In an online article at Broadcastnow, it has been exclusively revealed that Melvyn Bragg [pictured] is currently filming a UK show which will feature Coldplay, before he leaves the show. No dates yet when this will be broadcast. Here is the article:

ITV insiders fear that Melvyn Bragg's departure will mark the death of arts on the commerical broadcaster, despite assurances today that new arts programmes will be sought. Staff in the South Bank Show production unit were in tears this morning as they read an email from Bragg to say he would resign after the current season concluded in 2010. Meanwhile, ITV executive chairman Michael Grade met with senior managers this morning to break the news of Bragg's departure in person.

Bragg, who has spent 33 years at ITV, is today filming an upcoming South Bank Show episode profiling the multi-award winning rock band Coldplay.

One insider said: "Some of the staff still did not know that Bragg was leaving until the press were told. It's a been quite a shock and a lot of them are inconsolable, especially since Melvyn did not tell them himself. There is definitely a feeling that it marks the end of the arts department at ITV. For years, The South Bank Show has survived, but many think that is because Melvyn has such strong political connections, which are quite useful for ITV. The department has been cut back so substantially and now most people are resigned to the fact that they will probably lose their job when The South Bank Show finishes."

Another source said: "The arts department will be devastated, with yet more redundancies on top of the many they have already made."

The South Bank Show is one of the few arts programmes currently airing on ITV. In the past year other arts commissions have included Aled Jones' Christmas Carols and religious art programme Faith in the Frame. In a statement earlier today, ITV said Bragg was discussing other potential projects with the broadcaster and the network would be "looking at opportunities for new arts programming".

An ITV spokesman added that it was already known that current contract for The South Bank Show was due to expire next summer, but said potential alternative roles may be found for staff members in other areas of ITV Studios. It is not clear how many people are currently employed by The South Bank Show but insiders believe it is somewhere between five and ten. The spokesman confirmed ITV would be looking for new arts programmes, with indies and producers welcome to pitch ideas to the relevant factual or entertainment commissioners "depending on what the idea is".

"We are always open to receiving pitches for new ideas, not only for arts but across all genres," he said.

Source: BroadcastNow

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

May 6, 2009 - submitted by Kimberley, Canada

Q. Dearest Oracle, Help me please...my 4 year old daughter is a huge fan of Coldplay, ( so am I, as it was my frequent listening to them at home that got her into them) and she has requested a t-shirt when I go see Coldplay in concert. They don't seem to have kiddo clothes...or do they? I don't want to disappoint my daughter...and by the way her favorite song and video is The Scientist. Thanks for your help!

The Oracle replies:

There was a time when the online shop had a few children's sized t-shirts but you won't find any at the merch stands at shows. They usually cost much more than adult shirts, so it didn't seem to be a very viable option.

May 6, 2009 - submitted by Matt, United States of America

Q. Did Coldplay really have to learn to play "The Scientist" backward for the music video?

The Oracle replies:

The band didn't have to play any music backwards for the video. However, the reverse video did require Chris to lip synch backwards. It took him around a month to learn it and on the day of the shoot there were boards with the lyrics written on, just in case.

May 6, 2009 - submitted by Lulu, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, Can you fall in love, then fall out of love but still want to be with this person? Is it okay to still be together if one person feels stronger about the other than this other does for them, even though this other does still love the other? I love this guy, but I don't know if I'm still "in love." I think that I was, but now I'm not so sure. He still loves me like he did when we started dating, but now he's more my best friend than a boyfriend, though we are still going out. It worries me. And I still do love him, too. So can you fall out of love, yet still love?

The Oracle replies:

I believe you absolutely can. Sometimes people use the term 'in love' and perhaps don't realize that actually the intoxicating feeling is the first throes of a new relationship. This feeling can pass, usually within the first 2 years and when it goes, people assume that they don't love the person as much. It might have been replaced with a deeper, truer love. It's hard to guess as love can feel like a rollercoaster ride. You can feel in love one day and the intense feelings can pass another. But they can come and go, so you may feel them again. If you do find that you just want to be friends and that's the only feeling you have, it'd be kinder in the long run to walk away, but take care to explore your feelings.

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

May 5, 2009 - submitted by Dot, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, In Roadie 42's latest blog, he said that before X&Y, only Will did backup vocals, but in the Live 2003 DVD I thought I saw Jonny on backup as well. Am I remembering things incorrectly?

The Oracle replies:

You're right, Jonny was singing backing vocals from a very early stage. Followed by Will, Guy was the last to brave the idea.

May 5, 2009 - submitted by Martin, United Kingdom

Q. Hello Oracle, Just a quick question to test your awesome power of knowledge... is the coldplay song "Poor Me" found as a b-side Fix You....spelt Poor Me or Pour Me? As Itunes and Wikipedia disagree with each other...What be a great help if you could tell me

The Oracle replies:

As the song had been heard live long before there was a recorded version, people had assumed it was Poor Me. It wasn't until it appeared as a b-side on Fix You that everyone could see the title was in fact Pour Me.

May 4, 2009 - submitted by Lucas, Spain

Q. Hi, Oracle! Just wondering, does Coldplay use PCs or Macs? Thanx! =D

The Oracle replies:

They use Macs.

May 4, 2009 - submitted by Megan, United States of America

Q. Oracle, I need to know your opinion on something. My friends are being really weird about a surprise they're getting me for my birthday. I'm trying to figure out what it is. The clues are: 1) goes by the name of PCP 2) since none of us can drive we need rides to it. What do you think? Megan. ps. i NEED to know what it is!!

The Oracle replies:

Well it seems pretty obvious to me but I wouldn't want to spoil the surprise now would I?

May 4, 2009 - submitted by Meli, Argentina

Q. Who's the girl in the scientist video? Is she famous in England or something like that? I'll appreciate an answer :)

The Oracle replies:

I have mentioned her before but she's quite a well known actress called Elaine Cassidy.

Singer-songwriter Cat Stevens agreed on Monday that the Coldplay song, "Viva La Vida," sounds like one of his 1973 songs, but he stopped short of saying he would sue for plagiarism.

"My son brought it to my attention and said: 'Doesn't that sound like 'Foreigner Suite?'" the musician, now known as Yusuf Islam, told Reuters. "The song definitely sounds like it," he said of his song. "It has such logical chords and the melody has to be what it is..."

