More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2700 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

July 5, 2012 - submitted by Meagan, United States of America

Q. Hi Oracle! I was at the concert in Charlotte yesterday (3rd) and it was absolutely fantastic! I wanted to ask, when Chris messed up during Us Against the World, what happened? I wasn't close enough to see and didn't hear anything go wrong. Again, such a great show and I can't wait to see you all again. :)

The Oracle replies:

You can watch it here. As you will see around the 1'45 it wasn't as bad as Chris seemed to think - I'm not even sure why he stopped. I LOVE this song though so it was a nice excuse to watch it on a Thursday afternoon.

July 5, 2012 - submitted by Krizzia, Puerto Rico

Q. Today I saw the entire Howard Stern interview with Chris. He put this oil down his throat so he could be able to hit the high notes. He didn't put it on the skin, he put it inside his mouth, so I don't think it was Tiger Balm. Could you tell me what it is?

The Oracle replies:

I've finally seen that too (it was very long) and I was mistaken. Chris DOES use Tiger Balm on the exterior for his throat but this is something he rubs on the interior. All he says in the interview is that it's oil to help him sing - I've no idea what the oil is, sorry.

July 5, 2012 - submitted by Stephanie L, Canada

Q. Hi, I was wondering why all of the sudden Chris Martin gives shout outs to bands... I stumbled apon this video and was wondering if it had any relevance to the One Direction song. If so, to be honest it doesn't sound like the tune at all! Thanks and lots of love from Scarborough, Canada !!

The Oracle replies:

Giving a shout out to someone - whether that's a someone in the audience, a someone who has recently died or a someone who hails from that local area - it doesn't mean it's intended to be a cover version. It's just a nod. In this case I understand that a member of aforementioned boy band was in attendance so yes, it was relevant to the song he chose to quote from. He didn't sing it; he said the title of the song. It's not all of a sudden by the way, Chris has been acknowledging people for over a decade!

July 4, 2012 - submitted by Radhika, India

Q. Hey Oracle! So I read Roadie #42's blog the other day where he says that Chris throws the guitar into the air. So does this guitar go to the audience or do one of the crew members, well, catch it? Thanks :)

The Oracle replies:

It sort of depends where it lands but generally as it's on the stage, a crew member (Hoppy most likely) removes it (and then probably has to repair it).

July 4, 2012 - submitted by Becky, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle, Just one more question, I completly went mental with the get up for the Coldplay 4th June concert at the Emirates. I painted my face white, put glitter on my face and hair, wrote "COLDPLAY" across my cheeks, MYLO XYLOTO on my forehead and drew all of the little symbols from the album on my face, as well as writing the band's names up my arms. Well we got there at around 6:00A.M. from Cornwall and this "hippie" looking woman came over and asked if she could take my picture. I was just wondering if she was one of the staff? Thanks:)

The Oracle replies:

She may have been a member of staff employed by the venue but she's not part of our crew/team.

July 4, 2012 - submitted by Kellen, United States of America

Q. Greetings from Texas, sir Oracle. I was at the first Houston show, on the 25th, and it was fantastic. The band always puts on a great show, and I know that because I went to their last show in Houston in 2009, and I've watched just about every filmed concert they've done. If you can't tell, I kind of love Coldplay....a lot. Anyway, I had arrived at the concert venue quite early with a friend, and were waiting outside the doors alone (we were really, REALLY early) when Chris Martin strolls up to the door. He looked busy, so I didn't bother him, but as he walked away from me, I yelled "Chris, I love you!" rather loud. He turned around and said "I love you too man, I'll see you inside." That was probably the best moment of my life, because he's really important to me. Coldplay has gotten me through a lot of troublesome times over the years, and my question to you, is, how could I let them know how much I really love them, and how important they are, and their music is to me?

The Oracle replies:

I think by saying "I love you" to Chris you already have! Plus you did when you bought a ticket to their show. They so far only have one official filmed concert unless you mean YouTube clips...

July 3, 2012 - submitted by Cameron F, United States of America

Q. I've heard that the song Yellow was influenced in some part by the novel Great Gatsby. I'm torn, because I've read that Chris was inspired by a meteor shower, but at a recent concert, the yellow lights faded to a single green light, just like in the book.

The Oracle replies:

I don't know where you heard it was influenced by The Great Gatsby, but it wasn't. The story involves Chris singing in the style of Neil Young during their recording session after strumming some chords that he liked. Speaking of The Great Gatsby, Gatz is a new show that features an enactment of the novel in its entirety - 6 hours of performance! One of the actors, Scott Shepherd, knows the entire book off by heart. Incredible.

July 3, 2012 - submitted by Miguel, Philippines

Q. Hey Oracle, I was watching Coldplay live videos of Yellow during their Mylo Xyloto tour on youtube recently, and I was wondering if they stopped using the yellow balls they release during the song. If so are they going to use them again? Much thanks! And I'm seeing them in Toronto in July.

The Oracle replies:

You will have balloons don't worry. They aren't yellow and they aren't released during Yellow. They appear during... actually, I won't spoil it for you!

July 3, 2012 - submitted by Dylan, United States of America

Q. Hi Oracle! Chris's song on the Flaming Lips' collaborative album was incredible! I bought the limited LP for Record Store Day but just discovered a CD and digital version are being released of the album. Chris's song was on the record; however, it's not on the iTunes or CD version - it was replaced by a song by Aaron Behrens. Why so? It's a shame! Thanks so much, Dylan

The Oracle replies:

The CD and digital releases of The Flaming Lips and Heady Fwends don't include I Don't Want You to Die (featuring Chris). My first reaction was wondering if it was a record label issue. I remember Polygram removed a Tracy Bonham track from the second Soulwax album. It could be that or maybe it was only ever intended to be part of the vinyl package. Sounds about right.

July 2, 2012 - submitted by Krizzia, Puerto Rico

Q. All right. I know that many people want this dream, but I really wanna be a singer/actress. The thing is, where I live, there really aren't many opportunities and well my parents don't support my dream. They think it's stupid. So I just wanted to ask if you guys had the same problems or if you have any advice you can give me.

The Oracle replies:

Many people seem to frown on certain dreams if they involve entertainment but if it was a profession such as medicine, it would be a different response.

This is YOUR dream, not your parents' but I am hoping this is your dream because you recognize your potential and talent to achieve it. I'm all for people going for their goals and proving themselves right but it is a tough industry and will involve a lot of hard work and sacrifice. You may experience rejection and struggle to get where you want but if you're determined and have the right skills, keep going and don't give up. The band had the support of their parents so I can't really relate any wisdom from their point of view. Chris also had the support of Phil's Mum who spotted his talent and had belief from the very start.

July 2, 2012 - submitted by R Brown, United States of America

Q. I will be taking my son to see his first Coldplay concert in Atlanta, Georgia on July 2nd. He is 14 and plays the piano. He has practiced and practiced the song Postcards From Far Away and is hoping to hear Chris play it on the piano at the concert. Do you think Chris will?

The Oracle replies:

As you only sent this on the 2nd and it is the 2nd, you'll be getting ready for the show soon I suppose. If you see this before you go at least you can break the news gently that no, I do not think Chris will play it. In fact, I know he won't be playing it - sorry!

July 2, 2012 - submitted by Kane, Canada

Q. Dear Oracle, Has the band ever considered doing an acoustic album? Because I've been listening to acoustic versions of their songs on YouTube and they're just beautiful. Thanks and hope you answer!

The Oracle replies:

The band did consider doing an acoustic album as it goes. In fact, before Mylo Xyloto was written and recorded, album five was intended to be an acoustic affair. Have you heard this by the way?

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA (5-6 July 2012):

Photos courtesy of radio1045.com (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2700 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

June 27, 2012 - submitted by Martin, Costa Rica

Q. Hello dear Oracle, I have seen interviews of Chris and Jonny, Will and Guy, etc... but never seen Will and Jonny together in any interview. Why is that? Also, is that true that one was the marriage best man of the other? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

The usual set up is Chris / Jonny & Will / Guy but for no sinister reason. It's just the dynamics of those pairings work really well in an interview situation and are usually convenient. There are video examples of a different formation here,

June 27, 2012 - submitted by GP, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, I hope to find you well. I'm sorry if this has been asked before, but I wanted some clarification. I was a bit confused on the background on a few songs. What I mean is, I thought that Chris Martin wrote Green Eyes for his beloved Gwenyth... however I read somewhere that it was written for/about Jonny Buckland? Was Moses for Gwenyth as well for their child? Thank you for your time, and greetings to you and to Coldplay from the lone star state :)

The Oracle replies:

Green Eyes was partly written about Jonny but not totally - Chris hadn't even met Gwyneth when he wrote it. Moses was not written for their child either; the song came first.

June 26, 2012 - submitted by Gaston, Argentina

Q. Hey Oracle: I know Coldplay would never do this but I was watching this video and the song seems to be exactly as the studio version. Were they doing lip-syncing? Or the one who uploaded the video put the studio version over this video? Please answer me! Greetings from Argentina

The Oracle replies:

It's not unusual for musicians to mime on U.K television (especially back then on this particular programme) but I assure you the vocals are live - Coldplay don't lip synch. I think that's a case of the video not being in perfect time.

