clip is from an acoustic performance in Japan which also featured 'Til Kingdom Come, A Message and Warning Sign.

August 18, 2010 - submitted by Allie, United States of America

Q. If you had to pick one college or university in the States, where would you go?

The Oracle replies:

There were 5 questions in a row from you but with 2 different email addresses. You can just use one as there's no limit to how many questions you can ask even though I may limit the amount I answer; of course that would be dependent on how good your questions are! Anyway, thanks to films when I was growing up I'd heard of the Ivy League and 2 particular unis stuck in my mind: Harvard and Yale - they seem to have a similar reputation to Oxford and Cambridge here in the UK. That said, I'd pick California Institute of the Arts for myself; sun and creativity! To tackle a couple of your other queries: the people that tell the band that their songs need work, apart from themselves, are colleagues, friends, family and close confidantes. Also yes, I was serious about the Tiger Balm. I'm pretty sure that yes, Chris would think I was weird for sniffing him which is why I have no intention of smelling the rest of the band (as many have asked) to report back what their odours are!

August 17, 2010 - submitted by Becca, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle :) I have a huge problem with my boyfriend, and I know that you probably get a lot of questions like this...but we have been going out for about 8 months now, and now he's told me he likes someone else. I don't know who she is...and he's being all apologetic and acting funny...I love him to bits and I don't know what to do... Please please please can you help me, I don't know who else I can turn to! Thank you soooo much! :)

The Oracle replies:

I am so sorry to break this to you but don't waste any time on this person; hold your head up high and walk away with your pride intact. This will not help you right now but in time maybe you will respect the fact that he was honest enough to tell you even though hearing this information has no doubt turned your world upside down. My philosophy is this: once the pain subsides let your rational thinking allow you to realise that you would not want to be with someone who does not want to be with you. That is hopefully what you would tell your friend if she was in the same situation. I think it's always wise to imagine what advice you would give to someone else although it's very much more difficult when it's happening to you in the here and now.

August 17, 2010 - submitted by Edwina, Australia

Q. Hey Oracle, I am the worst decision maker ever! According to my friends a change my mind a ridiculous amount of times! Therefore can you make my decision for me? I've just started Uni and I'm really keen to go on exchange - however I don't know where to go! I'm stuck between USA (where I have never been) and England (where I have been and LOVED). Should I go with what I know and love or should a take a chance and go to the USA? Please help me make up my mind!! Love from Australia

The Oracle replies:

Ah Edwina you know I can't make the decision for you. There are so many times in life where we settle within our comfort zone and familiarity certainly can be reassuring but maybe you should consider the opportunities available to you in each place. You haven't been specific with the exact location though so I can't even make some interesting comments. That would certainly influence my choice if I was picking. England is a very small country within the UK versus the vastness of the US. You could make an informed decision based on so many factors - weather, culture, financial reasons etc. I think you need to draw up a list of what you'd like to experience while you are at Uni and do plenty of research into the available colleges, their areas as well as their respective countries. There should be a clear winner in your heart or gut. You can always visit the country you don't choose in the future maybe as part of a gap year, vacation or perhaps another opportunity may arise.

August 16, 2010 - submitted by Jamie, United States of America

Q. Hi Oracle, would you go find Chris, smell him and report back as to what he smells like?

The Oracle replies:

It just so happens that on the Latin American tour I found a scarf as we were coming through one airport. I assumed it belonged to someone in our party so picked it up. I sat on the plane smelling its soothing and intoxicating smell when suddenly I turned to Chris and said "Erm, is this yours?" He confirmed it was - the reason I knew was that it smelled of him. Up to that point I hadn't realised I even knew what Chris Martin smelled like (well, it's weird isn't it?) and it turns out it's Tiger Balm!

August 16, 2010 - submitted by Hannah, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, I really need you. I just moved in at a college in another state. All of my friends from high school went to a different university and I know absolutely no one here. I'm worried that I won't be able to make any friends and that I will be miserable for the next four years. I just said goodbye to my family and I've never felt so alone in my entire life. Is there anything you can say that will make me feel better? Thank you, -H

The Oracle replies:

Yes: "and this too shall pass". All you have to remember is this... you are not the first or the last person who has felt the exact same feelings that you are experiencing. That is a fact I promise you. Not everyone at your college will know someone and you will not be alone for the next four years I promise you that too. What you feel is very natural by the way so don't think me dismissive but you need to have faith and dig deep. Going to college is a scary thing but you already made the brave step to join it, all you need do now is join in! Maybe not just metaphorically speaking either, how about you join a club or society, look around and see who looks like the type of person you'd like to get to know, take a deep breath and say hello? You can do this, go for it!

August 16, 2010 - submitted by Colin, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, What's the best cheese choice for a pickle, cheese, and crisp sandwich? Much love from the stomach.

The Oracle replies:

For me there's no contest; a grated hard cheese - either Cheddar or Red Leicester.

August 16, 2010 - submitted by Ibrahim, Saudi Arabia

Q. Hi O, regarding the last answered question by Lauren: The song was not in the list you provided. The song is In The Sun - Michael Stipe featuring Chris which made the confusion of Coldplay playing the song. I've asked you about the same song a while ago and discovered later after your helpful answer that Grey's Anatomy episode is what made the song stuck in my head. Regard

The Oracle replies:

Ah, a lot of folk pointed this out and yes, I recall you asking a while back... Thanks for letting myself & Lauren know what the song actually is!

August 13, 2010 - submitted by Lauren, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, This has been driving me insane for the past week, and I was wondering if you could help me. I was watching an episode of Grey's Anatomy from season 2. The name of the episode is called As We Know It (espisode 17), and it involves a patient who has an unexploded bomb inside of him. At the very end of this episode there is a song, which is played, and I could have sworn that it was a Coldplay song. However, it wasn't familiar to me, and I searched and searched for that song, but could not find the name of it. I was wondering if you know what this song is called? Thank so much for even allowing me to ask you this question! BeSt WiShEs, Lauren

The Oracle replies:

That particular episode didn't feature any Coldplay songs but there were a lot of artists in this one... Here's a list of all the songs which should help you track down the one you loved:

I Tell Myself by Correatown

Homebird by Foy Vance

Stay Where You Are Ambulance LTD

Unlike Me by Kate Havnevik

World Spins Madly On by The Weepies

Breathe (2AM) by Anna Nalick

Back In The Wild by Greenskeepers

August 13, 2010 - submitted by Jacky, Australia

Q. Who is the photographer that takes all the photos we see on the Roadie blogs?

The Oracle replies:

Roadie #42 takes his own photos for his blogs. Multi-talented isn't he?

August 13, 2010 - submitted by Siobhain, Australia

Q. Hi Oracle, Given that it's Friday the 13th I thought I'd ask if you were superstitious?

The Oracle replies:

I have to say that no, I am not superstitious at all. In fact, I walk under ladders and everything just to prove theories wrong!

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The Sun today rounded-up Coldplay news nicely with an article that continues the Universal publishing deal theme as well as a little insight into what has been happening between recording sessions. Here's what they had to say earlier today:

Coldplay have never been in better shape - financially or physically. Except for frontman Chris Martin's ankle injury, that is, after I showed him on his holibags in the US yesterday wearing a protective boot. The band have just signed a huge publishing deal for future songwriting, which is one of the biggest in music industry history.

Chris, guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman and drummer Will Champion agreed their first contract in 1999 with BMG Music Publishing, before releasing first album Parachutes. Now, with their fifth record due next year, they have penned fresh terms with Univeral Music Publishing - who bought out the other outfit and are the biggest firm in the business. No one will officially reveal how many years the deal is for or how much it's worth. But the lads, who always split their earnings equally, should easily trouser a few million quid each.

Last night Universal president Paul Connolly said: "They've sold more than 50 million albums worldwide and their huge success is entirely deserved. We're obviously very proud."

But it is not just the rockers' bank balances that are bulging - their muscles are looking pretty impressive too. They have been taking their personal training very seriously between final recording sessions at their north London studio for the new album - a follow-up to 2008's Vida La Vida. They have been hitting the gym with their personal coach, playing football and doing lots of yoga. And Chris has also developed an unhealthy obsession with table tennis - which is proving costly.

He has regularly been throwing down the gauntlet and challenging members of the band and their crew to some big-money games. But his confidence was misplaced recently when he lost a grand to one of the Coldplay staffers. A source told me: "Chris challenged a roadie to a big table-tennis game and lost out. But he went straight to the kitty and handed over the wedge. He's very generous like that."

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Voting for the Digital Music Awards 2010 has opened following a one year haitus for the awards. Coldplaying.com needs your votes in the Best Fansite category. To vote for us click here. It's easy - you can either register to vote or use your existing Facebook account to vote for Coldplaying - every vote counts in the extremely competetive Fansite category - and your votes for Coldplaying are much appreciated! Please remember that you are allowed to vote each day - not just once.

We hope to build upon our 54th place in 2003, 44th place in 2004, 36th place in 2005, 11th place in 2007 and 4th place in 2008. Please pledge your support to Coldplaying.com and by casting your vote for the site before voting closes on 27th September. Thanks for all your support so far during 2010!

Coldplay has extended its publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group to cover future song writing. Financial terms or the length of the contract was not revealed. Universal has been the band’s publisher since 2007 when the music major acquired BMG Music Publishing, the group's original publisher. More on this is at the Coldplay forum here onwards.