Asked during a telephone interview from London whether he would pursue the issue legally, Islam, 60, said "it depends on how well Satriani does." U.S. guitarist Joe Satriani has sued Coldplay, accusing the British band of copyright infringement. He claims substantial original portions of his song "If I Could Fly" are recycled in "Viva La Vida" and is seeking damages.

Islam, whose new album "Roadsinger," comes out on Tuesday (May 5), was unable to perform at a New York concert on Sunday because of "work permit" issues. The singer, a Muslim convert, said the problem was unrelated to his being denied entry into the United States five years ago because his name was on a government no-fly list.

"It's just been delayed by a week," he said of his trip to the United States to promote the album. "The day I was scheduled to go to the (U.S.) embassy they had implemented a new system. There were gremlins in the works, but they (U.S. officials) were all so nice."

Islam is scheduled to play one show in Los Angeles next week and appear on "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" on May 13.

What do you think about this latest plagiarism claim? Is this just merely just attention-seeking because Cat Stevens happens to have an album release today, or does he have a point? Let us know your views at the Coldplay forum here onwards [thanks Sirhc]

Yusuf Islam has reportedly claimed that Coldplay lifted part of their 'Viva La Vida' hit from one of his songs. According to The Sun, the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens has alleged that Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman and Will Champion appeared to have sampled a melody from his 1970s track 'Foreigner Suite'.

"There’s been this argument about Coldplay stealing this melody from Joe Satriani, but, if you listen to it, it’s mine! It’s the 'Foreigner Suite', it is!" he is quoted as saying. Earlier this month, the band denied in a US Federal Court that they had copied part of their song from Satriani's 2004 instrumental 'If I Could Fly'. Satriani had suggested that Coldplay had incorporated "substantial original portions" of his track, but the band later countered this claim by saying that Satriani's track "lacks originality" and should not receive copyright protection.

New York based act Creaky Boards have also claimed that 'Viva La Vida' was influenced by one of their songs, an allegation later dismissed by Martin.

What do you think about this latest plagiarism claim? Is this just merely just attention-seeking because Cat Stevens happens to have an album release today, or does he have a point? Let us know your views at the Coldplay forum here onwards [thanks Sirhc]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As you will probably know by now it has been reported that guitarist Joe Satriani has sued Coldplay, alleging that portions of Coldplay’s "Viva la Vida" incorporate material from Satriani’s "If I Could Fly", reports Madisonian today.

Read the actual court document detailing the case against Coldplay here [pdf... right click, save as]. For those who didn’t instantly know what the suit is about, Youtube has

For those wondering what the law says about this kind of suit, it’s easy to state the doctrine. Infringement exists when the defendant copied from the plaintiff’s work an amount of material that renders the two works “substantially similar.” In deciding whether copying exists, courts ask whether the defendant had access to the plaintiff’s work and whether the similarities between the two works are sufficient that, more likely than not, the similarities arise from copying.

If copying exists, courts then evaluate whether the works are “substantially similar,” i.e. sound too much alike. First appearances don’t look good for Coldplay. Nevertheless, many speculate that a band as well-known and successful as Coldplay would not copy so obviously. Coldplay is already hugely successful, would be discovered if infringing, and has the money to pay a judgment.

So what happened then? I’m thinking that this case is Bright Tunes v. Harrisongs all over again. In that case, the Chiffons sued George Harrison, alleging that “My Sweet Lord” was a copy of “He’s So Fine.”

The twist to Bright Tunes is that Harrison claimed he did not copy from the Chiffons, and the judge believed him because of testimony that Harrison and his fellow band members improvised “My Sweet Lord” during a recording session. The judge concluded that Harrison must have heard “He’s So Fine” and stored the melody in his unconscious memory. When Harrison began “searching” for a good tune for a new song, the melody from “He’s So Fine” popped into Harrison’s mind, and he did not realize that he was in fact “copying” from the Chiffons. The judge decided in favor of the Chiffons, holding that copying is actionable in copyright whether conscious or unconscious.

The Bright Tunes v. Harrisongs position on unconscious copying is well-entrenched in copyright doctrine, but it has been criticized on the ground that it makes illegal the very process by which most songs are created. Composers choose patterns of notes because they have heard similar patterns in the past and found them pleasing. If that is so, the only thing separating Harrison (and perhaps Coldplay) from being clear of infringement is the coincidence that their unconscious memory delivered them a recognizable tune, instead of one either unrecognizable (perhaps because it’s not well-known) or one cobbled together from snippets of other tunes.

People have sometimes thought that, even if Bright Tunes was wrong, it was unlikely to be reconsidered because another such case might never come along. Interestingly, perhaps the “repeat version” of Bright Tunes has now been filed, and courts may get a chance to rethink whether copyright infringement is something you can do innocently, or whether it’s something that requires some kind of culpable purpose.

Oxfam America have posted an update in the forums on the Oxfam volunteering for the forthcoming Viva La Vida US tour. Here are some of the FAQ that have been answered so far:

-- Yes, you'll get to see the show for free! You'll interact with other Coldplay fans up until a few minutes before the show, then you'll get to enjoy the concert. Just before it ends, you'll meet back up with all the other volunteers to reach-out to folks as they leave the building.

-- Pete (Lusby) won't be traveling on this tour for us, but Soha will! You may have read her blogs after she covered for Pete on the last few dates of the last US leg. She's very cool, super smart, lots of fun, and actually came to Oxfam America as a Coldplay fan at a concert in LA! She'll be blogging away, just as Pete did, so I hope you'll all follow her travels around the country with the band.

-- As far as age requirements go, you should be 18 or older, unless you'll have a family member who is 18+ volunteering with you.

There are still a few slots left at most shows, so if you are interested, please sign up at oxfamamerica.org. More details at the Oxfam volunteering thread in the Coldplay Live forum here [thanks Oxfam America]

A full list of shows you can still volunteer for are...