June 26, 2012 - submitted by Bethany, United Kingdom

Q. Hello Oracle! I was wondering if you have any baby pictures of the band as we are doing Quizzes in class and I would think it would be nice if at least one member of Coldplay could be in the baby pictures round? Thank you! The show back at the start of June was amazing! Beth

The Oracle replies:

Nope, that's far too cheesy that even I might struggle with the images! I've never seen a photo of Thom Yorke, Bono, KOL, Tom Waits or indeed feel a need to see any of the artists I love as infants. Sorry! Please don't let any Coldplay baby photos materialize! Agggghhhhh!

June 26, 2012 - submitted by Amber, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle, so I went to the Coldplay concert in Dallas, Tx on the 23rd. I love Coldplay, I'm one of their biggest fans and I took video the entire time of the show. I fell in love with Coldplay all over again. It was my first Coldplay concert ever! Sadly enough I lost my memory card, shortly after the concert. I was crying alot. I'm from El Paso, Tx so I can't go back and search for it. Is there anything you can possibly do to help me out? All my videos and pictures from the concert were on it :( it would mean the world to me. love Amber

The Oracle replies:

Oh bummer! That's awful; only happened to me once but I got it returned (a film though - not a card, not sure how you lose one of those). Get yourself on a fan forum of some sort - coldplaying.com, tumblr et al to rediscover lost moments if you can.

June 26, 2012 - submitted by M L G, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle, I went to see the tour at the Ricoh Arena and then a week later I had a Coldplay crew member come in to my work (in a t shirt which said 'local crew member Coldplay' if you wondered how I knew. I was just wondering how do you come to be employees of Coldplay? Is it just by luck or do they actually have a recruitment process?

The Oracle replies:

If it says "local crew" the word "local" means they are working on that show but nothing further in the tour. It's not luck per se; we don't advertise as such. Crew and all tour personnel are usually already involved in the live circuit and know what they're doing as it's an enormous task to put a show on from city to city.

There's no easy way to suddenly become a crew member on a tour of this size. If you see someone at a stadium in a t-shirt such as you described, it may be one of the venue's staff rather than the band's.

June 25, 2012 - submitted by Rose, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, I went to the second Manchester gig (which was amazing!!), and at the end was lucky enough to get one of the band's guitar picks when a roadie threw it off stage. I was wondering whose it was - do you have any idea which of the band uses yellow .73mm Dunlop picks? Thanks :)

The Oracle replies:

I do, thanks to Matt McGinn & Hoppy who both confirmed that what you have in your possession is one of Guy's picks.

June 25, 2012 - submitted by Davis McCutcheon, United States of America

Q. Hi Oracle, I submitted a question last night after the Dallas show (23) and I've felt bad ever since because I know I asked for a tall personal order. If you didn't read my question, I asked if you could find out what Chris said (maybe?) to a group of dancing kids in front of him on the 23rd in Dallas. Well, I've rewritten my question: if you could possibly guess as to what he said here around 1:07, or tell me if this is something he's said at past shows, I'd appreciate it tremendously- you truly have no idea how much it would mean! Again, the show was brilliant! Thanks Oracle!

The Oracle replies:

Yes, I did get the other Q but hadn't got around to answering because we have

Team Oracle on Fridays. I can't make out what he says I'm afraid (sounds like something about 3 boys looking straight at...). I can tell you that it's not a change I've heard before and Chris certainly didn't say the same the night before. I'm sorry that it doesn't confirm your hopes that he was saying something to you* but it sounds like he could have been!

June 21, 2012 - submitted by Raquel, United States of America

Q. Greetings from Miami Florida, Oracle! Like many fans I was ecstatic when I read Coldplay got themselves a tumblr! It's seriously the best thing since sliced bread! So who exactly would be running the blog?

The Oracle replies:

Tumblr will be much like twitter, facebook and Coldplay.com in that Anchorman will oversee it. Roadie #42, the band including Phil and sources close to the band will all contribute. You will too if your art is reblogged.

June 21, 2012 - submitted by Aude, Monaco

Q. Hi Oracle ! I was wondering if the guys play "Drawsomething" (on iphone and android) ? I'm playing with "GuyBerryman", is he the real or just a fake ? Thaaaanks :) Aude

The Oracle replies:

You are definitely NOT playing it with our Guy Berryman! If the band are drawing something they won't be using their real names and would probably just play against their close friends and family otherwise they'd possibly have a million turns to take!

June 21, 2012 - submitted by Anna, United States of America

Q. Hi, the oh so lovely Oracle! I'm going to one of Coldplay's upcoming U.S. shows... but I'm incredibly sad. It's just that my seat is all the way in the back of the arena and I'm surely not going to see much from back there. Chris and the rest of the band might just appear as tiny little moving dots. That's how far back my seat is! So, I'm hoping to just sneak in towards the front of the arena (not all the way to the front, just close enough--like the middle section). I'm just wondering if you think it would be a good idea? I don't want to get caught (and considering it's going to be a huge crowd, I don't think I will--but there is always the chance of getting caught anyways), but I might feel guilty afterwards because that was someone else's seat. However, I don't think people would care much. But do you think it's right to sneak in towards the front? Do you guys frown upon that? It's just this is my first concert and I want to enjoy it and be able to watch my favorite band up close (not to mention, I have a massive crush on Chris so this would be the only chance I'd get to see him). I'm not explaining this all too well, but hopefully you will be able to understand what I am trying to say. P.S. I have this camera (a Pansonic Lumix to be exact... the ones with lenses, not the smaller ones), and I was wondering if I would be able to bring that to the concert?

The Oracle replies:

Given I'm English and of a certain age, I can't condone going where you shouldn't be. Sneaking further forward would fill me with the dread of being caught - I'm no good at breaking the rules. Now, I do understand as I have been on the back few rows at many concerts but I still had amazing times. The thing with the current Coldplay show is, it doesn't matter where you are sat. You're going to get the most amazing experience because of the Xylobands, fireworks, X stage, C stage and the amazing screens showing close-ups of the band throughout. Not to mention the music!

June 20, 2012 - submitted by Danny, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle. So I seen MX tour at Manchester, Etihad... Which was fantastic - obviously, and managed to grab me some MX confetti. When I got it home I posed the question, what do these shapes mean? where do they come from? who came up with them? Can you enlighten me with your knowledge? Thanks. Dan

The Oracle replies:

The confetti is based on the symbols that appear in the Mylo Xyloto artwork.

June 20, 2012 - submitted by Patricia, United States of America

Q. Dear epic Oracle, This video when Chris was signing his dollar bill, he asked if that was legal. I asked my dad if it was and he said it was illegal. So does that mean the whole Robin Hood tax thing is illegal? I'm glad that people want to make a difference but as Chris asked, "You sure this is legal?" Love from New Jersey, Patricia

The Oracle replies:

The Robin Hood Tax is legal (obviously) but defacing the dollar bill - or indeed currency in many countries including the U.K - is illegal. It's symbolic to the campaign. Somebody really should tell magicians...

June 19, 2012 - submitted by Esmeralda, United States of America

Q. Hi Oracle! I was wondering if the band is always this funny when they are among themselves like in this video. Thank you.

The Oracle replies:

I have to admit that they are still this funny and do have a laugh in the studio and on tour. They're not making little films out of it but their sense of humour lives on! It was great to see that video after such a long time. That was filmed TEN years ago!

June 19, 2012 - submitted by Sophie, United Kingdom

Q. Do you know when the DVD of the Mylo Xyloto Emirates shows will be released?

The Oracle replies:

Er, nobody said there is going to be a DVD from the Emirates shows so I don't know where you got that from. Let's nip that rumour in the bud. There is going to be a DVD but it's not isolated to London. If you see people filming the gigs, don't forget that you're seeing the live footage on huge screens and that's how they do that - with cameras.

June 19, 2012 - submitted by Joe, United Kingdom

Q. My girlfriend and I have booked tickets to see Coldplay and we can't wait! However, the tickets we have are 'obstructed view', I know it is a 360 degree stage but I was wondering, in your previous experience, how obstructed is the view exactly as we've wanted to see the band live for so long and hope we don't have bad seats! Please help. Joe

The Oracle replies:

I'm afraid I can't comment without knowing whereabouts you are but please don't get back in touch with that info as I have nothing to do with seating at all so won't be able to help. Perhaps try the venue to see if they have a seating plan for the show up. All I can tell you is that you may have a side of stage view which I always find intriguing to watch everything going on. I'm not sure there's such a thing as bad seats though. Oh, and it's not a 360 degree stage so you definitely won't be sat behind the band.

June 18, 2012 - submitted by Sarah, United Kingdom

Q. Hello! I found this flyer online. I know Coldplay and Muse used to be friends and obviously they're both very busy at the moment, but in the future do you think they would ever play a gig together again? They're my favourite bands of all time and think it would be so amazing! Hope you're having a great day, Oracle

The Oracle replies:

Coldplay supported Muse (as you can see in that flyer) but that was back in 2000! They have both reached the same level in terms of stadium tours and it would be very difficult - nay impossible - to get both sets of productions into one show. They may share the same stage at event or festival but they won't tour together, no. FYI Dom was at the Emirates show in London on the second night. Speaking of production, may I just take a moment... The tragic events at the Radiohead concert this weekend claimed the life of their drum tech, Scott Johnson. My thoughts go out to his family.