Caroline Elleray, current head of A&R, Universal Music Publishing U.K., had originally signed the multiple Grammy-winning four-piece to BMG Music Publishing in 1999. In a statement, Paul Connolly, president of Europe and U.K., Universal Music Publishing, hailed the band as "all that's great about music today."

Connolly went on to say: "They're incredibly talented, they write fantastic songs, and they deliver amazing shows to their fans. They've sold over 50 million albums worldwide and their huge success is entirely deserved. We're obviously very proud to be Coldplay's publisher so it's great that we've been able to extend our relationship with them in this way".

Dave Holmes of 3D Management, the band's manager added: "Coldplay and myself are pleased to continue our relationship with Universal Music Publishing. Paul and Caroline are the best in the business and we are happy to be a part of their ever growing family," Holmes continued.

Coldplay is currently in the studio working on its as-yet-untitled fifth studio set.

Pictures of Chris Martin enjoying a beach party wearing an ankle support (August 2010):

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August 11, 2010 - submitted by Svenky, France

Q. Hi Oracle ! It's true or not? From twitter: "Chris Martin wrote the song Yellow after a family holiday to Osaka in 1996". Thank You, Sven

The Oracle replies:

Yellow wasn't written until 1999 so no that's not at all true. There wasn't a family holiday in Osaka either! The twitter page you saw will have absolutely no connection to anyone in the band so is not a trusted source of information. God only knows where people get some of this stuff from in the first place...August 11, 2010 - submitted by Jim, United Kingdom

Q. Oracle, A while back you answered a question about Chris not playing the guitar on Yellow in Live 2003. Why did he not want to play? And do the technicians/backstage people play some instruments that the band can't/don't want to play? Also, do you think Chris Martin looks a bit like Formula 1 driver Jenson Button, or is it just me?! Jim

The Oracle replies:

At that time Chris wanted to do something different during the song to make it more interesting for the audience and for himself. It was decided that Matt McGinn would play the guitar part on that tour but generally speaking the techs don't play instruments; the band do. There are occasions where backing tracks are used for instance, the introduction to Life in Technicolor... You're not the only one to comment on a similarity between Chris and Jenson but although I see why people say that, I don't really think it's a great likeness.

August 10, 2010 - submitted by Allie, United States of America

Q. Did Jonny specifically choose the same black top hat as Sherlock Holmes in the Christmas Message 2006 because of his liking for the book/movie? Thanks

The Oracle replies:

The idea behind the hats was initially inspired by The Christmas Carol look so it wasn't anything to do with Sherlock at all.

August 10, 2010 - submitted by Kate, United States of America

Q. Oracle, can you help me please? I just started dating this guy a couple months ago. He's like so perfect. Anyway, he just got out of a really, really serious relationship. Everyone thinks I'm just the rebound. He says it's serious. How do I know if I'm just a rebound or if it's more than a fling?

The Oracle replies:

Many people do go from one relationship straight into another and for some it's not a problem. It can depend on many factors whether it works in the long term. It's for you to decide not me or your friends but be wary; he may still have some issues from his previous relationship. Take it slowly and see how things go but ultimately look after yourself and if you ever feel that it's not right, do what's best for you.

August 9, 2010 - submitted by Rose, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, What is the name of The Simpsons episode where Coldplay appeared? :)

The Oracle replies:

The 21st season aired the 11th episode - Million Dollar Maybe - in which Coldplay appeared.

August 9, 2010 - submitted by Teddy, United States of America

Q. O Oracle, I was wondering who did the cover Parachutes and how they got the effect of the lit spinning globe and such. I was really stunned by the artwork and that was ultimately what compelled to buy the record, which in turn created my lifelong love of Coldplay. Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

It was actually a lamp so the light was already inside the globe. The shutter speed of the camera is key to the actual effect.

August 9, 2010 - submitted by Bekkane, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle. I'm sixteen and I'm trying to grow up and become more mature. But I have whiney friends and giggly sisters and I'm a sophomore. I'm trying to take responsibility and re invent myself into a smarter, more mature person who can handle my own business (thank you very much) but I don't want to lose my sense of humor or not be able to laugh. Any ideas? Thank you Oracle. I really, really do love Coldplay.

The Oracle replies:

I say chill out and enjoy being sixteen. You'll have plenty of situations come up in the future that will require a grown-up seriousness and you may yearn for this time you were 16! You can be responsible of course but you know what, just let maturity come to you, don't try and make it happen any sooner. By the way, getting old does not mean you lose your sense of humour. It's all about suitable behaviour so obviously laughing at an inappropriate time isn't advisable but there's no rule saying you can't have fun past a certain age.

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Natalie Imbruglia's latest album "Come To Life" has flopped, peaking at number 67 on the ARIA music charts, selling a meager 750 copies in its first week. The album features three co-writes with Coldplay, tracks called Lukas, Fun and Want. More discussion on the album flop is at the Coldplay forum here onwards.

In February 2009, The Sun claimed that Imbruglia was collaborating with Coldplay. It was later confirmed by Chris Martin himself and people involved in the recording process that he had worked with Imbruglia on a "string of tracks". The song "Lukas", produced by Brian Eno and Rik Simpson, has been confirmed to be left-off from Coldplay's recording session for the album "Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends".

In a March 2009 interview, Chris Martin regretted letting the song go, although at the time of the interview Coldplay fans didn't know which track he was referring to. "A bit annoyingly we've given Natalie the best Coldplay song of all time," he said. "Half of me wishes we still had it. But she sounds brilliant on it."

Natalie Imbruglia had previously joked that collaborating with Chris Martin was hard work. 'When I worked with Chris Martin he was very honest and brutal with me,' Natalie, 34, tells NME. 'He helped me with my tracklisting and we got rid of riff-raff. Sometimes we agreed, sometimes we disagreed... the hard bit is him saying which songs he doesn't like, but it's refreshing to have someone of that calibre with you. So yes - I had a semi-nervous breakdown.'

Imbruglia is now taking time to re-evaluate life, saying you need the hide of a rhinoceros to work in the music industry, The Sunday Telegraph has reported. "I'm deciding how I feel. It's breathing space to figure out how I'll continue - or if I will continue. Oops! Did that slip out?'' said Imbruglia, who is now based in London. "We will see. I've put everything on hold to do this show. I'll take time out to figure it out. It's really hard out there, there's not as much money in the industry. They don't want to pay for campaigns. There have definitely been frustrations trying to put records out and do it the way I want."

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August 5, 2010 - submitted by Ethan, United States of America

Q. Greetings Oracle, This message is directed at Phil or Dave, a response from either or both would be equally desirable. I have a question regarding the abysmally awful state of documentaries about Coldplay. I've seen nearly every one of them, as far as those that are available here in the U.S., and not a single one of them is of any quality or credibility to reflect that of the band. Please advise if possible. Thank you, and best wishes. Ethan

The Oracle replies:

You are entitled to your opinion of course and whilst you'd like a response from Phil or Dave, you're stuck with me. After all it's my name at the top of the page ;) So in reply I direct you to the best documentary by far (in my honest opinion) and hope this appeases you Ethan.

August 5, 2010 - submitted by Yelva, United States of America

Q. I just heard the bit of Chris singing Parachutes during the Guadalajara show. Was he getting a little choked up by emotion? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

No but I think most of the audience were! That was something that took everyone by surprise as none of us had heard that song live for quite some time.

August 4, 2010 - submitted by John, United States of America

Q. Why are the band laughing in this video?

The Oracle replies:

When the video gets to around the 1 minute 45 seconds mark the band laugh as Chris has just sang the wrong lyrics! For verse 2 he repeats the second line of verse 1...

August 4, 2010 - submitted by Alison, United States of America

Q. Wise Oracle, how is it possible for my friend and I to have practically the same exact dream? The dream was about our friends trying to climb this mountain to get to heaven. Then I remembered before I went to bed that night, I listened to the Coldplay song 42. And the line in the song that says "You didn't get to heaven but you made it close" really related to our dreams! -Ali

The Oracle replies:

It's not all that uncommon; it's happened to me. I was sharing a twin room on a business trip and I swear my friend stole my dream as they had the same one as me! Here comes another theory of mine: I reckon my dream was above me hovering in the room as I slept and it ended up in their head on its journey back instead of back to me. Listening to 42 and its lyrics certainly explains your dream content and therefore it's not exactly a coincidence or anything extraordinary...

August 4, 2010 - submitted by Gretchen, United States of America

Q. Hello, Oracle! Last summer when I saw Coldplay in concert, I purchased a bottle of water and was surprised when the cashier wouldn't let me keep the cap to the bottle. I politely questioned this, and she said it was the band's request. Were they worried I would throw the cap at them or something? xo, Gretchen

The Oracle replies:

I'm not trying to diss the cashier or anything but that is not true at all; it is standard venue policy. Sadly at times it is quite common for people to throw their bottles and if the cap is off there's more chance that any contents are dispelled in travel causing less damage should said bottle land on someone's head for instance.

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Coldplay's final video of the Viva la Vida era has been nominated for best Breakthrough Video at this year's MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs). More on this is at the Coldplay forum here [thanks clisaj]

In this category Coldplay will be up against Dan Black (Symphonies), Gorillaz featuring Bobby Womack and Mos Def (Stylo) and The Black Keys (Tighen Up). If Coldplay win this category, it will be the fourth award for the Strawberry Swing video. Back in October 2009 at the UK Music Video Awards Strawberry Swing and video makers Shynola were awarded an impressive three category wins, including the coveted Video of the Year award, best animation in a video and best rock video at the ceremondy at Odeon West End cinema in Leicester Square, London.