COLDPLAY 05/15/09: West Palm Beach, FL - USA

COLDPLAY 05/17/09: Atlanta, GA - USA

COLDPLAY 05/18/09: Birmingham, AL - USA

COLDPLAY 05/20/09: Virginia Beach, VA - USA

COLDPLAY 05/21/09: Washington, DC - USA

COLDPLAY 05/23/09: Hartford, CT - USA

COLDPLAY 05/24/09: Hershey, PA - USA

COLDPLAY 05/26/09: Philadelphia, PA - USA

COLDPLAY 05/27/09: Saratoga Springs, NY - USA

COLDPLAY 05/29/09: Scranton, PA - USA

COLDPLAY 05/30/09: Pittsburgh, PA - USA

COLDPLAY 06/01/09: Buffalo, NY - USA

COLDPLAY 06/02/09: Detroit, MI - USA

COLDPLAY 06/04/09: Cincinnati, OH - USA

COLDPLAY 06/05/09: Indianapolis, IN - USA

COLDPLAY 06/06/09: Nashville, TN - USA

COLDPLAY 06/09/09: New Orleans, LA - USA

COLDPLAY 06/10/09: San Antonio, TX - USA

COLDPLAY 06/12/09: Des Moines, IA - USA

COLDPLAY 06/13/09: Omaha, NE - USA

COLDPLAY 07/10/09: Portland, OR - USA

COLDPLAY 07/11/09: George, WA - USA

COLDPLAY 07/13/09: San Francisco, CA - USA

COLDPLAY 07/14/09: Sacramento, CA - USA

COLDPLAY 07/16/09: San Diego, CA - USA

COLDPLAY 07/18/09: Carson, CA - USA

COLDPLAY 07/19/09: Irvine, CA - USA

COLDPLAY 07/21/09: Dallas, TX - USA

COLDPLAY 07/22/09: Houston, TX - USA

COLDPLAY 07/24/09: Maryland Heights, MO - USA

COLDPLAY 07/25/09: East Troy, WI - USA

COLDPLAY 08/02/09: Jersey City, NJ - USA

COLDPLAY 08/03/09: Mansfield, MA - USA

COLDPLAY 08/06/09: Raleigh, NC - USA

COLDPLAY 08/07/09: Charlotte, NC - USA

COLDPLAY 08/09/09: Tampa, FL - USA

Expect to see these banners at the shows:

Coldplay are giving their fans a free live album – and missing out on a fortune in the process, according to music business experts. In an online article at The Mirror this morning, it is calculated that releasing the record in the normal way could have netted Coldplay at least £10million in album sales alone.

But the album, recorded over the past year in various cities, will not please bosses at the band’s struggling label EMI which has relied on their success for its revenues. Terra Firma acquired stock market-listed EMI for just over £4billion, saddling it with £2.5billion of debt in the process. Guy Hands, who became chairman, quickly moved to cut costs. A source said: “They are cutting costs in every way they can think of and this probably won’t cheer them up very much.”

The band will finish their tour in the UK with two dates at Wembley stadium in September. Coldplay will give the nine-track CD LeftRightLeftRightLeft to anyone attending their Viva La Vida summer tour, which comes to the UK in September. And the album – which includes live versions of hit songs such as Clocks and Fix You – will also be available as a free download from their website during the length of the tour, starting on May 15.

Lead singer Chris Martin said it was a “recession-busting mark of gratitude” to fans. He added: “Playing live is what we love. This album is a thank-you to our fans – the people who give us a reason to do it and make it happen. It’s a tough economy and people are paying a lot of money for tickets.”

Meanwhile, Coldplay have now confirmed the final list of support acts for the forthcoming North American tour. Among the acts supporting Coldplay on the trek are Pete Yorn (May 15-June 4), Snow Patrol (June 5-21), Amadou & Mariam (July 10-24), Elbow (July 25-August 9), Howling Bells (May 15-21) and Kitty Daisy & Lewis (July 10-August 9).

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stop press! News from Anchorman confirming a nine track Coldplay album to be available at shows and online:

Good morning, We're pleased to announce that Coldplay will be giving away a live CD, LeftRightLeftRightLeft, at every remaining live show in 2009 (apart from festival shows). Starting with the band's first North American tour date, at West Palm Beach in Florida on May 15th, every fan attending a show will be given a free copy of the nine-track CD, which won't be available elsewhere. Also on May 15th, LeftRightLeftRightLeft will be made available as a free download right here at Coldplay.com, for all fans (and for the same time period).

According to the band, the give-away is meant as a recession-busting mark of gratitude to everyone who's supported them: "Playing live is what we love. This album is a thank you to our fans – the people who give us a reason to do it and make it happen." [discuss this] [tweet this] [album mailing exchange]

The album was recorded over the past year in various cities around the world on the Viva La Vida tour. Its tracklisting is as follows:

1. Glass of Water

2. 42

3. Clocks

4. Strawberry Swing

5. The Hardest Part/Postcards From Far Away

6. Viva La Vida

7. Death Will Never Conquer

8. Fix You

9. Death And All His Friends

And here is the artwork:

Roll on May 15th...

Anchorman

If you've not already seen the email, Coldplay's latest Messenger has a new competition which has just opened. Here's a reminder of the details:

The CD version of LeftRightLeftRightLeft will not be available anywhere apart from the gigs, but we have managed to nab one copy, which the band will sign, to give away to you folks. To win it, simply email your name and address to competitions@coldplay.com before Tuesday 12th May. One entry per person, please. The winner of the Coldplay iPod Touch from TCM14 was Paolo M from Croydon, UK (congrats Paolo!).

UPDATE: If you are not going to a Coldplay show in 2009 and therefore not able to receive your very own physical copy of LeftRightLeftRightLeft, worry not! We have a CD mailing exchange where you can sign up to receive a free CD from another member who will have spare copies from the shows they attend. For full details, go to the Coldplay forum here [thanks Cobalt]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stop press! News from Anchorman confirming a nine track Coldplay album to be available at shows and online:

Good morning, We're pleased to announce that Coldplay will be giving away a live CD, LeftRightLeftRightLeft, at every remaining live show in 2009 (apart from festival shows). Starting with the band's first North American tour date, at West Palm Beach in Florida on May 15th, every fan attending a show will be given a free copy of the nine-track CD, which won't be available elsewhere. Also on May 15th, LeftRightLeftRightLeft will be made available as a free download right here at Coldplay.com, for all fans (and for the same time period).