June 18, 2012 - submitted by Carly, United Kingdom

Q. Pleading for your help! At Manchester City stadium on the 09/06/12 my extremely romantic (boyfriend at the time) proposed to me during my favourite song, yellow. We were standing at the front, to the left hand side of the stage. I know several people filmed this, but unfortunately in all the excitement we forgot to get anyone's names to get hold of the footage. Could you please help by posting this, in the hope the people who filmed our lovely moment will post it! Please help. Carly. X

The Oracle replies:

Congratulations. You're better posting this query on the Coldplaying fan site's forums to be honest...

June 18, 2012 - submitted by Anna Rose, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, I am so stressed. I'm going to see Coldplay next month (WOOO SO EXCITED!) with two of my friends. And as you can see I am very excited! I've actually been waiting for this concert for about 5 years, since when I first started listening to them when I was 11. Coldplay is more than just a band to me, they have gotten me through so many hard times and bad situations. So this concert for me is more than just a concert, it is a sort of closure. It's the end of all the bad things that happened before and looking forward to the future. Unfortunately, I don't think my friends understand this. I was talking to them the other day, and I want to be at the doors, run in, front row, like that perfect concert experience that I've yet to have! But they were like, no, let's pregame and tailgate! As you can figure I'm only 16, and I'm not against drinking or anything but seriously? This is a once in a lifetime experience possibly, and I want to do it my way. What should I do, Oracle? Do I seperate from my friends and make my own experience? Or should I just go with the flow (something that's really difficult for a control freak like myself)? Please help, I want this to be good but now I'm just stressing and worrying and being negative :( Thank you for your help, Anna Rose

The Oracle replies:

Do it your way but have a designated meeting point for after the show. Make sure you are all prepared with charged up phones and know what the plan is it too. I once took someone to a show who had no phone battery and she went to the bathroom leaving me with her bag, coat and purse. I didn't see her again. She hadn't paid attention to the meeting point that we had arranged in case something happened so I stood there waiting and missed my public transport home. When thousands of people are leaving a stadium at the same time, it can get quite hairy so please make sure you all meet & get home safely.

New photos of Coldplay performing at the American Airlines Arena, Miami, FL (29th June 2012):

Photos courtesy of Miami New Times

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

10 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2700 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

June 14, 2012 - submitted by Melina, Mexico

Q. Is this the What If official video? Because the guy who is playing the piano doesn't look like Chris. Thanks! P.S. Hope you come to Mexico soon!

The Oracle replies:

I've never seen that video before and while 7,634,258 is an impressive number of views, it's nothing to do with us. Not only is the guy not Chris but there wasn't an official video for What If made.

June 14, 2012 - submitted by Zatch, Canada

Q. Hey Oracle, when Jonny said today in the live chat that "we know roughly when we want to start making the next record...", does this confirm a sixth studio album? Thanks from Canada!

The Oracle replies:

Any and everything is subject to change so it's far too early to speculate. I recall Chris saying that he'd written a song (Spanish Rain /Don Quixote) that would be a b-side for the next album yet it's never been recorded and isn't likely to be.

June 14, 2012 - submitted by Matts, Finland

Q. Dear Oracle, I'm coming to Stockholm show in August and we have decided with my friends that we are getting to the front row. As I was looking the photos from the tour I was wondering which would be the best place to enjoy the show. Closest to the main stage or somewhere alongside the 'catwalk'? Best regards, Matts

The Oracle replies:

I would certainly suggest along the catwalk or around the X Stage if you want a great view up close and personal. I'm a bit too old for all that standing though. Make sure you have plenty of water because even if the weather isn't warm* you may feel overcome by the heat of the crowds. * It may be wise to start offering up dances to the sun Gods as rain has been following the band on the stadium tour thus far!

June 14, 2012 - submitted by Rocio, Spain

Q. Hi Oracle! I was in Madrid last 20th of May, in that amazing concert that it was one of the best thing I've ever done!!! And at the end of Fix You Chris said: "Happy Birthday (someone).." Who's that someone??

The Oracle replies:

He said "Happy Birthday Mama Julia" - his wife's Spanish "mama" with whom she lived in Spain with as a teenager.

June 13, 2012 - submitted by Sarah, United Kingdom

Q. Hello, I am trying to find a Man's T-shirt for the 2005 tour, the December 16th date at Earl's Court was the first Coldplay concert my then boyfriend and I went to, we are now married with two children and I have been searching to try to find him a t-shirt from that tour but with no luck, please can you help me? Thank you

The Oracle replies:

Well, we don't really sell tees from tours gone by - maybe we should? I don't know how many are still available but I found this for you. Hope it helps.

June 13, 2012 - submitted by Sarah, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, My wristband just lit up all by its self, and it's still on now. Could you shed some light [bad pun] on this mystery? Thanks Sarah

The Oracle replies:

Well, I wish I could tell you some magical explanation or entice you down a fantasy road but in fact, it's not a strange phenomenon. There must be a glitch as that's not supposed to happen. I am hearing reports from all over that Xylobands are lighting up. My friend awoke at 4 a.m on Monday morning with hers flashing (she was delighted!) and indeed mine decided to light up 48 hours after a show. One lady's lit up in Wales followed by her son's... Spooky.

June 13, 2012 - submitted by Marielle, Canada

Q. Hello Oracle! Ive notice that some fans have more than one Xyloband on at a time. Is there a limit of how much you can have, do you to pay for the extra ones?

The Oracle replies:

I'm glad you brought this up. I went to the Emirates on Friday and Saturday nights. At the second show during Hurts Like Heaven I remembered that my Xyloband from the previous night was still in my possession and when I checked, there it was flashing away so I put it on. I was wearing two but had only taken one per show. I know other fans who have been to several shows wear their Xylobands from all gigs so it is hopefully that reason you see multiple ones adorning arms. We hand Xylobands out on the way in (ONE per person) but they are not included in the ticket price so if you don't get one, it may be down to luck, timing or the unforgivable... If anyone reading this has taken more than one on the way in to a show and seen people without - then shame on you if you did not give a Xyloband up to another fan in need. #justsaying. Please be fair and please share.

June 12, 2012 - submitted by Rachael, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle. I noticed that the drum machine Will uses during Up In Flames has quite a noticable gap between when the pad is hit and when the sound is emitted. How difficult does this make things for him? How does he overcome these difficulties? Thanks. Love, Rachael P.S. The second Ethiad show was brilliant. So good to see Warning Sign coming back! One of my favourites.

The Oracle replies:

Listening to soundchecks in stadiums is amazing because when they are empty the sound literally bounces off everything. Dan Green has to do an incredible job of working out variables to gauge what the difference will be when that stadium is full of several thousands of people. There are moments like the aforementioned drum machine where you can see/hear the latency (for that is its name). It's a factor many performers learn how to deal with. I also notice at the back of some large venues the screen appear to be showing everything out of synch but that again is the distance and time it takes for sound to travel making it look out of time. Pretty tricky to deal with but luckily the guys have an amazing sound system in place and their in-ear monitors will be geared to cope as much as possible.

June 12, 2012 - submitted by Bryan, United Kingdom

Q. I have a complaint to make about a recent Coldplay concert I went to at the emirates in London on 2nd June 2012! I payed £50 for a ticket and believe that this amount was not in my opinion acceptable! Basically the boys blew my mind and I feel the ticket should of cost more for the best night of my life! Can I please send you a further amount of money to show my appreciation? Brilliant! Bloody brilliant!

The Oracle replies:

Bryan, I think I love you. What an amazing thing to read on a damp, grey, miserable Tuesday in June (June and it's STILL raining!!) I suppose you could always save the extra money for when the #Coldplayfilm arrives? Or donate it to a charity of your choice. I agree though, it's worth every penny and more.

June 12, 2012 - submitted by Bernie, United States of America

Q. Why is it that the set list stays almost exactly the same the entire tour? It's a great set regardless but doesn't the band get tired of playing the same songs in the same order night after night? First time asking a question to the almighty Oracle so fingers crossed for a response!

The Oracle replies:

The production of a show can be very complicated and take a lot of time to prepare to get it perfect. This show particularly doesn't lend itself to much change. I am aware of a very few number acts who change their set during a tour so it isn't unusual not to - it's more usual in fact. A few songs have been replaced and moved around since the festivals last year and the latter end of the year's dates. The band buzz so much off playing the songs live to a different crowd every night that no, they don't get bored.

June 11, 2012 - submitted by Carolina, Mexico

Q. Hello, I was just watching this photo, are the two men standing alongside of the stage extension floating? There is one with an orange vest and another one all in black, at the left side of the runway... Greetings from Mexico!

The Oracle replies:

I asked Roadie #42 why those gents appear to have no legs. He informed me that "the crowd shots are made up of between 20 and 50 individual photos all stitched together. Occasionally on the joins, things get a bit odd. The best was the fella on the front row with three eyes, but the less said about that, the better..." A p.s. followed. "Didn't Lawnmower Death have an album called Got No Legs? Don't Come Running To Me..."? Not quite. Lawnmower Deth did record a track called Got No Legs? Don't Come Crawling to Me though.