The awards ceremony is due to take place in Los Angeles on 12 September. Lady Gaga landed a record 13 nominations for the MTV Video Music Awards, ahead of rap star Eminem who captured eight nods.

Strawberry Swing is your favourite Coldplay video from the Viva Era!

We asked you what your favourite video from Viva la Vida era was - and interestingly the last three videos that Coldplay put out are so far the most popular. Shynola's hard work on the Strawberry Swing is recognised as it gets the highest number of votes, followed by the creativity of the Life In Technicolor ii stage-show in second and the fast-paced Lovers In Japan follows closely in third.

You can add to the vote here - look out for more polls soon. The results so far in this poll are as follows:

Here are some stills from the Strawberry Swing video...

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August 2, 2010 - submitted by Helmut, Austria

Q. Servus Oracle, have you experienced the same: If somebody is yawning next to you, even you're not really tired it catches you as well and you have to yawn?! Why is this? Thanks

The Oracle replies:

Fascinating isn't it? When I was younger I used to think that the other person yawned because the yawner had sucked their share of air with their yawn & they then had less oxygen to breathe! Ah how I loved my theory... Anyway there's some interesting articles on the contagiousness of yawns... Maybe you can decide what you think after reading some of them?

August 2, 2010 - submitted by Em, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle! In response to Nikolina, Sweden from 30th July, it may be of interest that there is a LRLRL swappage project happening where fans can send CDs to those who have none. All they have to do is go here and put their names down! Hope that is of use for Coldplay fans who want to help share the love!! Sorry this isn't a question! xoxo

The Oracle replies:

Not a question but a very informative submission. Thanks to the three other fans who also sent these details.

August 2, 2010 - submitted by Aranel, United States of America

Q. Is this outrageous?

The Oracle replies:

Yes! Please don't spend that much money on a book that is actually £14.99 here in the U.K.

July 30, 2010 - submitted by Nikolina, Sweden

Q. I have a question about leftrightleftrightleft disc. Is there a chance to buy it somewhere? My mother was at their concert and got it but now it has been stolen and I want to try to get back to the disc, so there is no chance that they can buy it and not download it?

The Oracle replies:

I'm afraid not. The only place it was available as a physical copy was at the live concerts. If you go to our homepage and click on the butterfly icon underneath my Oracle teaser, you can download it from there. Other than that I am sure there are some copies available for sale online but I'd rather not point you in the direction of profiteers!!

July 30, 2010 - submitted by Meridith, United States of America

Q. When you look up at the big, black sky at night, what is the first constellation you look for?

The Oracle replies:

Hmmm well I am not going with your theory of the sky at night being black but always without exception The Plough.

July 30, 2010 - submitted by Esther, Nicaragua

Q. Hi, Oracle. Nice to meet you. :) I love stars so much, it has a special meaning in my life. That's why Yellow is one of my favorites songs. My ex-boyfriend - now friend - knows that. I think he's with someone else right now but days ago he wrote in his facebook profile: "Look how they shine for you..." What's going on in here? He dedicated my favorite song to someone else? Or He still thinking of me? :O

The Oracle replies:

Oh no, you're not Daniel's ex are you?? Don't try to work out what he's thinking; seriously it's a waste of your time and energy... Maybe being friends with him is not that good for you?

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July 29, 2010 - submitted by Kat, Mexico

Q. Dear Oracle, time ago, I read in Wikipedia that the name of Coldplay came from a poem. I been trying to find it but I'm not sure if it's right can you give me an answer please. I will be very pleased if you can tell me what poem is or if it's real or not... anyway thanks! I just love Coldplay and its music it is pure poetry.

The Oracle replies:

It's not one single poem; it's a collection of poetry called Child's Reflections, Cold Play written by Philip Horky. There really should be more copies pressed up due to its increased popularity since the band took the name but at the moment if you can find a copy it's actually expensive to buy.

July 29, 2010 - submitted by Alison, United States of America

Q. Wise Oracle, why does the Roadie book say "If you want to show off your dance moves, make sure Chris Martin's dad's watching."? What does Matt (the author) mean by that?

The Oracle replies:

I mentioned this in relation to another question about the dancing roadie - Wayne - but you must have missed it.

July 29, 2010 - submitted by Daniel, United States of America

Q. Do you know how couples' have a song that describes their relationship or show their love for each other? Well me and my girlfriend's song was Yellow. She never liked Coldplay until she met me. And after awhile we decided to break up and I still love the song but found it difficult to play it because my all of my friends know what the song meant to my relationship with her. I want to dedicate it to my new girlfriend but I feel like it would make things worse with my ex if she heard I did that. What should I do?

The Oracle replies:

Dude it's not cool to use the same song for different chicks! Never mind if your ex found out you should pick a new one for your current squeeze...

July 28, 2010 - submitted by Alina, Canada

Q. Dear Oracle, Knowing that Will celebrated his last two birthdays in Toronto, do you think he's gonna try and keep up that little "tradition" and come back there again this year? Cheers

The Oracle replies:

It's not really been a tradition but more of a coincidence through touring. As you know they aren't currently on tour so there's no reason to be in Toronto (other than one of tradition if it were so). As far as I know Will travels back to the UK in time for his birthday so is probably spending it at home with the family.

July 28, 2010 - submitted by Kenzie, United States of America

Q. Dearest Oracle, Have you seen the movie Inception yet? If not you must because it is absolutely genius! Anyways, do you think the top was going strong or do you think it was going to fall? I've been pondering on this for days and need your opinion! Thanks :-) Kenzie

The Oracle replies:

Yes I have seen it and without wanting to give anything away to those who haven't I shall say this... One of the best films I have seen in a while worthy of all the hype. In answer to your question I knew we wouldn't see but for what it's worth I think it would have fallen. p.s I also don't think they fulfilled their task in case anyone asks that!

July 28, 2010 - submitted by Brandon, United States of America

Q. Excuse me oh wise Oracle, I was reading through Roadie and in the Introduction he says "Bung in a few 'A' list celebrities, an ocean of Beck's lager and enough air miles to bankrupt Branson" does Matt actually mean the city of Branson, Missouri or is there another Branson I'm unaware of?

The Oracle replies:

Matt wasn't referring to that Branson, but this Branson.

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Both AOL Radio Blog and Coldplay's official site are reporting this week that Coldplay and Lele, the singer from top Cuban band Los Van Van, collaborate on 'Clocks / Relojes,' a Cuban version of Coldplay's Top 10 hit 'Clocks,' highlighted on the Afro-Cuban relief effort album, 'Revival.'

The track is dominated by a more uplifting, Cuban mix full of conga and batá drums, trumpets and poppy piano, while Lele and Chris Martin's vocals interchange, as well as the hypnotic 'Clocks' piano melody with the new, revised one.

The album, 'Revival,' is currently available on iTunes, with all proceeds going to Artists Planet Earth. To hear the Cuban remix of 'Clocks,' head over to AOL Radio's Adult Rock station. If you're in the UK, Amazon have the CD here and the download here.

Back in 2006, a Cuban-styled version of Clocks featured on the Rhythms Del Mundo album, released by Artists Project Earth (APE), a UK organisation which focuses on disaster relief and climate change awareness.

The album, 'Revival,' was conceptualized by Rhythms Del Mundo (RDM) and their partnership with NGO Artists Project Earth (APE), to offer Afro-Cuban remixes of popular songs, while supporting relief efforts in Haiti, Chile, and Tibet. Other highlights on the album include Bob Dylan's 'A Hard Rain's a Gonna Fall,' Franz Ferdinand's 'The Dark of the Matinee,' and KT Tunstall's cover of Queen's hit 'Somebody to Love,' among others.

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July 27, 2010 - submitted by Maggie, United States of America

Q. Where is Roadie #42 and why on Earth hasn't he had an update for us in over a month?

The Oracle replies:

He's been keeping himself busy in London while the band have been in New York. I'm sure he'll be filling you all in with something very soon but August may be quite a quiet time so don't expect many frequent blogs just yet.

July 27, 2010 - submitted by Eliza, United Kingdom

Q. Do you believe that Marmite is a delicious condiment on rye crackers?

The Oracle replies:

No, I don't believe Marmite is delicious in any way, shape or form on ANY food item! Ugh!

July 27, 2010 - submitted by Sara, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, I just now found a video of Chris jumping straight into the crowd at the Coachella Festival and was wondering if there were any still shot pictures of it. Because it's amazing. Thanks much, Sara

The Oracle replies:

I was there and took a photo on my disposable camera as my best camera was in the dressing room. Well, how was I to know Chris would provide a Kodak moment of the century? Unfortunately the picture I ended up with was appalling. However I was stood next to a chap John who took a pretty good shot of it so I shall try and hunt that down - but he's very busy just now! FYI: Chris didn't strictly jump into the crowd; there was a long corridor like gap separating the audience which he sprinted up... I remember they were all grabbing at him as he ran by.

July 26, 2010 - submitted by Colin, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, Was Chris, The Man in high school? Was he popular and have a lot of girlfriends?

The Oracle replies:

No, he actually wasn't. Chris is the first to admit that he wasn't the coolest at school and he wasn't the guy that got the chicks as they say.