According to the band, the give-away is meant as a recession-busting mark of gratitude to everyone who's supported them: "Playing live is what we love. This album is a thank you to our fans – the people who give us a reason to do it and make it happen." [discuss this] [tweet this] [album mailing exchange]

The album was recorded over the past year in various cities around the world on the Viva La Vida tour. Its tracklisting is as follows:

1. Glass of Water

2. 42

3. Clocks

4. Strawberry Swing

5. The Hardest Part/Postcards From Far Away

6. Viva La Vida

7. Death Will Never Conquer

8. Fix You

9. Death And All His Friends

And here is the artwork:

Roll on May 15th...

Anchorman

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

May 1, 2009 - submitted by Bon, Mexico

Q. Hi Oracle! I would want to know which Coldplay song is the most controversial? And why?

The Oracle replies:

I guess I'd have to say Spies purely for the reason that the song was banned in China due to political sensitivity! That is totally true.

May 1, 2009 - submitted by brian, United States of America

Q. When you cover other bands songs in concert do you have to get permission from the band or can you just play them?

The Oracle replies:

No you don't need permission. Here in the U.K bands have to submit a set list of the songs they play to the venue so that if any covers are performed, the original artist will receive some money under a blanket PRS (Performing Rights Society) agreement. Any venue that plays recorded or live music pay for a music license that allows the monitoring of who and what gets played where and when.

May 1, 2009 - submitted by Dean, United States of America

Q. Why does Coldplay hate Atlanta? Why do we get Pete Yorn as an opener on May 17 when everyone else gets Snow Patrol, Amadou and Mariam and Elbow? Those guys are awesome! Pete Yorn sucks.

The Oracle replies:

Coldplay LOVE Atlanta and have had an interesting history whenever they have played there. Each to their own but I am personally sick that we're not getting Pete Yorn in the U.K as I think he's great. I've not seen him play live for over 5 years! FYI: They have shared a stage before during the 2002 Meltdown festival, curated by David Bowie at London's Royal Festival Hall.

Stop press! News from Anchorman confirming a nine track Coldplay album to be available at shows and online:

Good morning, We're pleased to announce that Coldplay will be giving away a live CD, LeftRightLeftRightLeft, at every remaining live show in 2009 (apart from festival shows). Starting with the band's first North American tour date, at West Palm Beach in Florida on May 15th, every fan attending a show will be given a free copy of the nine-track CD, which won't be available elsewhere. Also on May 15th, LeftRightLeftRightLeft will be made available as a free download right here at Coldplay.com, for all fans (and for the same time period).

According to the band, the give-away is meant as a recession-busting mark of gratitude to everyone who's supported them: "Playing live is what we love. This album is a thank you to our fans – the people who give us a reason to do it and make it happen." [discuss this] [tweet this] [album mailing exchange]

The album was recorded over the past year in various cities around the world on the Viva La Vida tour. Its tracklisting is as follows:

1. Glass of Water

2. 42

3. Clocks

4. Strawberry Swing

5. The Hardest Part/Postcards From Far Away

6. Viva La Vida

7. Death Will Never Conquer

8. Fix You

9. Death And All His Friends

And here is the artwork:

Roll on May 15th...

Anchorman

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

April 30, 2009 - submitted by Daan, United Kingdom

Q. Dear all-knowing, I come before you once again befuzzled and confused, looking for answers. It seems the whole world - and definitely the whole web - is confused about which Coldplay version is How You See The World (Live At Earl's Court), released with The Hardest Part and How You See the World No.2 (released on Help: A Day in the Life). Even iTunes hasn't got it straight I think. Can you just clarify for us please: which version starts with the words "you put the world in a tin can, black market contraband" and which version starts with the words "are you missing something? Looking for something?" I don't think this question has been asked yet.

The Oracle replies:

Chris re-recorded vocals with new lyrics for the second version that was re-written for the Help!: A Day in the Life album, hence naming it How You See the World No. 2. Its opening line is "You put the world in a tin can".

April 30, 2009 - submitted by Ainsley, Norway

Q. I did not know that there was a documentary about Coldplay called: Love, Actually! Did Chris, Guy, Jonny and Will help make it?

The Oracle replies:

Out of the many documentaries about Coldplay, few had their involvement. You can usually tell which ones did from the way the band appear within the film. For instance, the 60 Minute special was official. The host and Chris wandering round The Bakery proves this. Any programmes where it looks like a copy, cut and paste of clips from anywhere and everywhere are unofficial.

April 30, 2009 - submitted by Me the Greatest, Spain

Q. Hello, Oracle! How do you do? It would be VERY nice to see your answer to these questions, so please answer: 1. What do you think is the best Original Soundtrack that has ever sounded? 2.What do you think is the best book ever written? 3. What song of Coldplay is the best known? Thank you, Oracle! PS: And please answer!! Lol

The Oracle replies:

1. Purple Rain or The Graduate. 2. The Dictionary (honestly, where would we be without it?) 3. I think as it's one of their most recent hits, Viva la Vida is probably their most known song worldwide. There are still people who haven't heard of Coldplay but have probably heard their music without knowing who it is.

Michael Eavis, founder of the Glastonbury music festival, has been named on Time magazine's list of the world's most influential people. Mr Eavis has run the legendary event on his Somerset dairy farm for 39 years.

He is one of 100 people listed, along with US President Barack Obama, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, teen actor Zac Efron and TV host Oprah Winfrey. Mr Eavis, 73, said he was "flattered and maybe a little embarrassed" to be on the prestigious annual list. Since Mr Eavis started the event in 1970, Glastonbury has grown into one of the world's largest and best-loved music gatherings.

Coldplay singer Chris Martin paid tribute to Mr Eavis in an article for Time, writing that Glastonbury was 'the biggest rock cathedral in the world'. "Michael is one of the people to whom I owe my life and career," he wrote, explaining how the offer of a headline slot in 2002 had changed everything. "We've headlined other festivals, but Glastonbury is the only one that feels like - and is - a family event. It's also the only one where we received some handmade cheese as a thank you," Chris added.

Mr Eavis, who was made a CBE in 2007, said: "I've put in thirty-nine years and things have worked out incredibly well in that time. "So I'm flattered and maybe a little embarrassed to make it onto this list. We've been awarded the best festival in the world by Pollstar in the USA for the last four years, so that must count for something over there. What's really important too, is that I'm a non-conformist. It's all about kicking against the traces and making it work."

Other musicians on the list included British rapper MIA, Bollywood composer AR Rahman and conductor Gustavo Dudamel. Film stars Kate Winslet, George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Penelope Cruz made the grade, as did designer Stella McCartney, film director Werner Herzog and talk show host Jay Leno.