June 11, 2012 - submitted by Meagan, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, who is the guy that has been holding signs in the front row of 5 different panoramas?? Do the band know him? He must be so lucky to get to go to so many Coldplay shows!

The Oracle replies:

No, we don't know him. One of his signs said "I follow you" and as you can see, he does indeed! He has certainly put the effort in getting there early enough to get to the front too! Maybe he will write to me and reveal his identity...

June 7, 2012 - submitted by James, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, I was suprised/disappointed when Coldplay were not at the Diamond Jubilee concert, because Chris and Gary Barlow are friends and Coldplay were in London at the time, so was it that Coldplay were never invited to perform or they were and refused? Thanks

The Oracle replies:

Yes, Coldplay were in London at the time but performing their 3rd and final London show at the Emirates Stadium - that Gary Barlow attended on the first night. They were asked to but as you now know, they were unable to.

June 7, 2012 - submitted by Michael, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Guys Would really appreciate your help! What was the attendance at Coldplay's gig on the 4th of June at the Emirates? I would estimate it between 55,000-70,000 could that be right? Couldn't find information anywhere so would be desperate for an answer. Cheers By the way: That gig was the BEST thing I've ever been to :) !!!

The Oracle replies:

Just me I'm afraid Michael. I'm pretty sure it was just under 60,000. The huge stage set, runway and rigs take away a section of the stadium so even with the standing capacity on the pitch, it doesn't quite make it back up to the 60,361 it is on match days.

June 7, 2012 - submitted by Gabriela, Paraguay

Q. Hi Oracle! I was wondering what do you feel about the Princess of China video? It seems to be a lot of mixed emotions about it. Personally I can't find the connection between the video and the song's lyrics. Also I've been reading that a lot of people are questioning the fact that there are Ninjas in the video, which are originally from Japan so.. I guess there's no relevance in their appearance. Anyhow, hope you're doing well and I'll wait for a possible answer! Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

Videos aren't necessarily a literal visual translation of the audio. They may sometimes take a line or a theme but it's not set in stone. I think the PoC video is great by the way - like a short film. Looks very classy and I've always loved the song.

June 6, 2012 - submitted by Peter, United States of America

Q. Hello! I hope you're all excited about your upcoming trip to Boston we're certainly excited to have you here! I've been living in Boston (as a native of Ireland) for about 15 years, and it's a fantastic city. I own and operate an outdoor fitness company (boot camp), and I would welcome the opportunity to train you all while visiting here. I know too well that life on the road can be grueling, and can take its toll. The opportunities for exercise can be slim, and eating habits can be difficult to manage too. It would not only be a terrific way for you to get some daily or weekly exercise and fresh air, but we could also use it as a fun way to see the city and its sights while getting a great workout! Please let me know what questions I can answer for you. if you like, I'd be happy to provide you with a sample workout, so that you don't have to commit to too many workouts in advance! Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from you! Peter.

The Oracle replies:

You may be surprised to learn that exercise opportunities are not slim and eating habits are not difficult because the band travel with their own personal trainer who puts them through their paces every day and their tour caterer provides the most amazing fresh, healthy, balanced meals and snacks.

Thanks for the offer but it's all covered. As the band tour for so long, their health is so important that exercise and nutrition is very much a part of that schedule.

June 6, 2012 - submitted by Aimee, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, I'm really enjoying R42's HD panoramas of the crowds from Emirates' and other shows. All those smiling, happy people anticipating a stellar night! Tell me, how did this tradition start? I've seen OK Go and MGMT in the past year, and they take pics of their audiences too! Which band kicked it off? Thanks! x

The Oracle replies:

Many artists have been taking photos of their audiences for years. Digital technology has improved so much that in recent times sporting events and groups such as U2 & Take That have taken 360 degree shots of the crowd where you can zoom in and tag yourself for example. After the first night photo that Roadie #42 took, we loved it so much that it was decided to do one every night from the same point. Typically I'm not in my seat when I click to zoom. It's a great interactive tool but as for the first band to do it... I don't actually know but it wasn't OK Go or MGMT.

June 6, 2012 - submitted by Abby, Philippines

Q. Dear Oracle, In Coldplay End of Decade Clearout Sale, how and when did Jonny get into a neck brace? I'm just wondering. Thanks again. Abby

The Oracle replies:

That's not Jonny; it's Will. It's just a foam neck collar for characterisation purposes only.

May 31, 2012 - submitted by Gherardo, Italy

Q. Helloo! Why not make a DVD at the end of Mylo Xyloto Tour? Like Live 2003!

It would be great to see how the band has changed, and what kind of show has created. You should just do it, also for Xylobands !! They are f*****g incredible.

The Oracle replies:

I have no idea why, but every single question sent in by Italian fans this week (there have been a few) have all had swearing them! I have edited by inserting asterisks. Anyway, to answer your request, you're a little behind the news amico. There IS going to be a live film from the MX tour. We haven't got any details to reveal to you just yet apart from a film is coming. Hoorah!

May 31, 2012 - submitted by Mollie, United Kingdom

Q. Hey Oracle, I saw THIS on the news section and panicked- Final UK stadium tour tickets released 29 May 2012, 2:58 pm. Last chance to buy tickets for the upcoming shows. Does that mean this one is the final tour?!?!?!? or is it just our last chance to buy tickets?

The Oracle replies:

Fear not Mollie, it just means your last chance to buy tickets. It's not their final tour.

May 31, 2012 - submitted by Danial, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle, I was wondering if on the stadium tour do we get a choice of what colour wristband we are given or are they allocated ? p.s. cant wait for Sunderland!

from Danial.

The Oracle replies:

The tour may be different (I don't know about that at all) but I'd say it'd be better to go along with what my mother used to say, "you get what you're given", rather than try and ask for a particular one.

May 31, 2012 - submitted by Sarah, United Kingdom

Q. Hello O Mighty Oracle, I'm going to the Emirates concert on the 2nd, but was wondering if Anchorman will be taking panoramas of all three London shows or just the one on the 1st? Very excited!

The Oracle replies:

It's not Anchorman who takes the photos. He posts them but it's Roadie #42 who snaps them. A panoramic shot will be taken before every show starts so there will be 3 of each of the Emirates.

May 30, 2012 - submitted by Tony, United Kingdom

Q. Hi,Oracle. I want to ask that which song Chris Martin sings here? I can't know the name of this funny song. Thanks.

The Oracle replies:

It has no name as it's not anything. It's just an on the spot "jam" to sing happy birthday to Jonny. Chris is making it up as he goes along. Good find so thanks for sending it!

May 30, 2012 - submitted by Boyeon, France

Q. Hi Oracle! I'm totally nervous about the gig on this friday at Emirates Stadium. It's the very first concert to me, but something's a bit complicating. I just can't understand how and where should I queue... I carefully read all terms on my ticket, but the only thing i've recognized, is that my ticket belongs to Turnstilles R Clock End. Still, whatever I've noticed, there's so many direction of queue that I cannot choose one. In Short, HELP ME!

The Oracle replies:

There will be plenty of stewards to ask when you get there so don't worry - someone will point you in the right direction if you can't find the right sign.

May 30, 2012 - submitted by Tom, United Kingdom

Q. Hello Oracle, Last night, I was at the Coventry concert, and may I just say, the boys absolutely rocked it! What an awesome gig! After seeing some of the Oracle's questions about Nice not being a good crowd, I hope we were good enough for you! Thankyou guys very much, I would happily come and watch you again tonight! Love Tom

The Oracle replies:

Er, there was ONE question that I mentioned the Nice crowd and I didn't say they weren't a good crowd. I was there and they were great! All I said that Turin's crowd was apparently better. Last night you were "incredible" so said Chris via their twitter page.

May 30, 2012 - submitted by Christine, United Kingdom

Q. Hi! Coming along to The Emirates on Monday - worried about being able to catch last train home.... are timings such that we will be able to leave the stadium and get to Central London stations by 11.30?

The Oracle replies:

I have tried to answer this a few times so Anchorman very kindly helped me out and announced all the timings for the UK shows. Please refer to that and you will be able to work out your individual journey needs accordingly.

May 29, 2012 - submitted by Thomas, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle, I just watched the Hurts Like Heaven video from the European Stadiums (seeing them in Manchester on the 9th June) and noticed all the lasers. I was wondering, that with the stadiums being roofless, is there any problem with the lasers hitting low flying aircraft and such? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

That's a very good question Thomas and a subject I was talking about in detail last week in fact. Lasers obviously do come with certain risks so there are stringent safety rules and regulations in place - they can't beam over a certain height if there's a risk to aviation. The same goes for beaming below the heads of the audience to protect them also. The lasers are all perfectly harmless at our shows. Enjoy Manchester!

May 29, 2012 - submitted by Nathan, United Kingdom

Q. What's the chances of Politik being added to the playlist for tonight. Bring it on Coventry!!!!!

The Oracle replies:

Not a chance at all Nate - if I may call you that. Will replied to the question in the recent Twitter chat of why it's been dropped from the set and his response was, "To use a football analogy, it's played 10 seasons in a row and it needs a rest".