July 26, 2010 - submitted by Aaron, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, Why does Will look like he's about to knife someone in almost every band photo? Aaron

The Oracle replies:

I laughed out loud at this question! There are photos of Will staring and so I can see your point but to be honest, there was a phase of him blinking as the picture was being taken so he tends to over compensate for that. There are some great photos of Will where he's not doing the stare but either way he's such a lovely person and has great presence but I can assure you he's not the least bit scary.

July 23, 2010 - submitted by Jeff, United States of America

Q. Will you please tell me where is Phil Harvey(the mysterious 5th member) is in the Life in Technicolor ii music video. He holds a video camera is a clue you have given to us but there are 3 people holding cameras.

The Oracle replies:

July 23, 2010 - submitted by Roberto, Italy

Q. Hi Oracle, I was watching on You Tube some Coldplay's concerts and then I found this video Is this a promo video or what? Because the Chris Martin's part is original! I would like you answer me to uncover the truth! Thanks a lot, greetings from Italy.

The Oracle replies:

It is not an official promo video. There has never been a

July 22, 2010 - submitted by Flor, Argentina

Q. Dear Oracle: Who are or what represent the two people sat in the stairs behind Coldplay in the video In My Place? Flor

The Oracle replies:

The people in the video are Faith Holmes - who used to be the video commissioner at EMI - and the makeup artist/wardrobe assistant. They were actually asked by director Sophie Muller to stay where they were to show the expanse of the room.

July 22, 2010 - submitted by Jimbob, United Kingdom

Q. Oracle, help, I need your wise words. I am in love with a guy who has a girlfriend (I call her the troll). Anyway, he tells me that he's going to dump her but I just don't see it happening. What should I do?

The Oracle replies:

Well the only thing you can do is consider yourself. If this guy is in a heterosexual relationship and hasn't come out, he may never. There's no guarantee that he will dump the girlfriend and even if/when he does, he still may not feel ready to commit to you no matter what he's been telling you. If you are prepared to wait for an undisclosed amount of time, I'm afraid to say it could be waiting in vain.

It's up to you to whether you wait but in the meantime don't make it easy for him by being available as and when he wishes. As much as you think you may be able to see clearly what he should do, it's his decision. Personally I would suggest you get on with your own thing. If he has feelings, seeing you happy and living your life might spur him on to something about his own. Maybe one day you will be together but don't waste precious time waiting on empty gestures.

July 22, 2010 - submitted by Colm, Canada

Q. Hello Oracle, I've heard very little about this Coldplay single release and I have actually been looking high and low for it. It's finally here, but what is the background on it? Is it really that rare? Thank you so much!

The Oracle replies:

It's not a limited edition per se but it was only available in certain regions. It's therefore rare as it wasn't universally released so there are only a certain number of copies out there.

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The rapper and producer Swizz Beatz, who is engaged to and expecting a child with Alicia Keys, announced this week that he is producing material with Coldplay.

It has not yet been confirmed whether the song(s) will make the cut for Coldplay's LP5, but Swizz Beatz has previously worked with Coldplay three years ago on a mix called Part of the Plan so this is not the first time the two artists have combined together. More discussion on this at the Coldplay forum here [thanks mimixxx & coldplayisawesome]

Discussing his projects, Swizz Beats was quoted by Digital Spy as saying: "I'm working on my album which is super incredible. Got everybody on there from Jay-Z to John Legend to Mary [J. Blige] to Drake. Super amazing album", he told OK. "I'm also working on Lenny Kravitz's new album, working with Coldplay. When you're in album mode and you're in producing mode, working with any great artist you have fun and try to create the best music you can create."

Swizz Beatz confirmed that Jay-Z, Alicia Keys and Drake will all appear on his own upcoming solo album. He added: "On one song [Alicia] just played keys on. I don't know [which], cause I don't know which one I'm going to use. I have a few songs. I'm probably going to drop my single with Mary before the summer is over. I'm shooting for that and I'm looking for Fall to be Swizz Beatz mania."

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July 21, 2010 - submitted by Zach, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle! I was listening to the album Parachutes yesterday and realized that the songs seem to go in an order that just... fits. And it's the same for almost every other musical album. So, my question is, during some point of production, do either the band or a highly trained group of putting-music-into-order people select which order the songs go in? Or is it all just done chronologically? I wouldn't think it's chronological, because if memory serves, Yellow was the last song to be written for Parachutes...maybe? Anyway, thanks in advance!

The Oracle replies:

It's not based on when songs were chronologically written. Choosing the song order on an album can sometimes be a very stressful decision making time; it's very important to get it right. You need the album's opener to really set the tone of the record and there needs to be a conclusion. It's amazing how weird albums can sound if the order isn't right. Let me share an example... Back in 2004 Youth Group released their album Skeleton Jar on an independent label in Australia called Ivy League Records. A while later the band got signed to Epitaph/ANTI in the States and label boss Brett Gurewitz completely changed its running order before they re-released it. If you listen to that version of the album it sounds so much better. Usually it's band, management and label that will have some input as well as the producer.

July 21, 2010 - submitted by Laure, France

Q. Do the band recognize some fans who come to all of their shows? Like me in Paris since 2005. I'm all the time in front of Guy 1st or 2nd row.

The Oracle replies:

Absolutely! It's amazing how many faces you get to recognize time after time from seeing them on the front row. Last year there was a number one fan who sadly died in a tragic accident. Her name was Jennifer but we knew her as Nettie as did so many bands and artists. It's just over a year ago now but she's not forgotten but missed from that front row...

July 21, 2010 - submitted by Abbey, United States of America

Q. Greetings from Cali Oracle!! I was just wondering if any of the boys in the band are fans of Kings Of Leon... Yes? No? What about you?? I recommend you check them out live if you haven't already..

The Oracle replies:

Yes, I've mentioned before that Chris is a fan though he took longer to catch on than myself. I saw them in May 2003 in a 200 capacity venue and have seen them around 6 other times since but I have to confess the sight of everyone going crazy in an arena to Sex Is On Fire in 2008 was the last time I saw them; I felt I had lost that special feeling I got from all the earlier smaller places. Plus the first 3 albums were better than the fourth for me. Let's see what the fifth holds...

July 20, 2010 - submitted by Indraja, United States of America

Q. If the members of Coldplay were sorted into the houses at Hogwarts (from the Harry Potter series), which house would each member be in?

The Oracle replies:

I'm going to put them each into separate houses: Chris in Hufflepuff, Will in Gryffindor, Jonny in Ravenclaw and Guy in Slytherin. You can sort yourself if you like...

July 20, 2010 - submitted by Eddie, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, I need your help. I have a friend (who is a girl) and I like her and I told her so. A couple weeks later she finally told me that she doesn't feel the same way about me. I'm pretty upset now, but should I get over her and embrace our friendship? Or should I keep on trying to win her heart? Please help me oracle!

The Oracle replies:

I think you did the right thing by telling her even though you are rightly upset right now but it's not as easy as just deciding to get over her. That may take a while but in the meantime try and stay the same as you always have with her so the friendship doesn't become awkward now that she does know. Don't try to win her heart; if that's going to happen it just will. You never know in time her feelings may change but don't hold onto that thought just - as you say - embrace your friendship.

July 19, 2010 - submitted by Lucas, Brazil

Q. Is it possible to find all the singles on sale? I'd like to have them, but I can't find them here in Brazil. What about you (Coldplay) release a collection with the singles from each album? In the case of Parachutes, for example, you release a box including the singles Yellow, Trouble...

The Oracle replies:

You should be able to find most/all the band's singles online if not the physical cd/vinyl etc. There was an official target="_blank">box set of singles released but there's no further plans to do anything similar. No offence but it doesn't make sense to me to release singles per album as one collection... Greatest Hits are a great way to get all singles of one artist on one release but as you know, there isn't a Coldplay one.

July 19, 2010 - submitted by Will, United States of America

Q. Hi Oracle I have question I hope you will answer. The girl of my dreams left me the other day and she is the one who brought Coldplay into my life we even went to their show in Hartford ct. Last year (which may Iadd was the greatest night of my life) and everytime I listen to Coldplay I feel so many emotions and I have to stop. Will I ever be able to listen to one of my favorite bands like I used to?

The Oracle replies:

Honestly? Yes. It may take some time and it may hurt like hell when you do hear them but it might actually help with your healing process. If not, take a break from certain songs and come back to them later when you feel stronger. It's ok to feel sad at a time like this but don't listen to them if it becomes a self-torture. Some time in the future you will be able to smile about the memories those songs hold for you even if a tinge of sadness remains you will move on with your life I promise you.

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Former frontman for The Verve, Richard Ashcroft has been talking in an interview to The National today about Chris Martin and Coldplay in general, ahead of his most ambitious musical reinvention yet, RPA & the United Nations of Sound. Below is what they said in the online article... [thanks mimixxx]

A more unlikely celebrity friend, perhaps, is Coldplay’s Chris Martin, who introduced Ashcroft as "the best singer in the world" when they performed The Verve’s Bitter Sweet Symphony together at the Live8 mega-show in London five summers ago.

Ashcroft has also toured with Coldplay, and does not share the disdain that some rockers show towards Martin’s wholesome, family-friendly image. "His drive is immense," the singer says. "If Chris was an athlete he’d be a gold-medal winner, seriously. People underestimate him. As a songsmith, he’s a great writer of songs that people want to stand and sing back to him. All I can say is I’ve toured with the guys, and all of them individually have been really nice towards me, my wife, my family, my kids. I can only go on a human level. I think they are a much less homogenised thing than a lot of bands."