They rubbed shoulders on the list with French President Nicolas Sarkozy, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, London mayor Boris Johnson and Twitter founders Biz Stone and Evan Williams.

Source: Time Magazine/BBC

Music industry insiders have said that Football Association chiefs who suggested that the poor playing conditions at Wembley Stadium are caused by the pop concerts held at the venue are wrong.

Earlier this month Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger said that he didn't think that concerts were to blame – a sentiment echoed by a variety of industry insiders. According to Music Week a variety of anonymous music industry heads pointed to the fact that the last concert to take place at the venue was Madonna's gig there in September – with the pitch since being relayed in January.

The insiders went on to say that the venue's gig schedule could actually help the ground staff try out new kinds of grass surface. The pitch is scheduled to be re-laid after gigs by U2, Oasis and Coldplay this summer.

"It is simplistic to blame concerts," one of the sources was quoted as saying. "The two [gigs and football matches] are not mutually incompatible. They worked in the old place, it is just a question of getting the new microclimate right and finding out what pitch works best."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coldplay or Capello - what's more important?

Fabio Capello fears the controversial playing surface at Wembley - and the £757million national stadium's hyper-critical crowd - could harm England's World Cup qualifying campaign, writes the Daily Mail this weekend.

Capello's team are five points clear in Group Six ahead of the home match against Ukraine a week on Wednesday. But with some England stars expressing their dissatisfaction over the Wembley pitch, Capello and his backroom staff believe the state-of-the-art stadium may have become more of a hindrance than a help.

Wembley have four weeks after concerts by Oasis on July 9, 11 and 12 to relay the pitch for the showpiece Community Shield on August 9. It is understood the pitch will then be ripped up and relaid a week later, after the August 14 concert by U2, with just two weeks for the new turf to bed down before the rugby league Challenge Cup final, followed a week later by the Slovenia friendly on September 5 and Croatia qualifier four days later. The surface is in line to be ditched for a third time after Coldplay's September 18 and 19 shows, with only three-and-a-half weeks to prepare another new pitch for the Belarus qualifier on October 14.

Read the full article at the Wembley threads in the Coldplay Live forum here (18th Sept) and here (19th Sept).

Let the scramble begin. This morning at 10, when tickets go on sale for a June 17 concert at Pengrowth Saddledome, thousands of fans are expected to flood ticket sellers. Many of them may be disappointed, reports the Vancouver Sun.

The Internet age was supposed to make ticket-buying an easier, more efficient process than it had been in the past, when folks used to line up overnight, or longer, in the desperate hope of getting decent seats for major concert events.

But these days, securing a ticket for a show seems more complicated than ever, unless you've got some sort of inside track. And the ins and outs of the game are leaving a lot of music fans with a bitter taste.

Most of the public ire has been directed at Ticketmaster, with the company defending itself from accusations of facilitating scalping and driving up prices though its ticket auction website TicketsNow. It's now facing lawsuits and government investigations.

Ticketmaster, however, has denied any wrongdoing, insisting it has attempted to police the situation, removing tickets that show up on TicketsNow before they are available to the general public. Further, Ticketmaster stresses there are plenty of challenges in today's market when it comes to accommodating ticket buyers.

"We completely acknowledge the fans' frustration at being unable to get tickets," says Ticketmaster spokesman Albert Lopez. But he is also quick to point out there are several factors that contribute to hot shows selling out before fans can secure seats on the general sale day.

For one, promoters and artists frequently offer pre-sale initiatives for concerts. These include sales opportunities through artists' fan clubs, radio station promotions, and through programs that are typically available through companies such as Best Buy and American Express.

In addition, at most arenas, the Saddledome included, a large block of seats are put aside for club members and season ticket holders, which gives those people the first right of purchase for tickets. At the'Dome, that usually accounts for about 1,000 seats.

According to independent concert promoter Bryan Taylor, this can pose a problem because often these tickets wind up being resold, frequently on the Internet, at a huge markup. "The first inference people draw is Ticketmaster is scalping their tickets, but in reality it's (often) the people that have access to these tickets that are selling them," Taylor says.

Libby Raines, building operations manager at the Saddledome, has seen it happen, much to her chagrin. "The hockey team experiences the same thing," she says. "Tickets for the big games show up on eBay and StubHub and all these secondary ticket locations. It's something that's becoming more and more a fact of life as these Internet sales vehicles have become available."

Another issue has emerged on the technology front as ticket scalpers have reportedly found a way to lock up front-row seats which they can then resell at ridiculously inflated prices. "It's 2009,"says Lopez. "We're constantly protecting our system. There's always going to be somebody trying to circumvent that system and we are constantly working on our network to ensure that doesn't happen."

According to Lopez, another problem is that large blocks of seats are regularly held by the artist and the promoter. This is something Ticketmaster has little control over, he says. "We are selling tickets specifically at the direction of our clients, the promoters," Lopez says. "One hundred per cent of the allocation is theirs. They tell us when we can sell them and how we can sell them."

In Coldplay's case, the promoter is Live Nation.When asked how many of the 13,000 Coldplay tickets would actually be available to the general public today, Live Nation did not reply and they did not respond to interview requests.

But at the end of the day, Lopez says, the main contributor to tickets selling out at a startling rate is, as ever, high demand.

"The Internet is like a huge outlet and there's about 2,000 windows open for fans," Lopez says. "When those 2,000 people belly up to the digital counter and they start looking for tickets . . . say they each ask for four tickets . . . well, we've already taken 8,000 tickets out of the inventory. Immediately. . . . So when the 2,001st person in line finally gets to look at some tickets he may think, 'Wait a minute, why aren't these tickets as good as I thought they could be?'

"Well, they're not as good because you've had presales, VIP and platinum tickets, season ticket holders, holdbacks from the artist, the promoter and the venue, and then you've got 2,000 people in front of you."

However it shakes down, its not fair to the average consumer says Alberta Liberal MLA Laurie Blakeman, who has criticized the provincial government on the issue of consumer protection surrounding event tickets. "It's an elitist system," Blakeman says. "It's about money and connections."