May 28, 2012 - submitted by Sarah, Switzerland

Q. Dear Oracle I have some really nice shots from yesterday's show in Zurich and want to share them with you and all the fans. But how? Love Sarah

The Oracle replies:

You can share them by uploading them to our Live Transmissions section on this very website. Look forward to seeing them!

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Capital FM Summertime Ball, Wembley Stadium, London (9th June 2012):

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2700 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

May 24, 2012 - submitted by Fokke, Switzerland

Q. Dear Oracle, Like yourself, I love the song What If from X&Y. I don't think they ever played this song live. Do you know why? I will go to to concert in Zurich this Saturday and obviously hope that you can influence the guys to put this on their playlist :-) Best regards from a Dutch guy in Switzerland.

The Oracle replies:

It was played during the Twisted Logic tour back in 2005 but it wasn't a permanent fixture on the setlist. Last December it reappeared, much to my delight, on the European leg of the tour after a lengthy hiatus.

May 24, 2012 - submitted by Christy, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle, I was just wondering if Coldplay are playing the Capital Summertime Ball before or after the Mylo show the same night?

The Oracle replies:

They'll be playing Wembley first and their own show will be as scheduled, so no changes there.

May 24, 2012 - submitted by Gemma, Denmark

Q. Dearest Oracle, I currently live in Denmark, and have been strongly considering going to Roskilde Festival, where Guy's secondary band, Apparatjik, will be performing. But then I checked the tour dates of Coldplay's tour, and I can see that the boys will be playing in America for nearly the whole duration of the festival, with an exception of the 7th of July. My question is; Will Guy be flying to Denmark to perform onstage with Jonas Bjerre & Magne Furuholmen, or will he not be onstage, whatsoever? Thanks (:

The Oracle replies:

I can see why it would look possible because of the 7th July being a non-show day but as the band will be in Philadelphia on the 6th and due in Washington on the 8th, the flight times and time zone changes would make it too much of a risk to take. I'd go as far to say it's (almost) impossible.

May 23, 2012 - submitted by Sheila, United States of America

Q. Hello, I've been poking around the Oracle section and have come across many questions that refer to Xylo-bands. Can you explain what they are? I'm going to a show in August and I want to at least partially know what to expect.Thank you (o:

The Oracle replies:

Xylobands are wristbands with LED lights that flash and light up during certain songs. They are handed out as you enter the venue and are activated by radio control. All you do is wear it like a bracelet and wait for the show to start.

May 23, 2012 - submitted by Rachel, United States of America

Q. I was reading Will's response to the twitter questions for #coldplaylive. Will said that his favorite opening act for them was Arcade Fire. I was wondering for which tour and dates that Arcade Fire was the opening act. I absolutely love Arcade Fire and Coldplay! I wish I could've seen them together.

The Oracle replies:

Technically he didn't actually say that they were the opening act; he said they'd had the pleasure of sharing the same bill at festivals. I know that doesn't exactly answer the question of who his favourite band they've toured with is.

May 23, 2012 - submitted by Simao, Portugal

Q. During the concert in Porto, on the 18th of May, when the band were playing Charlie Brown, Chris Martin says "(Jason?) I love you man." And "This is for ???".

You can see it in this video from 2:53. Could you please let me know what does he say, and who's Jason (or whoever's name he's saying)?

The Oracle replies:

Yes, he does say Jason. Jason is the guy who invented the Xylobands. After that he says, "This is for the person right at the back now".

May 22, 2012 - submitted by Ben, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, In Roadie 42's most recent article, he talked about how awesome the Hollywood Bowl was, and I was just curious if the guys have looked at performing at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado in the US, because it is a truly amazing venue. Thanks for your time, Ben

The Oracle replies:

They already have Ben. Back in 2003 they played there on the A Rush Of Blood To The Head tour. If you visit our archived Timeline, and click 2003, you will find a clip and blurb at 5th June.

May 22, 2012 - submitted by Aimee, Poland

Q. during European MX tour, concerts are every other day. I was wondering if guys comes home (I mean UK) or stays in European countries where they perform on the day off? Love, Aimee

The Oracle replies:

They were in Portugal the night before that show as it was the first of the European leg but they do come home in between the rest to be with their families.

May 22, 2012 - submitted by Irit, France

Q. I have Coldplay golden circle tickets to the Nice concert tonight. The tickets say to be there at 20h. What time should I get there to be as close to the stage as possible?

The Oracle replies:

I'm afraid the time you get there is entirely up to you. The golden circle may mean you could chance getting there later but to be honest I wouldn't leave it 'til 8pm. Coldplay should be on at 10 so you will be there in plenty of time if you get there at 8 but that won't be close to the stage as Rita Ora is on at 8 and Marina & the Diamonds at 8.45.

May 21, 2012 - submitted by Dhamar, Mexico

Q. Hey, dear Oracle! What's first? Ode to Deodorant or Safety EP? I'm confused, please reply! Greetings from all the members of the League of Latinamerican's Coldplayers! Thank you!

The Oracle replies:

Safety (on CD) came first in May 1998. Ode to Deodorant (on cassette) was recorded later in the same year and served as a second demo.

May 21, 2012 - submitted by Denise, United States of America

Q. Do the guys know they won three billboard awards last night? Congratulate them for me will you? thanks!

The Oracle replies:

They actually won four, but thanks for your thanks.

May 21, 2012 - submitted by Nicoletta, Italy

Q. Hi! I wrote here just because I couldn't (and I can't) wait to see Coldplay in Nice tomorrow. When Coldplay perform in a concert of a determined tour (for example Mylo Xyloto), do they play any song of the previous albums? I ask it because if they play songs like Clocks or Yellow tomorrow, I'll be the happiest girl in the world. Thank you so much!

The Oracle replies:

I too am going to Nice tomorrow and am pretty excited - thought not about the weather that is forecast. The rain seems to be following the tour! They always play a selection of songs and they are from all albums. I don't like giving away setlists in advance but as last night's is available online I'm not spoiling anything by telling you that you won't be disappointed Nicoletta.

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Olympic Stadium in Turin, Italy (24th May 2012):

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Paralympics Closing Ceremony [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

18 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion] [NEW!]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2700 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

May 17, 2012 - submitted by John, United Kingdom

Q. So unfair! I bought my tickets for Emirates concert in November taking a day off work to be on line at 9.00am to get best tickets. We have seen Coldplay many times and are massive fans. I wanted to take my teenage kids this time and were given ticket at the very back! Today - 17th May - better tickets are on sale! Have these good seats been held back so the ones at the back will sell first? If so, this is wholly unfair and seems wrong to penalise the genuine fans. It cannot be for the reason given to do with stage planning as the seats on sale today are not affected by the stage just on a lower level. Good seats should be sold on a first come first served basis, quite apart from the fact my tickets were paid for in November!

The Oracle replies:

I don't want to appear rude but it appears you didn't read the news piece that went along with the announcement of extra seats becoming available. The reasons and therefore the answer to your question lie within it.

May 17, 2012 - submitted by Oliver, Denmark

Q. Is it true that the Safety EP goes for £2000 because only 500 copies were ever made? Maybe you have the answer, Oracle? Thanks! Oliver

The Oracle replies:

It is true that only 500 copies were made and that does make the item very rare and therefore expensive. I have seen the Safety EP at various prices over the years, the most being £2500.

May 17, 2012 - submitted by Craig, United Kingdom

Q. Hi, Are the band playing the free concert in Glasgow George Square on the 8th of June?

The Oracle replies:

I'm not sure where you heard that but no, they're not. They're playing Sunderland the day before and London & Manchester the day after.

May 16, 2012 - submitted by James, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle: Just read Roadie #42 's latest blog and he said: "They're most definitely in the zone right now. There have been tinkerings, though with some possible setlist additions in soundchecks. One of the Viva album tracks that only got a rare live outing has had a workout. I really hope it makes it back into the setlist, it's one of my all time favourite Coldplay live tracks (particularly the ending when Jonny goes off into full on guitar hero territory)." Is it Yes and Chinese Sleep Chant?! If there is any chance of Chinese Sleep Chant at London I will be over the moon! Thanks

The Oracle replies:

I have been waiting for this question from the second the blog was published.

I don't want to spoil it because the song isn't actually in the set but may be as the dates go on. Yes was my favourite from Viva so we shall see if #42 and I have the same exquisite taste. I think it was only played once - or maybe twice due to the vocal being so very low. I really honestly have to say that I doubt Chinese Sleep Chant will be played on this tour though...

May 16, 2012 - submitted by Jack, United Kingdom

Q. Hello O.. Urgent question! I have a ticket for 1st of June, I am thinking about buying a second ticket for a friend... They are both pitch standing tickets, but the tickets says we should enter at different locations...mine is turnstile E and the other is L. we would be queuing for a long time to get to front row... but I don't want to queue separately. Can we both queue together at one entrance, or do we HAVE to stick to the designated entrance on our tickets? Many thanks.