Meanwhile, Glastonbury organisers Michael and Emily Eavis have been speaking in a video interview to NME about Coldplay's headlining slot in 2002 and how important the band are to the festival. Links to the the Coldplay-related videos along with a descrption are below...

1) Michael Eavis reveals how The Strokes pulled out of the Pilton Party village fundraiser, which led to Coldplay's Chris Martin stepping in and subsequently headlining the fest. Plus Emily on the time Neil Young stopped his bus to photograph the site... here

2) The festival organisers try to decide on their favourite headline act from after the millenium, and narrow it down to Coldplay, David Bowie and Jay-Z... here

New photo of Jonny Buckland in Electric Lady studios in New York City (7th July 2010)

Jonny Buckland with brand new E-1 Moog guitar delivered to them at Electric Lady studios, NYC... [thanks mimixxx & vanessa]

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July 16, 2010 - submitted by Washington luiz, Brazil

Q. Hi,dear Oracle. I was asking myself a few days ago if this song is really from Coldplay called "Bucket For A Crown" Could you talk about this song? here this a link : v=mVpuLelhM8U Thank you and forgive me for my bad English. I'm still learning. Good bye

The Oracle replies:

Chris performed solo in 2006 at Union Chapel in Islington as part of Mencap's Little Noise Sessions. This song aired then but as you'll know it hasn't ever been officially released. There was no announcement saying it would be or anything but this is another example of a song that was written between recording sessions that didn't make it on to an album.

July 16, 2010 - submitted by Josef, United Arab Emirates

Q. Hello Oracle. The other day I was asked a question by a fiend of mine about whom I fancied. I like this friend so decided to be honest with her and told her that I fancied her,and her best friend, and another of her friends. She seems to hate me now! I do not feel I have done wrong as i was telling the truth, but I was hoping if the wise Oracle could pass judgement on this issue. Also as I was told by some friends that I had done wrong, I apologised and she now seems to hate me even more. What can I do wise Oracle? She seems to hate me so much more now that I apologised. Please help me as I'm at my wits end with what to do. Thanks, Josef

The Oracle replies:

Maybe she's just put out that you didn't say just one name; hers! Sounds like your friend has some feelings for you Josef otherwise I have no ideas why she would act in this way.

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July 15, 2010 - submitted by Nicole, United States of America

Q. ORACLE. PLEASE HELP ME. This really bothers me every time I look watch my videos on my ipod. I have had the Roadie #42 blog #82 video on there since it came out. Every time I re-watch it, it bothers me because I love the Strawberry Swing remix that I hear during the video, and I can't listen to it afterwards, because I haven't found that remix. I was wondering if the boys plan to release this mysterious remix that nobody seems to know anything about? I know that I would not only appreciate it, but my other coldplayers would too. ps. We all think that it might be a Thin White Duke remix, because the Talk and VLV remixes are great. Thank you so much, I really wish it could be put up on the coldplay website to be downloaded like LRLRL. It seriously would be a great little hold over for us while the boys are busy in the beehive! :) Send my love to everyone, can't wait to see them on the next tour! -Nicole

The Oracle replies:

It's not a Thin White Duke mix; Roadie #42 himself is actually the talented remixer of that version;. There is no planned release so I'm sorry we only have the clip courtesy of his blog.

July 15, 2010 - submitted by Luise, Germany

Q. Dear Oracle, can you please help me? I have an oral exam next week, which is very important for my course of studies. My problem is: I have this almost sick feeling before the exam and then I forget everything. Is there a way to feel not that nervous? best regards, Luise

The Oracle replies:

Try relaxation cds, meditation, new breathing techniques and maybe a few drops of Rescue Remedy. Above all, don't panic; it's a very normal reaction so try to stay calm and use positive thinking. Remind yourself that you did the work and revision; you DO know the information so there's nothing to worry about if you take your time. Don't feel you have to rush any answers. If you make any mistakes just stop, apologise and start again. If it's a foreign language exam it may be worth making the apology in that language!

July 14, 2010 - submitted by Angel, Spain

Q. Dear Oracle, What does Chris Martin say in "Everything's Not Lost" performance on Live 2003 DVD from 5:45 to 6:03, I've been looking for it but I haven't found anything. Here is the

The Oracle replies:

This isn't exactly verbatim but pretty much spot on: "So if you're sat down or even if you're right at the back this would be the great point for you to start singing with us because we're not gonna be in this neck of the woods for quite a while so you may as well sing as loud as you can now. Ready?"

July 14, 2010 - submitted by Shia, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, I'm really desperate for some good anonymous advice. How do you tell someone that everything that you're doing to make them happy is making you miserable? And that despite loving them with all your heart living their dreams is killing you. This person has sacrificed so much for me. Is is selfish to think the way I am? And say I stop living my life the way I am to make them happy...what if I don't know what I actually want to do with my life? How am I supposed to say all that with out breaking their heart and ruining our relationship? I know this must be ridiculously confusing but I hope you have something to say xoxo

The Oracle replies:

I am a believer in sometimes having to give some things up to make a relationship work but while some folk are happy to do any and everything for their partner without compromise, I am not. There are many couples who play very different roles that are compatible and it works but that should be a mutual agreement even if unspoken. What you ask is actually not all that confusing as I can totally understand where you're coming from without having every little detail; the difficulty is finding the right thing to do and by that I mean the right thing for you. Relationships can be hard work because to make it work there either has to be a lot of compromise or as in your case, sacrifice. What you have to do is think long and hard about what it is YOU want from life - all aspects of it. When you have an idea of that consider what you'd have to do to get it. It may be that although you love this person, staying with them is holding you back. Ask yourself how you'd feel if in twenty years your partner has all that they desire and you haven't. Might you feel resentful? Don't leave it too late as you may miss so many opportunities. I suggest you try and work out how you can balance your life so that all the pieces fit together but without you having to lose sight of the fact that although there are two people in a relationship, it's essentially your life that you're living and to feel fulfilled in your personal life it sounds like you need to take back something for yourself. Write down how you feel and if you can, talk to your other half. You mention they have made sacrifices for you so bear that in mind and see how you can return that gesture without it being all about them. Selfish is a very strange state of being; for all intents and purposes if you're not selfish then the person you are all giving to surely is if they take incessantly? I like to think that selfish is only applicable if everything you do is with total disregard for anyone else's feelings so no, I do not think you are selfish. In any heavy discussion I find the following thought keeps things nice and balanced... ask the other person to try and see it through your eyes and imagine themselves in your shoes. People can't always offer empathy of course but it usually stops the other person from throwing accusations and helps them to understand. I honestly wish you luck but rise to the challenge and remember, try and balance it all as there's not really any reason you both can't have it all!

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July 13, 2010 - submitted by Hope, United States of America

Q. Would Coldplay ever do a song with Beyonce?

The Oracle replies:

Chris & Beyonce performed her track Halo together at the Hope For Haiti show. It is quite an emotional rendition of the song I have to say. Other than that it's not likely that the band will do a song with her. Historically they haven't really done a song as a collective for another artist.

July 13, 2010 - submitted by Anna, Sweden

Q. Dear Oracle, I have a question. Where do the tube trains go when they reach their final destination? Do they turn somewhere and go the other way or do they just go to some sort of garage? This really puzzled me and my friend today. All the best!

The Oracle replies:

Some stay at the end of their line and others go to their depot. As a side note: As you're probably aware; tube trains cannot turn around. Trains don't generally need to be rotated to make their return journeys there are "points" which adjust the track to avoid collisions etc. Most of the tube trains just reverse their route as they are simply equipped so that the front of the train becomes the back and vice versa. The Circle Line is cicular (obviously) so that operates differently...

July 12, 2010 - submitted by Zach, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, How does a band determine what song becomes a single?

The Oracle replies:

It's fairly obvious to those involved which tracks are going to be singles. The hardest decision is usually which one to choose as the first. Sometimes there may be more than two or three obvious choices but between the artist, manager, record label and close confidants discussions are had based on various factors including potential radio songs and/or hits. It's quite unusual for the more obscure or darker tracks to be chosen. In particular singles are known to be marketing tools to sell albums and so the decision isn't taken lightly.

July 12, 2010 - submitted by Ellie, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, What deodorant do you use?

The Oracle replies:

Mitchum because I love their marketing slogan: "So effective you can skip a day" not that I would of course...

July 12, 2010 - submitted by Jennifer, Canada

Q. Dear Oracle, who makes the selections for The Exhibition Room? Is it random process or do the band members get to vote?

The Oracle replies:

There is a curator of the Exhibition Room who selects each one but I am assured that it is "most certainly not a random process". They would say that because this definitely isn't random! Looking at the amazing exhibits I'd say their task is far easier. Most certainly in your face Curator.

July 12, 2010 - submitted by Anthony, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, Can you please tell me where I can find a video of Coldplay playing High Speed at the HMV at London's Oxford Street (otherwise known as their one hundredth show)? I know you have posted a recording on your website, but I have checked YouTube and cannot find a video of it. I would absolutely love to see them playing that song live! Thanks for all of your help! Sincerely, Anthony.

The Oracle replies:

It seems there is a void where a video could be. We ourselves struggled to find footage of that gig and it has proven to be elusive. Xfm Radio recorded and broadcast the show but obviously that was only audio - as you heard. Then... along came Craig from here in the UK with

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Over the weekend, Coldplay's debut album, Parachutes, celebrated the 10th anniversary since its release way back on 10th July 2000.