Denis Lapointe, director of the Alberta Liberal caucus office in Calgary, seconds that. "Unless you've got some sort of in, some sort of privileged access, or you belong to a group that has access to tickets . . . it's very difficult," Lapointe says. "(The average concert goer) is at a real disadvantage and, arguably, if it's a big name event they don't even have a chance. . . . By the time they actually get online and in the position to buy a ticket, everything is gone."

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

April 29, 2009 - submitted by Jonsey, United States of America

Q. Was there ever a CD-R demo of the 2-track Ode to Deodorant release? OR was it recorded directly to cassette, then dubbed cassette to cassette?

The Oracle replies:

There was a CD-R demo but it was distributed on cassette, though not as a release. It was for demo purposes only.

April 29, 2009 - submitted by Daniel, Australia

Q. I saw you answered a completely non-related Coldplay question in "Do ducks have armpits". So I figured you will answer my slightly related Coldplay question... What sort of jacket is Chris Martin wearing in the film clip Fix You? Brand name and where to get it from would also be a help...

The Oracle replies:

I'm not here solely for Coldplay questions but this is an old Q from way back. I'm not sure you'd still be able to find the Dolce & Gabbana jacket that Chris was wearing.

April 29, 2009 - submitted by Jordan, United Kingdom

Q. Hello Oracle! Do you happen to know if Coldplay like SpongeBob SquarePants?

You may think me childish, but I actually happen to know quite a few adults that like the cartoon.

The Oracle replies:

Yes and Chris has a t-shirt! I don't think it's childish to like cartoons. After all, an adult came up with the concept and wrote the stories. I am a great believer in keeping my inner child happy and letting it out to play - frequently! As the band members all have children they have a great excuse to watch cartoons, though who needs an excuse?

Coldplay may have made their name with heart-stirring rock ballads, reports The Sun. But that’s about to change thanks to drummer Will Champions’s tinkering in the studio. The tub-thumper wants to take the rockers on a rave odyssey after investing in some top-of-the-range beat-making equipment.

Recent sessions have seen the sticks-man unveil a thundering, 168-beats-per- minute banger of a track. That’s proper hands in the air, big fish, little fish, cardboard box tempo. And at that speed it’s even faster than many techno tracks or anthems from rave’s heyday. The Sun was told: “The lads are still on a creative roll in the studio and Will is bringing lots of ideas to the table. He’s got a new drum machine and has been having a lot of fun pushing it to its limits. His most recent offering is turbo-charged, to say the least, but the lads have been having a great time working with it.”

Creative Will [pictured] — who frontman Chris Martin believes is the most versatile musician in the band — isn’t just keen on following the white gloves and whistles direction. He’s also been taking Chris, Jonny Buckland and Guy Berryman down an experimental jazz avenue. Nice. [comment] [tweet this]

The source added: “Will has got a track in seven-four time that he’s working on, 99 per cent of rock music is based around the standard four-four time signature. “It’s only the most adventurous of jazz people who compose anything with such an irregular beat. But he’s pressing forward with it.”

Will must be sprinkling something special on his Sugar Puffs if jazz is the new Coldplay flavour. But I suspect he might have a kindred spirit at the band’s converted bakery HQ in north London. Brian Eno, who is once again producing the new material, is no stranger to the experimental side of pop music. He’s been involved in all manner of avant-garde projects. The lads, who released single Life In Technicolor earlier this year, have been recording the follow-up to last year’s Viva La Vida album during a break from their world tour.

In the middle of May they will hit the road again, touring North America until the end of June before playing some summer festivals in Europe. They’ll bring their current campaign to a close with shows at Wembley Stadium on September 18 and 19.

Just in time for Ibiza’s closing parties.

Source: The Sun

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

April 27, 2009 - submitted by jake, United Kingdom

Q. Hey, in one of your interviews on YouTube, the guy interviewing you said that Jonny's daughter came up with Violet Hill? is that true or was it a joke? 'Cause my sheet music said written by you four. Violet Hill rocks! V i v a v i v a!

The Oracle replies:

Given that she was a baby at the time it's impossible! Her name is Violet, though Violet Hill is a place. You sheet music is correct.

April 27, 2009 - submitted by acameron, Canada

Q. Does the all-knowing Oracle ever "talk to The Universe" as advised in 'The Secret'?

The Oracle replies:

I spent all year doing that in 2008. I have just started again as it did seem to work from the sublime to the ridiculous!

April 27, 2009 - submitted by Jo Ann, United States of America

Q. I have tickets for the July 11th show at The Gorge in George Washington, USA. It is the first Coldplay concert I have been able to attend (finally!) And I was hoping to go with my husband, but he tells me he doesn't want to go. The concert is 8 hours from my house and nothing is going to keep me from going, but I really don't want to drive all that way by myself and I have two great seats. What should I do? I don't really have too many friends where I live yet and my family lives states away. Going to this concert is on my list of things to do before I die (even before Italy). Any ideas on how I can go without being all alone at the concert?

I hope you can help me, no one else has any ideas for me. Thanks, from Coldplay's biggest fan.....jo :O)

The Oracle replies:

Talk to your husband again. Although he doesn't "want" to go perhaps he will if he thinks about how much you want to go and how far you are prepared to travel - alone. It'd be a shame to miss out. Maybe there will be something he would like to do in the future that you don't; you can repay him by sacrificing your time to go along?

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

April 28, 2009 - submitted by elias, Mexico

Q. Hello mighty Oracle!!!! I have a question... in the album of Parachutes whats the yellow ball?? And what does that mean?? Also do you know when is going to be a concert in Mexico?? Thanks.

The Oracle replies:

The cover of Parachutes is a spinning globe light. I'm not sure if you've ever seen one but it was quite small and used to sit on Chris' piano during gigs back in the day. It was a last minute suggestion to use it for the cover as they were struggling to come up with ideas. Tour dates aren't given out in advance so it's just a case of checking back to see any new additions.

April 28, 2009 - submitted by Morgan, United Kingdom

Q. I was recently browsing on YouTube and found a video entitled The Nappies- um, when did Coldplay do this and why? It cracks me up every time I watch it :)

The Oracle replies:

This was made over 5 years ago for the impending arrival of Chris' first born. 'Tis indeed very funny. It was a one-off filmed during a recording session.

April 28, 2009 - submitted by Tiffany, United States of America

Q. I want to play the song Yellow as my first dance at my wedding. It's our song, I'm just afraid the my guests wont appreciate it. Good idea to play at my wedding?