The Oracle replies:

The reason you are given different entrances even for standing tickets is to alleviate the pressure at any one entry point rather than have a congested area. It spreads the queues out and is part of health & saftey measures. If all family, friends and acquaintances decided to just queue together and ignore their turnstile letter, it could lead to a surge in numbers. I have had to queue at a different entrance to the people I have travelled with (turned out I got in half and hour before them so was quite pleased) but we just had a pre-arranged meeting spot once inside. Of course, you could always phone each other once inside...

May 16, 2012 - submitted by Sofia, Portugal

Q. Hi! Is this Chris' handwriting? Thanks :) All my love for Coldplay, and Coldplay crew. Hugs from Portugal, waiting for may 18 in Porto :)

The Oracle replies:

Although the way that 'Chris' has been written is similar to the way that Chris writes it - in that the H and R are capitalized - I have to say that it's hard to say for certain. There are a lot of fakes around but as the guys sign a lot of autographs and theirs are not always neat, tidy or perfect.

If Chris wrote this, I can tell you that it written in haste let's put it that way!

May 15, 2012 - submitted by Karen, France

Q. Hello dear Oracle, I was wondering if the boys always rehearse a bit before each show. Thank you ! :)

The Oracle replies:

They rehearse before a tour plus there are intense production rehearsals to make sure all the lights, sounds, effects etc. work with the set and everything's running smoothly. They don't rehearse before each show though they sometimes pick up guitars in the dressing room and jam. There are of course soundchecks where they run through a song or two - if they attend. I've mentioned before that they're not always able to so the crew stand in for them. They always warm up vocally before every live performance though.

May 15, 2012 - submitted by Antonella, Argentina

Q. Hi Oracle! I was wondering, what song do you enjoy more when Coldplay plays it on stage? I think Politik is the most emotional and passionate. So, what do you think? Thanks for your time. We're waiting for you in Argentina!

The Oracle replies:

I totally agree. Ever since its first appearance it has remained my absolute favourite song in the set. I'm so sad to see it go and know that decision will not have been easy as it's one of Chris' favourites too.

May 15, 2012 - submitted by Ellen, United States of America

Q. What do the letters CK stand for??

The Oracle replies:

Car Kids; it was the name of a song recorded for the MX album. I first thought it eventually became Charlie Brown but as that name stuck from kicking around early during proceedings, it was a separate entity entirely.

May 14, 2012 - submitted by Jenn, United States of America

Q. Hi Oracle, Did the band ask the Beastie Boys for permission to cover their song at the Hollywood Bowl and Weanie Roast? Thanks! Jenn

The Oracle replies:

You don't need permission to cover a song if it's true to the original so no, they didn't. If anybody hasn't seen it yet, it's really worth watching.

May 14, 2012 - submitted by Hanna, United States of America

Q. Hey Oracle! Because I have nothing better to do with my time, I was reading all the wikipedia entries for the MX singles, and it said that Major Minus is one of the only songs to feature leading vocals by Buckland. Is that true, or is just another thing wiki got wrong? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

I may be going blind but I can't see that "fact" anywhere on either the

MX wiki section or the Major Minus page. Wherever you're seeing it, Jonny has never taken lead vocals on any Coldplay song.

May 14, 2012 - submitted by Elise, Brazil

Q. There was a rumor that Brazilian model Cintia Dicker attended the Paradise video. There are photos on twitter with pictures of the band a shot of the video, that does not appear in any of the two already presented. There is another version of Paradise?

The Oracle replies:

Yes, as you have seen photos I can tell you there was another video but it was - we won't be seeing it. I for one am very happy the first was discarded because the elephant video is my favourite Coldplay video ever.

May 10, 2012 - submitted by Ragnhild, Norway

Q. How do you become a Coldplay roadie? What are their qualifications and their job?

The Oracle replies:

It's not really a question I can answer because to be honest, it would be better to become a roadie and see where it leads you rather than picking a band and wanting to be their roadie specifically. There are many different roles and jobs within the career path of a roadie depending on what part of the road crew you want to be in i.e. piano tech, guitar tech etc. Most of the roadies I know either started out in bands themselves or hung around live music venues helping out bands. Technical knowledge is vital in some positions so again, it depends on what kind of roadie you want to be. Roadies tend to get jobs by being recommended by their roadie mates and so it's word of mouth. I'd suggest that if you're serious about it, make yourself pretty indispensable and forget about having a girlfriend - you'll never see her. I'm half joking of course. Matt McGinn's Roadie book is the best place for you to start your research but you may also like this website.

May 10, 2012 - submitted by Amanda, United States of America

Q. Good day to you oh wise and all-knowing Oracle ~ I was wondering if we should bring and wear our Xylo-bands to shows going forward in the future or were they just for this tour? We went to the Hollywood Bowl show on Friday and then brought them with us to the Weenie Roast on Saturday hoping they would come on but to no avail... alas they stayed quiet and dark... thus my question came to be... do we bring them with us to shows going forward? Thank you for your time.

The Oracle replies:

If you're coming along to more than one show, you don't need to bring your xyloband as you will receive another. The reason it doesn't work once your outside the venue (apart from the odd rogue one) is they are activated during the show by radio control. Please remove the batteries and recycle them if you can.

May 10, 2012 - submitted by Marika, Czech Republic

Q. Hi Oracle, Is there any photo where Chris is wearing a suit?

The Oracle replies:

I have seen Chris in a suit but obviously only when the occasion calls for one. Here's a cracking photo of one such occasion. Scrubs up well doesn't he?

Various pictures and stage setup for the Coldplay show at the Dragao Stadium, Porto, Portugal (18th May 2012):

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

NOVEMBER 2012

10 Auckland, New Zealand @ Mt Smart Stadium [discussion]

13 Melbourne, Australia @ Etihad Stadium [discussion]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Allianz Stadium [discussion]

21 Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2600 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

May 9, 2012 - submitted by Trinity, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle, Do the band always do sound checks before each show? And do they ever let members of the public in to watch (with a bought ticket obviously!) In the words of Coldplay "I'll see you soon!" (quite literally, in 21 days :D)

The Oracle replies:

The band don't always attend sounchecks; sometimes the crew step in and test the levels. There have been what are known as soundcheck parties where fans have won the chance to be there while the band soundcheck. There was also an occasion back in 2010 when the band were in Liverpool to play one of the Crisis gigs. Fans had been queuing outside in the snow so we decided to invite them in to watch and warm up a little. It was quite amusing as we had to usher fans out before the last song because we didn't want anything to give away the surprise of their special guest. Back For Good was quietly practised before Gary Barlow's arrival.

May 9, 2012 - submitted by Eline, Belgium

Q. I saw photos of Chris kite-flying. Does he always wear the MX-shirt? I thought it only was for concerts. Have a nice day! BTW: setlist is great! Please come to Belgium!

The Oracle replies:

The only time the guys wear stage gear is for on stage, video shoots, photo shoots and interviews. I would put money therefore on those photos being taken at one of the above - but obviously not a live show.

May 9, 2012 - submitted by Diana, Mexico

Q. Dear Oracle, I will get married on 3rd of August in Holland and I would love to walk through the aisle with Coldplay music. Which song would you pick ?

The Oracle replies:

Not knowing the length of the aisle or how long it will take you to walk it is making suggestion difficult. I'd plump for Postcards From Far Away if you think just under a minute is long enough.

May 8, 2012 - submitted by May, Netherlands

Q. Hey Oracle, I already tried Google. Is Green Eyes written by Chris or not? Because if you search it on Wikipedia it says: 'Green Eyes may refer to: Green Eyes, a song by Matt Lombardi written for Julie Marie Fort given to Coldplay for their album A Rush of Blood to the Head'. The idea that they didn't write it makes me a bit sad, since the song is so full of love, you know? It sounds so sincere. And I thought that it was written for Jonny and that girl, so... I'm really confused right now. If you answer, thanks a lot! And thanks a lot for reading this, anyway!

The Oracle replies:

This is an example of how Wikipedia isn't always 100% accurate and the old adage "don't believe everything you read" is true. As much as I do love Wiki, it looks like someone has added that entry - probably to name check themselves and a mate as neither are clickable links so not that prolific eh? If you delve a little deeper into the AROBTTH entry, it mentions the real fact that Chris wrote the song.

May 8, 2012 - submitted by Kirsten, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle, I was on the Wikipedia page for American Idol and saw that Coldplay's performance this past week was pre-recorded. It this true? Or was Paradise and ETIAW performed live? Can't wait to see them in June!

The Oracle replies:

Anchorman announced fans could win tickets to American Idol's 3rd May taping. Even though the band's schedule last week was of course 3 nights at Hollywood Bowl on 1st, 2nd and 4th May leaving Thu 3rd free; it was indeed pre-recorded earlier on Thursday morning in front of a different audience. The live performance was edited in to the later programme.

May 8, 2012 - submitted by AJ Anable, United States of America

Q. I am an Actor with a demo reel and I have Cold Play Music in the background. I have been told that this is illegal and I also have been told that it is perfectly ok. I thought best to go to the artist directly. I have no intention of selling my reel but it is shown for commercial purposes. Thanks for your response.