You can look back at our countdown to the 10 year anniversary of Parachutes at the Coldplay forum - includes Ken Nelson's interview and some video interviews. Recently added are superb video performances from Netherlands and Australia, with 2 Meter Sessies and the Big Day Out festival respectively. As part of Coldplaying's memoirs of the first album era, we also look back on a special interview of the band, courtesy of NME, at a time when the music magazine used to like Coldplay, of course...

Chris Martin stumbles into the pub in King's Cross, leans on the door for support and squints into the beer garden. His eyes are bloodshot saucers and he runs a nail-bitten, dirt-stained hand across his three-day old stubble. He spots NME and approaches. "Sorry I'm late," he slurs, the stench of alcohol on his breath forcing us to wince. "Haven't slept since Glasgow. Fuck knows when that was. But you know how it is on tour, eh? Lots of distractions, know what I mean?" And with that he sit down, fishes in his pocket for a half-smoked spliff and promptly sparks up. One minute later, he's fast asleep.

Thought you knew Coldplay then, did you? Had them marked down as the indie Westlife. Travis junior. Nice chaps with nice songs. Well-spoken young men with a past so wholesomely squeaky clean it would have Enid Blyton reaching for the crack pipe. That's the power of media representation. And although the band's singer and chief songwriter Chris Martin didn't really introduce himself in such a positively insalubrious fashion (that was a horrid joke; he bounds in beaming, looking sickeningly healthy), the fact is that while the Coldplay record might be hithero untarnished, it's nevertheless a record that needs to be set straight.

"Apparently," sighs drummer Will Champion, cradling an orange juice and lemonade in the concrete surrounds of the Lucas Arms' beer garden on the hottest day of the year, "we're all teetotalists from Oxford who don't drink or don't smoke and we're doing our Oxford finals."

He picks out a Marlboro Light and joins guitarist Jon Buckland and Guy Berryman in the joys of nicotine addiction. "Interviews always focus on the backgrounds," he adds, "and that's quite annoying because then you start having to validate where you come from."

"In an ideal world there would be no need for this," agrees Chris. "Our problem is we have that posture: it's far more rock'n'roll for us to be honest and, you know, we haven't had a particularly rock'n'roll upbringing. It's just hard to validate why we're here, and I hate that. It's much better that we're honest about it," says Will. "There's nothing worse than people pretending to be something they aren't. You've got to be true to what you are. Shouldn't have to feel guilty about where you come from."

"The problem," Chris considers, "is you mention the word 'university' and you're just screwed. Well, not screwed, I mean, we'll transcend it. Our dilemma is that we'll always be honest about a question, but we know that can be the noose around our necks."

Of course, these things shouldn't matter, and to a large extent they don't. But as Coldplay's rapid ascent into the nation's heart continutes apace - first 'Shiver' pierced the Top 40 in Feburary, curent single 'Yellow' is set to do far better, while their forthcoming debut album 'Parachutes', is a thing of considerable, peerless beauty - so their tolerance of media intrusion subsides. It's not that the group are bored after just under a year of constant attention, rather they can't fully comprehend why people would be so interested in them as individuals when the music they make, to them, says everything anyone could possibly want to know. "The only thing that gets in the way with us is the bollocks that goes along with the record," Chris will say, chirpily; himself one of the most endearing and amusing and classically charismatic frontmen we've encountered for some time, and therefore a subject ripe for investigation. And is this is the bollocks, Chris Martin is quite a tease.

Coldplay could not have wished for a more fruitful seven months. If last October's 'The Blue Room EP', their first single since signing to Parlophone in April 1999, hinted at the band's potential for stadium-destined greatness with a wholly civilised and occasionally dramatic take on the Radiohead/Jeff Buckley melancholic acoustic method of mass seduction, then with 'Parachutes' 11 assured songs we find that potential almost fully realised and a distinctive Coldplay sound developing.

Recorded between tours "in spits and spats between September and April" at Rockfield Studios in Wales, Par Street in Liverpool and Highbury, North London, and produced by Ken Nelson (of Gomez and Badly Drawn Boy fame), 'Parachutes' is an album shot through with the band's infectious optimism and keen ear for melody.

"I can't believe we finished it," Chris says, at least twice. "It was hard work," confirms Will.

"Well, not hard work like being a miner," the singer says. "But in terms of music it was the hardest thing we've ever had to do, and in terms of friendship and our commitment. It was more a case of frustration. Some of the album's really good. But we're ready to move on. The most important thing is that every song, we've really got a feeling into it. And that's the first priority. I'm happy we've got as much feeling into it as possible. Obviously music-wise or song-wise or tempo-wise, you're never gonna be happy with it."

And if you thought the searing speldour of 'Yellow' was Coldplay's finest track to date, wait 'til you hear the unarguably beautiful likes of 'Don't Panic' and 'Trouble.' Of course, if you've seen Coldplay's astonishing live shows, you already know what we're talking about. But, what about parachutes? Well, they're famously useful objects...

"They get you out of a bad situation," says Chris. "So some of our songs you jump out of a plane and everything looks bleak, you know, and then you pull the parachute and you enjoy it: 'Aahhh, it's not so bad.' But that is bollocks. It's called 'Parachutes' because we had to decide a title. But it works, it fits. Often the things that fit best are things that have to be decided very quickly, or a bit of an accident. A good analogy is when you've got to rush out of the house and get something to wear, you often pick up the first thing that looks any good and it sticks."

This year, Coldplay haven't had much time to think about anything. Tonight they play the final gig - and their biggest headlining show - of their fourth UK tour this year at King's Cross Scala in front of a typically cynical 800-strong London crowd who will leave the venue grinning like Cheshire cats, heads spinning. They touring began in January with a stint on the NME Premier Tour alongside Shack, Campag Velocet and Les Rythmes Digitales. They then paired up with bright new hopes, Terris and in May, supported Muse. But it's with their own string of shows that everything's finally started to slot into place.

"We're made up! This is the first tour we're not losing money on. Apart from the first show, they've been sold out, sold out, sold out, sold out! Wicked!" Chris gushes. "Can't believe it! You know, we got to Manchester yesterday and the student union was dead 'cos no-one was there but it was sold out! Wicked! It's very exciting you know."

Chris Martin, 23, doesn't drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes or take drugs. He's pretty unusual. The others? Sure, they like a drink and chug away merrily on Marlboro Lights, but as a band they're completely anti-cocaine. Chris, too, has a Christian-like zeal about him, as if he's very much enamoured by life and it's myriad opportunites. Tall, eminently engaging and blessed with a dry sense of humour (he slips into a faltering Harry Hill voice when describing sticky situations; his Alan Partridge is fast becoming legendary), Chris was raised in a small Devon village called Whitestone, halfway between Exeter and Okehampton. His mother's a teacher, father a chartered accountant. His teenage years were spent at public school in Dorset (he won't say which one "it's honest enough to say I went to public school") but four years in London, at University College where he read Ancient History have shaved the aitches from his regionless accent. Chris loves cricket, swimming and "running around in general." Come to think of it, Chris loves everything. Enquire about the Velcro support on his right wrist and he'll say "It's just for the show. I'm trying to be like Jonny Greenwood."

It was at UCL that he met Will, Jon and Guy. They all lived together in Ramsey Hall, all played instruments and met "just through the standard inane way you meet people in halls." In their case, that involved such wholesome activities such as siting in stairwells playing Simon & Garfunkel songs and "obscure Irish folk stuff that Will knows." But that was OK because it was the reason the four came to London in the first place; Will from Southampton, Jon from North Wales and Guy from Canterbury. They all had "real Dick Whittington-type ambitions", according to Chris: "Go to London, make your fortune. Well, sort of. And when you go to college you've got a clean slate, no-one knows who you are and you've kind of decided pretty much who you want to be." The four bonded over a love of "music that's quite soulful and emotive. Real. Timeless"; bands like The Flaming Lips, Radiohead, The Verve and Mercury Rev. "In a way," says Will, "we've all been influenced by everything we've ever heard."

Two years ago, they self-financed their debut single, the "Safety EP" and last summer released a single, "Brothers & Sisters" for Fierce Panda. A bidding war ensued, with Parlophone the victors. Sensibly the lads knuckled down and completed their finals. And now? Well now they're seen by some as educated middle-class white boys with nothing to say. Which isn't far from the truth. "I hate talking about this. It just doesn't read well, does it?" says Chris sipping his OJ and lemonade. "We met when I was busking. Jon came up and he was another busker."

"There was a brlliant advert pinned up the other day," he says, steering the conversation elsewhere. "It said, 'Acoustic guitar, good condition, one string broken, £25.' Hahaha!"

So Chris, are you religious?

"No."

You seem to have a humanist outlook on life. An unfailing optimism which manifests itself in songs like 'Everything's Not Lost' and 'Life Is For Living'.

"Yeah, but we all do. None of us are hunters. I eat meat just like anyone else. Kill those cows. I mean, I just...dunno. I just don't drink. I hate it."

(Later on, NME tells Chris that an anagram of Chris Martin is Mr. Christian. He looks at us with pity.)

Have you ever been drunk?