The Oracle replies:

I mean no offence to your guests but whose wedding is this? It's yours so who cares what anyone thinks of your song choice? You should be dancing to your song if that's what you both want. I'm sure the guests will be so happy to see together that they won't care. That said my friends dance to Bitter Sweet Symphony by The Verve and it seemed to go on for days!

Simon Pegg is hoping Coldplay will let him direct one of their next music videos. The comedian, who features in the new Star Trek movie, told GQ magazine: "I'd love to direct some day. Doing a music video would be a great start. I've said to Chris [Martin, Coldplay frontman] a couple of times, if we get some time, I'd love to script a song."

The Shaun of The Dead star has collaborated with Coldplay once before, when he joined the band onstage in December 2008. Pegg played harmonica for the live performance of 'Green Eyes'.

Meanwhile, 'Peggy' revealed he doesn't want to make a Spaced movie as he doesn't feel it will work on the big screen. The British actor - who stars as Scotty in the new Star Trek movie - played sci-fi nerd Tim Bisley in the cult Channel 4 TV comedy which also starred Jessica Hynes and Nick Frost. Simon said: "I wasn't so sure about doing a Spaced movie, I feel like Spaced is very much a TV show."

He continued: "It was about big ideas in a small world and if you saw those big kind of grand movements you're used to seeing on the screen, you're used to seeing it there, whereas Spaced worked very much as a TV show. But if I get a chance to work with Jess again I'll take it in a flash because I love her."

The 39-year-old revealed he is honoured to be part of the 11th movie version of Star Trek. He said: "In Spaced there's a line where I'm talking about things that are sure in life and one of them is that every odd numbered Star Trek film is s**t. That's most certainly been disproved by this movie and it's lovely to go from being a self confessed fan of this kind of stuff and geek to being a part of it.

"I think if I was still doing Spaced now there would be a whole episode dedicated to how Tim Bisley would just be orgasmic about this movie. The irony of being in the film and being part of it is not lost on me at all, I can assure you."

Here's what Coldplay's Roadie #42 blogged when Simon Pegg joined Coldplay on stage at London's O2 Arena back in December:

This feel spreads further than the simple fact that much of the touring party is based here in London. The show itself has a family vibe through and through. The opening acts on all three nights have deep friendships and history with the band stretching way back. Having friends and family about them even extends to a guest appearance from Mr Simon Pegg. The man is obviously a star in his own right, but when you see the band beaming from ear to ear and cracking up as he adds harmonica to the C-Stage, you can see that he's here primarily because he's their mate.

His contribution on night one is solid, although it's clear the fact that he's standing in the spotlight in front of 18,000 people hasn't escaped his notice. The second night, he's positively on fire and appears to be loving every minute of it. By the third night he pretty much owns the place. Top fella.

Big Champagne has compiled a list of the most popular music artists on Twitter, headed by Britney Spears with 995,807 followers at the point the chart was compiled, reports MusicAlly.

The rest of the top ten is made up by John Mayer, Diddy, Coldplay, Sara Bareilles, A Fine Frenzy, Soulja Boy, Jimmy Eat World, Heidi Montag and Ashlee Simpson. It’s interesting to compare this new list with the Top Bands on Facebook list we published in January, whose top ten was made up of Rihanna, Coldplay, Lil Wayne, Linkin Park, Chris Brown, Metallica, Pink Floyd, Bob Marley, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Justin Timberlake.

Only Coldplay appear on both lists. Some may call them bed-wetters, but they’re at least fully connected Web 2.0 multimedia node bed-wetters, Alan McGee!

In addition to volunteering for Oxfam during Coldplay's forthcoming tours, you can also do your bit for Oxfam by bidding for some posh seats. Here's Anchorman with more details:

Coldplay have given Oxfam America a pair of VIP tickets for every show on the upcoming North American tour. The charity are now auctioning them, with the proceeds going towards their work creating lasting solutions to poverty, hunger, and injustice around the world. If you'd like to bid for a pair, then click here.

If you want to keep in touch with the latest from Oxfam America you can follow them on Twitter. You can also read more on the volunteering programme they have in place for the forthcoming legs of the Viva La Vida tour at the Coldplay Live forum here onwards.

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

April 24, 2009 - submitted by Misha, United States of America

Q. Hey Oracle I've got a question. In The Scientist, there's a lyric that states chasing tails. I'm really interested to know what is supposed to mean because I've never heard that term before. Thankyouuu C:

The Oracle replies:

You know how cats chase their tails? Well this line means the same. In fact, it's as the previous lyric -running in circles.

April 24, 2009 - submitted by Natalie, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, was my question not good enough for you to answer? That's sad, but I have another question for you:when you go to Coldplay concerts are you allowed to make poster signs?

The Oracle replies:

Many people take poster signs to concerts but all I'll say is, consider the people behind you because there's nothing worse than being stood with a restricted view because of a huge sign in front blocking the experience!

April 24, 2009 - submitted by Desperate for answers, Sweden

Q. Hello. I'm in the office, a computer programmer. But no, wait, I'm also an indie musician, about to release my second album entirely on my own budget and with no marketing/live on the horizon. Where is this going you wonder... Here goes:

I spend my time in the office not working, but browsing on Coldplay, Radiohead, REM and millions of other musician web pages, learning about their tours, reading their blogs and envying it all. I wish I was in their place. Hell, I've never played my music live, but still I have music fans adding me daily on MySpace and lately the fan base has been growing even more. When I come to the office in the morning I daydream about being in a band, spending my days writing material that matters, and sharing it with the rest of world in concerts, big and small. I envy the lifestyle of travelling all around the world playing your music in front of thousands of people singing your songs. Boy, does it beat the hell out of a computer programming desk job. On my way back to the bus stop after work, I keep telling myself that Radiohead and Coldplay are just a big business and that's the way it is. Its not evil, it just is. So I've been thinking that I'm spending my entire life on the wrong foot. I should be out there, playing my music, doing my thing, cause I live breath eat sleep and wake up with music, but not as my full time job, rather as a dream that as time slips away might never come true. Coldplay are heading for more concerts, and here I am in front of my computer, reading all about it but I know my day is going to be the same. Lately I've been realizing I shouldn't expect too much out of my music, I should keep it as a hobby, something that I do in my free time to feel good. But then I get to see all these news of Coldplay playing here, doing this doing that, hell, they're even going to record on a 747 jumbo in weightless conditions? Oh, you should feel my weight, as I drag my ass back to my flat, after a boring day at work. Hell I would do anything to just change all this but I don't see how. I'm not English nor American and English is not my first language, but I'm living in western European countries all this long. Yet I have a feeling that now is the time to do things, to do things my way, now's the time to scream that I want to live my life my way. And I'm not. I'm a robot, paying bills, working, going to bed dreaming of what would I'd if my life was different. Hey Oracle, why is it that I feel like that. I'm 32 just married guy, and in four months I'm going to have my first child. A baby girl. I'm happy, but have the feeling that as time goes by, life will take away what I really want and give me more bills to pay. Hell, as I'm writing these lines, this project manager walked in and asked me how are things progressing. You know? So Oracle give me an answer to all this. I can't quit my job. But I can't stand it either, I'd rather be a musician travelling the world just like Coldplay. Help me. Tell me the truth.