The Oracle replies:

SARCASM ALERT: I'm thinking that anyone who still thinks that Coldplay is two words should perhaps receive some form of detention for not doing sufficient homework (also one word). Teasing aside AJ, I'm sorry to have to tell you it's not as simple as asking the band. It's correct that you cannot use anyone's music without permission although copyright is held with their publishers and record label so you actually need to redirect your request to Universal Publishing (UK) and Parlophone.

May 8, 2012 - submitted by Grace, United States of America

Q. So far in the preview of the video Princess of China, only Rhianna is in it... where is Chris and the rest of the band? :(

The Oracle replies:

What you've seen is not a preview of the PoC video; it's a stand alone video for the live shows only - hence it only featuring Rihanna as the band are there in the flesh. I'm not at liberty to give any details away but I will tell you that the entire band aren't in the PoC video - only Chris.

May 3, 2012 - submitted by Daniel, United States of America

Q. Hello! Do Coldplay's supporting acts such as Rita Ora or Frank Ocean travel together with Coldplay and spend time with the band? I'm a huge fan of all the supporting acts and I was just wondering if they're all close friends. Sorry if this question is worded weirdly, but thanks!!!

The Oracle replies:

When the band toured Latin America in 2010, the opening act did travel with Coldplay, as did everyone. Coldplay's crew, Bat For Lashes' crew and all personnel travelled on a chartered plane for convenience Plus it kept costs down. The band had built up a great rapport with Bat For Lashes on a previous tour so invited them to travel with the band party. To answer your question, no, it's not usual for the support bands to travel with the band. I'm pretty sure they're not close friends either. I read a hideous story the other day about security for a well-known artist telling the support act to face the wall rather than look at the megastar. I can assure you, no such behaviour goes on with Coldplay.

May 3, 2012 - submitted by Maryam, Bahrain

Q. Dear Oracle, I was on billboard.com and they had six albums for Coldplay. One of the was called Buddha Renditions Of Lounge. Is it real? if not, why is it not on billboard? p.s. Mylo Xyloto is not on the site either

The Oracle replies:

There are more listed when I access the site (13) but that's because it is showing results when you search for the word Coldplay. Buddha Renditions Of Lounge Coldplay is the title of a record that hasn't officially got anything to do with Coldplay; it's just far eastern versions of some of their tracks. Mylo isn't on there because they haven't updated it.

May 3, 2012 - submitted by Matiss, Latvia

Q. Hey Oracle, I've just noticed at one of Coldplay last concerts that they played Princess of China with Rihanna in it. I was at Rock Im Park last year and there they played it too but without Rihanna. And I just wanna know why Chris doesn't sing all of the song without Rihanna. The Rock Im Park version sounded really great!! Thank you so much!!

The Oracle replies:

Chris sang all parts at Rock Im Park because that was before the album had been released and there hadn't been any announcements about it being a duet. It didn't feel right so the song was dropped from the live set until now.

May 2, 2012 - submitted by Matthew, United States of America

Q. I saw this video and it said Chris Martin from Coldplay was in it. It's the Book People Unite video and I could not tell which character was Chris. Somebody told me it was Pinnochio, but I couldn't quite hear it. Is that correct, if not who is he?

The Oracle replies:

When I first visited the video, I saw the name Chris Martin but no mention of Coldplay so assumed, 'ah, it'll be a different Chris Martin" but then I heard his voice quite clearly. Indeed it IS Chris. Watching the video I'd say he's voicing the Wolf ( from the Three Little Pigs) flying the plane - definitely NOT Pinocchio.

That's a great find Matthew, thanks for sharing.

May 2, 2012 - submitted by Callum, United Kingdom

Q. What time will the shows in London be ending? Me and my friends need to get the train from Paddington to Bristol at 23.30. Will we have time to reach the train without leaving early?

The Oracle replies:

I haven't got the stage times set in stone but I won't lie, I think you'd seriously be pushing it if you left at the end with thousands of people all exiting at the same time with the majority wanting to get the same tube as you. I personally wouldn't risk it. It's about a 5 minute walk to the Underground station (Arsenal) from the stadium and a 25-30 minute tube ride to Paddington. If you wanted to be at your train with only 10 minutes leeway, you'd have to have left Emirates by 22.45 latest.

May 2, 2012 - submitted by Saurabh, United States of America

Q. The Hollywood Bowl site says that there are no cameras allowed so how are we expected to add to the live feed?

The Oracle replies:

I have addressed this already but I shall do so again because... it does not say there are no cameras allowed on their site. What it actually says is: "Flash photography, professional camera or recording equipment (including cameras with detachable lenses, any form of camera stand or audio/video recording devices), laser pointers or other electronic devices are prohibited." You don't need flash anyway as it ruins the shot. If you're taking a non-professional camera or a phone that takes pics - you'll be fine.

May 1, 2012 - submitted by Joshua, United Kingdom

Q. Oracle, It has recently been rumoured that the official Princess of China music video will be released during the London gig on 2nd June. Can you confirm this?

The Oracle replies:

I can't confirm when the video will be premiered but I can tell you that it wouldn't be at a show mid-tour. They will have already played London the night before not to mention Coventry a few days earlier. It wouldn't make sense to show it at their 3rd UK show so no, that won't be the case.

May 1, 2012 - submitted by Naomi, United Kingdom

Q. I have been looking all over the place for a live version of twisted logic. Could you possibly find one for me all knowing oracle? It would be greatly appreciated :)

The Oracle replies:

I'm pretty sure that the song was never actually performed live so I can't point you in any direction I'm afraid.

May 1, 2012 - submitted by Zuzana, Slovakia

Q. Dear Oracle, there is a reality show in our country called Hotel Paradise (which is not of very high quality, and that is quite an understatement). They are using the Coldplay song (Paradise, obviously) as their theme tune. Is it legal? I would be very surprised if it was approved by the band. Here is the trailer. Many thanks for replying!

The Oracle replies:

When you say "here is the trailer", that is all it seems to be. The music can be used in the trailer but it will not be the theme tune for the actual show - that would be a different case completely. As far as I can tell the theme tune is performed by Tereza Kerndlova and Slovak Miso Biely. The song it titled Vsetko sa da.

April 30, 2012 - submitted by Amber, United States of America

Q. Hello dear Oracle, I saw Coldplay perform on Friday April 27 in San Jose, California. Before they took the stage, there was a song playing on the speakers. The lyrics were something like, "How do I know if I love you" and then another line about "How do I know if I know you when you come out of the shower squeak to the touch and you smell like a flower". Do you know what this song is called? I've looked everywhere and I can't find it. Thanks very much!

The Oracle replies:

Yes, it's the song Chris tweeted about back on the 18th April, "check out How Do I Know by Here We Go Magic. I love it".

April 30, 2012 - submitted by Piyush, India

Q. Hi Oracle. I have noticed several pictures of a Coldplay Aeroplane (Coldplay written on the outer body) on the internet. I want to know if any such thing really exists officially or those picture are just photoshopped? although I do know that the band travels in a private chartered plane. Thanks.

The Oracle replies:

The band have never owned a plane. What you may have seen is a chartered plane that has been branded with Coldplay on it for the tour. That's quite usual.

April 30, 2012 - submitted by James, United Kingdom

Q. WILL THERE BE AN X STAGE?! Hello Oracle, I've printed off a seating plan for Coldplay's upcoming gig at the Emirates Stadium but there is no sign of the 'X' stage in the middle, will it be there?

Many Many Thanks :)

The Oracle replies:

As far as I know, the X Stage is the B stage which is situated at the end of one of the runways from the main stage. I have a feeling you are referring to the C stage, as that is positioned in the seated area at the back within the audience. That wouldn't appear on a seating plan. Apart from it being a surprise on the night, the seating plan from show to show isn't modified too much online.

April 26, 2012 - submitted by Sarah, France

Q. Hello Oracle, Have Coldplay ever thought of adding a feminine voice to their songs. I am not talking about a duet like they did with Rihanna in Princess of China, but about a feminine voice to sing one of their songs (existing or future) with them. Thank you for your answer!

The Oracle replies:

Other than Rihanna which is a duet, there actually has also been a recording with another female vocalist. Rainy Day from Prospekt's March features Emily Bart-Smith on backing vocals.

April 26, 2012 - submitted by Louise, United Kingdom

Q. What time will the boys be on stage for the Arsenal gig on 02 Jun. Also have tickets for the England game at Wembley, but don't want to miss any of your set ;)

The Oracle replies:

Probably around 9pm. If you get a tube from Wembley at 7.15 ish, you should get to the Emirates Stadium* just after 8, if not sooner. * It's not an Arsenal gig! None of the band support that team.

April 26, 2012 - submitted by Steven, United States of America

Q. Oracle, I really need some guidance. I'm a musician and I've been playing about five years. About two years ago, I could write a song in five minutes. And I'd have fun playing guitar doing it. Now I feel like I've had a writers block that has lasted forever. I really need help to get out of this rut and back writing music. I'm scheduled to start recording next Friday and I have no idea what to do. Please Oracle, any assistance would be great. Have a nice week!