"Yeah a couple of times. Had a really bad week in our band last year and largely it was my fault - well it was my fault - there was a lack of communication. And to mark the end of this bad, bad week, the worst week ever, I decided I'd get hammered just to make myself more miserable. It was Guy, Guy was feeding me. I don't know what it was, all I remember is playing harmonica on the street trying to eat his chips and the just sleeping on the bathroom floor with all this weird red stuff. What was that red stuff? Vodka and cranberry...?"

"Ribena" says Guy,

"...and then just feeling really not great and trying to sleep in Will's room 'cos he wasn't there. And it was freezing cold."

"I know it's not normal to drink, but I just don't wanna do it. Why should I have to? Some of our best songs have come out of going home while everyone else is out, just being miserable. But not really. Y'know I have a great time! I mean, it's not like I got, 'Oh I'm not drinking this evening, I'm just gonna read my book.' I have a brilliant time. I see girls just like everyone else."

Ask Coldplay if they think it odd that people should listen to what they have to say, that people might even expect them to have something to say, and you're greeted with a long pause. Lorries roar past. Mobile phones ring. "Away from the music?" asks Chris. "Yeah, yeah. 'Cos there are people with far better things to say. We're not orators. It's interesting. We all enjoy reading about people we like musically. But we're only young (the others are 22). We've got a lot to see and a lot to learn. Reading an interview with Tom Waits now, 30 years into the music and the things he's done, that's fascinating. Reading about another new band, it's gotta be done, it's not as interesting. In 20 years it'll be really interesting to talk to us. Come back then."

"We've got a long way to go. Haven't even started yet. It's weird because there's not that much to say about us, that's why I worry because we're extremely nice blokes and extremely interesting when you get to talk to us properly but, you know, I would be fed up to the back teeth of reading, 'Oh they met here, are they the new Radiohead?' Yawn, yawn, yawn, can I got to sleep now please? I find it boring reading about us. But I don't find it boring listening to us or watching us or getting involved with us."

As if on cue, a white van pulls up outside. 'Yellow' blares from the stereo.

Chris shakes his head smiling. "Listen to the vocals - too quiet. That's our philosopy: never happy, always aiming for more." Later that day, during the show, it's transparantly obvious that Coldplay are far, far more that this year's next big thing. Even before they've taken to the stage, screams and cheers ring out in fevered anticipation. And when they finally arrive, strumming into 'Spies', they're greeted with the kind of rapturous applause traditionally reserved for bands with years more experience and material. On top of a speaker stack, stage right, is Coldplay's illuminated globe of the world. It travels everywhere with them and appears on the cover of 'Parachutes'.

"It's our thing," said Chris earlier, by way of explaination.

And as a modest symbol of the band's ambition, it couldn't be more apt.

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More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1400 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

July 9, 2010 - submitted by Kerstin, Sweden

Q. Dear all knowing Oracle! What is a hidden track? Yours sincerely, Kerstin

The Oracle replies:

All it means is that there's a song that isn't listen in the tracklisting of the album but rather is 'hidden'. Usually they appear at the end of the album mostly after a significant amount of time has passed so if you're listening to a CD you will miss it if you stop it before letting it run. Some are randomly scattered through the record. However there are plenty of clever clogs who have their hidden song before track 1 which is of course a little trickier to detect. In the case of 2 Many DJ's As Heard On Radio Soulwax pt.2 the album sleeve lists tracks starting at -04.15 but does not mention the title of that first hidden song which is a remix of Kylie's Can't Get You Out Of My Head.

July 9, 2010 - submitted by Lauren, United States of America

Q. Hey Oracle, So I a few years back I had a vacation in Italy. My family and I were surprised to find out that you have to pay to use the public toilets. We're used to them being free, and think it's better that way. How many other European countries make you pay to use a public toilet?

The Oracle replies:

The phrase spend a penny seems a bit redundant here in the UK too as it will actually cost you 30p to go to the public loo in Euston Station for example. Yes, we do have to pay to use the conveniences in most public toilets. There are some free ones left in parks and so on but they're locked at night. It's a sign of the times and apart from them making money it's also a response to the growing drug use in lavatories.

July 8, 2010 - submitted by Emily, United States of America

Q. Oracle, What is the stupidest question you have ever received? Emily

The Oracle replies:

Well Emily, I'm not one to judge intelligence but as requested I have been asked some very bizarre and strange things. I wouldn't call anyone stupid; many people fell for our April Fool's jokes but that's a charming naivety. However the question I got asked right before yours was worthy of a mention in the realms of weird... Lexus asked: "If the world was invaded by aliens lets say tomorrow or next week. Would the aliens decide to cut out all sources of oxygen, drain blood from every human on the planet and then rule our planet, OR would they force the members of Coldplay to drink a pint of blood each, then take DNA samples from them? If so why? I hope this isn't too weird for you." Er, quite frankly Lexus, yes it is!

July 8, 2010 - submitted by Nina, United States of America

Q. Hey, Oracle. Which member of Coldplay has the most annoying laugh? I ask this because I'm currently in my school library, and the two women in charge have laughs that I'm pretty sure are the most annoying on this planet. Thank you!

The Oracle replies:

Hahahahaha! This made me laugh, though hopefully not annoyingly! I can honestly say that all 4 members have really great sounding laughs; not remotely irritating. Your question has made me think... surely there can't be such a thing as a bad laugh? I do know what you mean but in life a laugh definitely sounds better than a cry no matter how irritating.

July 8, 2010 - submitted by Stasia, United States of America

Q. Oh Oracle.. I have tickets for Lollapalooza in Chicago. The festival is quickly approaching, and two of the bands I want to see are playing at the same time on different stages! Do you think I should try to split my time between the two sets, or just force myself to choose one? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

Just draw up two columns for each band and under their name write reasons for choosing them: Do they often tour (my neighbourhood)? Could this be their last tour for a while? If I discovered they were splitting up, who would I be most upset to have missed? And so on... Failing that just watch both and presume their first or second song to be their current tune and their last their biggest hit and aim to see your favourite last song, er, last! That might not work out but hey, it's a plan! FYI: I once chose Stone Roses at Reading over Underworld but it was sadly rubbish so just made it to the Dance Tent in time for

July 8, 2010 - submitted by Sababa, Bangladesh

Q. Dear Oracle, I have two questions 1)I was wondering... Are you brother of the German octopus, Paul who predicts result of a game and knows everything? 2) Someone thinks Phil is a dog, if you're an octopus then what is Coldplay...starfish? Love, Sababa

The Oracle replies:

Tania from Mexico also wrote about Paul and commented that she thinks all the Germans want to eat him! I am not an octopus (although born in October) therefore no relation; he is fantastic though isn't he? Only one wrong prediction. As I am sure you already know, Phil is not a dog, I am not an octopus but Coldplay were once a Starfish!

July 7, 2010 - submitted by Felipe, Brazil

Q. What agency/person will be in charge of elaborating the album art? Will it maintain Viva la Vida's art style?

The Oracle replies:

If you look back historically at each album's cover you'll see there's no continuity between them. Each album is a piece of work in its own right and so the inimitable music and its creators are the only common link. The next album will therefore be no different by having its own unique style.

July 7, 2010 - submitted by Pocoyo, France

Q. Dear Oracle, For you, what is the best foreign language to say I love you ? Thank You =)

The Oracle replies:

Je t'aime... foreign to me (as you asked) but not to you! I think anything sounds great in French though.

July 7, 2010 - submitted by Anna, Denmark

Q. Dear Oracle! I've just read an article from June 2008. And it says that Coldplay made a song with Kylie Minogue called Laura, but it wouldn't come on the Viva la Vida record because it wouldn't fit in. I would really love to hear that song. I've tried YouTube but didn't I found the song, do you have a link or something like that so I could hear it? Love Anna

The Oracle replies:

As you've got the song's title wrong that explains why you've had difficulty finding it. It's called Lhuna and if you'd known that you could have looked at our tag cloud. You would have found the information there.

July 7, 2010 - submitted by Aleksander, Canada

Q. Dear Oracle, I need your sincere help!! I really wanted to buy a Coldplay Viva la Vida T-shirt from the band's online shop but none are being sold anymore with my size. When is the store going to be restocked? Thank you so much, Alex

The Oracle replies:

Sorry but the shop won't be getting any further Viva stock because that campaign is over; that's why there's a sale on. Hopefully around the next album's tour you'll get lucky.

July 6, 2010 - submitted by Paz, Colombia

Q. Dear Oracle, What do you think about the huge and unacceptable referee mistake in the Enlgand-Germany match? Do you think FIFA should allow technology as an aid for referees?

The Oracle replies:

Mistakes that obvious are arguably unacceptable but to introduce technology would definitely interfere with the flow of the match. It works in tennis but I just don't see how it would have the same effect in football. That said when your team lose down to poor judgment or bad observation I'm always yelling that there should be instant replays for the ref and linesmen!

July 6, 2010 - submitted by Luna, Canada

Q. Hi Oracle (: I stumbled upon "It Might Get Loud 3 Generations of Rock" and I would like to know the name of the Led Zeppelin song that is played from 1:18 - 1:38 amazing isn't it? Thank you L

The Oracle replies:

It sounds like Whole Lotta Love to me; albeit different from the original album version.

July 6, 2010 - submitted by Hector, United States of America

Q. Oracle is this true?

The Oracle replies:

To be absolutely honest with you, it's not really. As the album is work in progress this article has been put together with a few facts and some untruths gathered over the past few months. As I always say we will give out the most up to date and correct information here on the website as and when it happens but as usual we won't be giving too much information about the album away at this early stage. The release date is always subject to speculation but I'd ignore that if I were you I'd recommend you just read Roadie #42's blogs and watch out for news issued by Anchorman.