The Oracle replies:

I feel like Colonel Nathan R. Jessep , as you ask for the truth but I'm not sure you can handle the truth. Feeling bitter is not going to help and your message is full of negativity. You have to realize there are hundreds of thousands of people out there making music and a small handful will get signed and even less will go on to huge success. It's a tough business but you have to make music because you want to. Enjoy it and if something does come of it great, that's a bonus, but the chance of you getting anywhere just off a MySpace page is slim. If you're not playing gigs, who's gonna see you? Who's gonna write about you? Who's gonna play you on the radio? You have to put 100% effort in to get anything back, it ain't gonna come knocking on your door. I have to say that as you're about to become a father you have to start prioritizing your life. Yes you have to work to pay bills but most people do. Life is not taking away it has given you a wife and a daughter. I'm sorry to have to say this but if you really wanted to make it as a musician you would have tried everything you could to do it. Your age now doesn't help to be brutally honest as the industry is very fickle, though of course there are exceptions. You have to step up now and be a partner and a father. Continue to make your music but take pleasure from it rather than regret and resentment. There's a lot of luck involved as well as talent but from what you have told me, you need a more positive attitude and self-belief. It might not be too late but you certainly have an uphill struggle if you pursue this dream. I honestly believe in following your dreams but sometimes you have to face the fact that they may not ever come true. If you have the gift of music, use it but don't pin ALL your hopes on ever making a career out of it. Few do. Maybe there's a job out there for you that will give you fulfillment but if not, maybe you will get that from your family and the music you can make for enjoyment.

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

April 23, 2009 - submitted by Neil Norton, Switzerland

Q. Dear Oracle, I am very pleased with Coldplay's twitter account, and with the many updates that get posted. However, my question pertains to an account called "chrismartin72" and I was just wondering if this account has any legitimate association with the band. Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

Absolutely none. There are many bogus characters on some social networking sites claiming to be band members, tread with caution, as I'd say all of them are hoaxers.

April 23, 2009 - submitted by sam, Australia

Q. Hi Oracle! Speaking of The Scientist (my fav song!)Chris said at the Sydney concert that he dedicated this song to 'Dr Emily'...who is this?? (is this his friends girlfriend?) ...Also, my other question is why did the band make 2 videos for Trouble? ...I know I'm asking for a lot, but can you please tell me what your fave Coldplay song is...(I'm dying to know, and I'm sure everyone else is too!!)

Thanks so much Oracle :)

The Oracle replies:

Emily is Emily Bart-Smith who I have mentioned before as once being a member of The High Wire (with Tim Crompton). There were 2 Trouble videos because the original video featuring the sinister imagery and tying up was deemed too dark for the U.S. My favourite song changes depending on my mood but I am huge fan of Politik and Such a Rush.

April 23, 2009 - submitted by aimee, United States of America

Q. I am grieving the death of my Grandfather and my boyfriend thinks I'm wasting my time basically. My libido with him sux and I'm being completely hot and cold... in response to his attitude. I know he is being insincere, but I still want to apologize for being so vacant these past few days. and I hope we go back to how we always have been.

The Oracle replies:

Why should you apologize? If you want my honest opinion, and I assume you do, he's being selfish. You are in mourning and need time to grieve your loss. He should respect that and act accordingly by giving you all the time, space and support that you need right now. It's my belief that he's the one that should be apologizing and if he needs help with that, give him my link and let him ask away.

Artists have been doing live cover songs for ages. Sometimes the results kick pure ass like newcomer Melanie Fiona’s cover of Kanye West’s Heartless and Jesse McCartney’s cover of the T-Pain pick up song Buy You A Drink. And other times, it falls a little short. Sadly, this is the case with Lady GaGa’s cover of Coldplay’s hit single Viva La Vida.

During Radio 1’s Live Lounge, GaGa took to her keyboard to tackle the song. GaGa didn’t seem to be her 'epic' self while performing the song; she flubbed several lyrics and her high notes were rather scratchy. Now, some say that GaGa has the voice to pull this off so this should have been a complete win but this one has to be marked as a FAIL.

In case you missed it or should you want to put yourself through it again, listen to the butchery at the Coldplay forum here and add your comments! [thanks BrummieTerra & cold_love23]

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

April 22, 2009 - submitted by TIm, United States of America

Q. Could you give me some insight into the title I Bloom Blaum?

The Oracle replies:

I can Tim, yes. The day after Coldplay played a gig in Iceland; there was a review in a local paper. Chris thought it said I Bloom Blaum and asked a friend what it meant. He said it meant 'the blue people' but in fact the paper hadn't said I Bloom Blaum at all that's just what Chris remembered it as. So I Bloom Blaum doesn't mean anything! FYI: Simon Pegg told Chris to call the song that.

April 22, 2009 - submitted by Taylor, United Kingdom

Q. Oracle, Coldplay.com has just announced their nominations for three Ivor awards. That's fantastic, but why did you not mention that The Escapist was nominated for best original film score? Seeing as how Coldplay contributed to it, certainly you'd tell us?

The Oracle replies:

A film's musical score is not the same as the soundtrack. Coldplay contributed to the soundtrack but not to the film's original score.

April 22, 2009 - submitted by Corey, United Kingdom

Q. I have been told that The Scientist was written in dedication to one of Chris Martin's girlfriends who died.

The Oracle replies:

Nope, a friend of the band who had broken up with his girlfriend inspired it.