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Hundreds of unseen early photographs of Coldplay could be published in the next few years, MusicRooms have reported, in response to the latest Art History interview posted on Coldplay's official site this week. Whether this will happen or not is uncertain, but MusicRooms are certainly pushing the cause to get the photos out into the public domain.

They write that John Hilton, close friend of guitarist Jonny Buckland (pictured), has known the band since they formed at university in London in 1996. The group went by several names including Pectoralz and Starfish before settling on the name Coldplay in 1997. When the time came for the band to release its first EP, they asked John to do the album’s artwork. Looking for inspiration, John watched the group rehearse in their dingy apartment for weeks, taking hundreds of candid images of the young soon-to-be stars...

John also did the artwork for the group’s second album, but handed the job over to professionals when the group signed their first big record deal in 1999. He now finds it difficult to look at the covers he designed without cringing, but loves flipping through the images he has of the band. He is currently storing them in a box in his London home, but hasn’t ruled out sharing them with the world in the future.

“It’s great to have designed covers for Coldplay, although I'm more proud of the hundreds of photographs I've got of them rehearsing in their flat,” John said in an interview on Coldplay’s official blog. “They're all in a big Camden recycling box at the moment, in my wardrobe. Maybe one day I'll dig them all out. But it never felt right to try and exploit that sort of thing.”

The official Coldplay site continues their series of news articles that focus on interviewing the designers of some of the artwork to their previous releases. You can discuss the artwork interviews series at the Coldplay forum here onwards [thanks coldplayisawesome]

Art history #2 is the Brothers and Sisters EP...

We continue our new series of interviews with the designers behind Colpdplay's single and album covers, with a look at the band's second release, Brothers & Sisters. Like their first single, it was designed by a friend of the band, John Hilton...

Hi John. So, after you'd done the artwork for the Safety EP, Coldplay then got a single deal with Fierce Panda and you were asked you to do the next artwork too.

That's right.

What was the thought process behind that one?

That was more like a proper project at college. I treated them like the client. At the time, they were quite into Radiohead, so it was quite Radiohead-y. I did lots of ideas in sketchbooks and on Photoshop. And this was when Photoshop was still quite new.

What's on the cover?

Well there's just a little image of some drowning, bobbing people, in that sketchy way. They quite liked that, but it was a bit boring on its own. I had this picture from my back garden in my horrible little student home in Birmingham. I remember there was this white pitbull dog in the garden next door which just used to bark constantly and drive me nuts. So it was a kind of angst-y, teenage-y picture, and it was supposed to be about being somewhere not so great. It was middle class angst, I suppose.

That picture was taken out of your bedroom window?

Exactly, from my college digs. So it's a solarised, negative version of that. You can see a fence, a couple of bin bags and that dog that was always barking. And over the top it's the drawing of Coldplay.

By this stage the band were beginning to go places. Were you under more pressure for this one?

No, I remember it being brilliant. I was really good friends with Jonny - I still am - so I'd go down there to see them all the time at university. And I'd be going with them to Fierce Panda. It felt like I was part of a team. They were very good at making everyone feel welcome. I was properly involved when they were recording things, as was all of our bunch of friends. We'd all be around. I was in the Fierce Panda studios working on the artwork and deciding where all the text and the logo would go. It just felt like I was helping them out, and vice versa.

Do you own a copy of this one?

Yeah, I have got that one. It's a bit battered though. It's had a lot of use.

How do you look back on that cover?

At the time I thought it was good, but you look back and it just looks like a pile of college rubbish now!

It has a certain charm. It's not too slick.

No, it certainly wasn't! This is the point where they still looked like geeky students. There was nothing polished about it.

So once they signed for Parlophone did your role as art man end?

Yeah, that's when it started to become a proper competition. Which was fine. I actually think I had better covers for the Brothers & Sisters one at the time - although in hindsight, they'd have looked rubbish as well - but that was the one that they chose.

Can you remember what the other options were?

Oh there's a whole load of them somewhere. I went off on loads of tangents. But I don't think they ever expected it to go massively stellar at that point. I think they just thought, screw it, it's of its time, it doesn't matter. And it doesn't really matter. It sells on the basis that it's this great early single from a now big band, and it's almost better that it's got a crap cover.

Crap is harsh. Have you designed other record covers since?

Only for bands I've been in. I've put down Photoshop now, really.

Do you still tell people that you've designed covers for Coldplay?

I used to, but I don't any more. I'll mention it occasionally if it comes up.

It's a pretty cool string to have on your bow.

Yeah, it's great. Although I'm more proud of the hundreds of photographs I've got of them rehearsing in their flat.

Have you got any plans to do anything with those?

They're all in a big Camden recycling box at the moment, in my wardrobe. Maybe one day I'll dig them all out. But it never felt right to try and exploit that sort of thing.

And you're still in touch with them?

Yeah. Jonny was my best man at my wedding, along with my friend Gav. We hang out all the time.

They've done quite well for themselves.

Brilliantly, I'm very, very proud.

Are you in a band still?

I am. I've been in a few bands over the years - Bettina Motive and Grand Transmitter. The one I'm in now is called The Complete Short Stories. It's a seven-piece with a girl singer. We've just done an album on Pointy records, which is a subsidiary of Fierce Panda. It's all going quite well at the moment.

Big thanks to John for the chats. Click here to check out The Complete Short Stories on MySpace.

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1400 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

July 5, 2010 - submitted by Margaret, United Kingdom

Q. Oracle, is it true that 5th band member Phil moved to Australia for a few years?

The Oracle replies:

It is indeed true. He left the UK in 2002 and eventually made it to Australia where he studied Psychology. I have it on good authority that he became a fan of Mrs. Ashmead's home cooking whilst there.

July 5, 2010 - submitted by Jay, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, I have been trying to work this out for months now, and I had the idea to ask you. What is the Rush of Blood to the head Album artwork based on? Thanks in Advance, Jay

The Oracle replies:

Watch out for Anchorman's look at AROBTTH in a future installment of his Cover Artwork series...

July 5, 2010 - submitted by Allie, United States of America

Q. Greetings Oracle. What did you think of Suarez's handball against Ghana?

The Oracle replies:

I don't refer to it as handball; it was no accident nor "hand of god" but a full on save! He did what any other player would have done to stop the ball from going in and as it goes it was the right decision because it got his team through albeit via penalties. I'm sure he won't regret that decision and quite honestly I would have done the same. I loved the match and the 31st minute was the most exciting I've seen all tournament.

July 2, 2010 - submitted by Melisa, Argentina

Q. Hi Oracle. Can you please tell me why the guys have a hand on their VLV jackets?? Does it have a meaning for them? Please answer... Thank you and Love for you all from Argentina!

The Oracle replies:

It's only Will that has a hand on his jacket as it's the same as his tattoo - of his daughter's hand print.

July 2, 2010 - submitted by Benjamin, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, You recently answered a question about the new Twilight movie, saying that you've read the books, my question is... are you a woman? because I've yet to meet a man who has ever even picked up one of those books.

The Oracle replies:

I am not alone. The first book was a gift and I confess I would never have picked it up otherwise but it felt rude not to read it. Confession time... I actually haven't read the final installment as I really did not enjoy the first three!

July 2, 2010 - submitted by Zeashan, United Arab Emirates

Q. What's the story?

The Oracle replies:

Morning Glory?

July 2, 2010 - submitted by Griff, United Kingdom

Q. Hey all knowing Oracle. Chris was photographed yesterday with strapping on his thumb. Is it broken? How did he do it? Thanks, Griff

The Oracle replies:

It's not broken but he did sustain an injury from a paintballing incident. I'm not joking either... but you should see the other guy ;)

July 1, 2010 - submitted by Tyler, United States of America

Q. Is it Chris' handwriting on the cover of the Roadie book? It surely looks like Mr. Martin's penmanship!

The Oracle replies:

Er, quite simply, no. It's not a Coldplay book; it's about Matt's life with them so it's not endorsed specifically therefore other than the foreword there's no handwritten stuff or otherwise...

July 1, 2010 - submitted by Colin, United States of America

Q. Hey Oracle, What is Hunting High and Low? Colin

The Oracle replies:

As you've written it that's a title of a song by A-ha that Coldplay have been known to cover live. Generally speaking I'm sure you know that it means searching absolutely everywhere...

Coldplay have said that they are "very pleased" that BBC 6 Music has been saved from closure. The BBC Trust chairman Sir Michael Lyon today (July 5) rejected proposals for the digital station to be shut as part of budget cuts. Let us know what you think in the World of Music forum now [thanks mc_squared]

Coldplay were one of a host of musicians who backed a campaign for the station to be saved when its proposed closure was first muted in March. In a message on coldplay.com, the band praised fans who rallied for 6 Music to remain open. The group, who are currently recording their new album, added that 6 Music played “a crucial and unique role in British music”.

Today, Coldplay responded with the following statement: "You might remember that, earlier this year, the BBC announced its plans to close 6 Music, the wonderful radio station which plays a crucial and unique role in British music. We're very pleased to report that the BBC Trust today rejected the station's planned closure. This was largely due to the enormous public opposition to the plans. So, we'd like to offer heartfelt congratulations to everyone at 6 Music and a big thanks to all of you who took the trouble to contact the BBC Trust and voice your opinions. Coldplay."