The Oracle replies:

I don't totally believe in writer's block Steven. I think it means you have nothing to say. The thing about it is, once you can't think what to write you can almost panic causing that period of time to go on longer than it might have. The problem manifests itself as a block if you see it as such. I think the key is to relax. It may be that you don't think what you write will be good enough. Allow yourself to make crap music too and maybe from there a seed of a great idea will come. It's ok to fail. It's ok to not write. It's ok to take your time. I'd cancel the recording too because that's not going to necessarily help you get back into creating music if you sit doing nothing in the studio. Once you tell yourself you can't, you most likely can't. Believe in yourself - take all the pressure off. Try to do a little bit each day without feeling you have to but rather, want to. If you find yourself humming a tune or some ideas pop into your head, record them into your phone or whatever. If they stay just as that for a while, at least you'll have something that may be used again in the future when you get your mojo back. My last suggestion is that during the next couple of weeks, don't listen to other people's music. If you hear something brilliant, rather than motivate you, it may leave you feeling even more despondent.

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

3 Los Angeles, CA @ American Idol show [discussion] [NEW!]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2600 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

April 25, 2012 - submitted by Lauren, United Kingdom

Q. Are there any songs the guys have wrote about themselves as a band or are there any songs about anyone in the band beside Chris?

The Oracle replies:

I think many of us know that Green Eyes was partly written about Jonny (awwww) and although songs have been written for and inspired by people close, I think that's the only one. I do recall that Help Is Around the Corner - the b side to Yellow - was written about the band's situation whilst recording the first album during their studio stint at Parr St, Liverpool.

April 25, 2012 - submitted by Rolando, Mexico

Q. Hey Oracle, what happen with the Coldplay puppets?

The Oracle replies:

They were sold with proceeds going to charity. Chris the puppet emails me* to tell me where they are and he even has a MX costume now that the new owner had made for him. *I am NOT joking!

April 25, 2012 - submitted by Muhammad, Malaysia

Q. Dear Oracle, My friend and I planning on doing a shirt of our own for Coldplay. It's for our fan club here in Malaysia. Hope you're okay with it.

The Oracle replies:

Coldplay images and logos are copyrighted so you can not reproduce them without seeking permission (you won't be granted that) or licensing - that's not something that we get involved with by the way. I'd be very careful before using someone else's design work or photography for your own profit, there could be legal implications.

April 24, 2012 - submitted by Craig Shackleton, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle you mentioned recently about suggesting songs that may fit for the stripped down B-stage part of the show. How about Amsterdam? It can start of intimate on the X then Will and guy can get back down to the main stage for the big end to the song.

The Oracle replies:

I actually mentioned that Phil Harvey had tweeted, "Need suggestions for acoustic bit in middle of the show". I have been receiving suggestions but it's not me that wants them. Tweet @coldplay to make suggestions but obviously, they can't play them all! I have to say Amsterdam would certainly be a popular choice (not just for me) a much-loved fan favourite.

April 24, 2012 - submitted by Saz, United States of America

Q. Hello dear Oracle, This is not so much a question as it is a request. I will soon be going to see Coldplay at the Hollywood Bowl and I always hoped that at a Coldplay concert I would be able to hear the song Yellow, but experience it like seen in videos with giant yellow bouncy balls. So if you could put in a good word for us Cali kids to get to experience that live, that would be fantastic. Thanks. :)

The Oracle replies:

I don't need to put a good word in for you as that will definitely be happening. If you read the review of the first show in Edmonton, you'll see the yellow balloons are still very much a feature of Yellow live.

April 24, 2012 - submitted by Molly, United Kingdom

Q. Coming to see Coldplay in Manchester on the 9th June, but just heard that you're playing Capital summertime ball on the same day? U still gonna come Manchester? :(

The Oracle replies:

As Anchorman reported, the band will play BOTH Wembley and Manchester's Etihad Stadium on 9th June.

April 24, 2012 - submitted by Stewart, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, I saw the question about the crew vs. band football match and I was wondering, with all of the crew in that picture and only 4 (or 5 if Phil was there) band members, wouldn't the crew have had way more people on their team than the band did on theirs?

The Oracle replies:

If you look at the photo Stuart, you'll see that not all the band members are there. I think they actually play 5 a side so I can spot Jonny, Will, Phil, Frosty, Dan & Kelly as Team CP and I am guessing that the rest of the motley crew (no pun intended) will be the varying options for Roadie FC. I did actually say to Roadie #42 yesterday that I hardly recognized anyone in the team!

April 23, 2012 - submitted by Christian, Germany

Q. Hey Oracle, I've seen the picture of the crew vs. band football match Roadie #42 posted on his blog. I was wondering if this is the whole crew for the tour 'cause it seems like few people to manage such a big thing like a world tour.

The Oracle replies:

Gosh no, Christian, you're quite right to assume that's too few people for a huge tour; that's nowhere near the full crew. There are 2 crews taking 2 stages, plus backline crew as well as a local crew at each venue. I should imagine the number of people it takes to put on a show of this scale is well into the 3 figure area. The backline crew who make up the crew football team is considerably smaller.

April 23, 2012 - submitted by Adelaide, United States of America

Q. Respectable Oracle, How is it that we, as Coldplayers, are asked to upload pictures and videos to update the Live Archive when cameras are not allowed? Or is it assumed that we all own smart-ish cellular devices? I am not trying to be facetious, just wondering how others have gotten by sneaking these shots because I am seriously contemplating smuggling a memory catcher *cough* into the Coldplay concert I am soon attending. Love always, Adelaide

The Oracle replies:

Who says you're not allowed to take a camera? Apart from camera phones which I know many people do have these days, you are allowed to take cameras - as long as they're not full professional kit. Leave the telephoto lens at home but snap away and then share your pics via Live Transmission.

April 23, 2012 - submitted by Mark, United Kingdom

Q. Hello Oracle, a while back I told you about a girl who I had liked for a while and had finally worked up courage to ask out, well she said no and told me she just wanted to be friends, she seemed and does still seem sincere so I've decided to give friendship at chance as we really do get on very well, next year we both plan to go to wales for university and she has asked me to be her flat mate next year, should I say yes, i.e I've told her it's no big deal her not liking me back etc and I believe this, but it would be awkward to have her bringing potential dates over.

The Oracle replies:

DO NOT live with this girl. Please promise me you aren't secretly hoping that one day the friendship will bloom into romance? Why inflict this torture on yourself? I think it's pretty daft of her to even ask you to be honest. If you have strong feelings for her and then share your living space with her, you will be putting yourself in a very unhealthy situation. By all means stay friends but keep it at a safe distance. I'm not even sure staying friends will work out for you if you love her so please tread carefully.

April 19, 2012 - submitted by John B, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, there was a CD sale at my university, and among the hundreds of used CDs I found a Coldplay album entitled Live In 2001. The man selling it said it was unreleased, and I bought it out a curiosity. Is it in any way official, or a bootleg of some sort?

The Oracle replies:

Much like the DVD answer I gave t'other day, the CD you have is an unofficial bootleg. The DVD in 2003 did have a special edition with a bonus live CD. That later became available as a separate entity - that's the only official live release.

We also gave away LRLRL which was also a live recording.

April 19, 2012 - submitted by Meghan, United States of America

Q. What time does Coldplay take the stage? We have tickets for Seattle, but my daughter has to play the flute in her school band concert and we need to know if we'll still have time to get there for them or if we should just try to sell our tickets. We'd be bummed to do it, but we don't want to miss half the show and there's no way our 14-year-old can get out of her school performance. Thanks in advance.

The Oracle replies:

Here's the info for States dates: Doors 5pm; The Pierces 7pm; Metronomy 7:45pm; Coldplay 9pm - 11pm

April 19, 2012 - submitted by Hannah, United Kingdom

Q. Hi, Phil tweeted before about there being another concert DVD, do you have any idea where they're thinking about filming the concert yet? Or any other information regarding the DVD? Thanks, its pretty exciting!

The Oracle replies:

No, that's why Phil tweeted "...but where to film it?" Feel free to tweet him back with your suggestions - others have. It is exciting, you're right. I personally cannot wait! I have no news for you. It's a case of watch this space. Well, not *this* space obviously, just keep an eye on the website and twitter in the coming weeks & months.

April 18, 2012 - submitted by Robert, United States of America

Q. That's odd... I could have sworn I pasted you the link. I sincerely apologize for my error*. Anyways here it is. *(Just in case it doesn't post this time) I am referring to the Up With The Birds / U.F.O. single that's going to be released for Record Store Day supposedly containing live renditions of both tracks.

The Oracle replies:

Ah, hello again Robert. To remind anyone in case they missed this yesterday, Robert asked: "Is there any validity to this? 2nd: If there is... HOW CAN I GET A HOLD OF THIS BEFORE THE RELEASE IS SOLD OUT?" Thanks for clearing that up, I thought I had gone mad. Yes, it just so happens that it is true and all the info you need is on the Record Store Day website.

April 18, 2012 - submitted by Maya, United States of America

Q. What are Coldplay fans called? Like, Coldplayers? And if we don't have a name, we should make one!

The Oracle replies:

I know Lady Gaga has her Monsters and Justin has his Beliebers but "we" don't have a name for Coldplay fans. Chris obviously says you are the best fans in the world but it's fans who refer to themselves as Coldplayers.

April 18, 2012 - submitted by Meagan, United States of America

Q. Does Phil tour with the band or does he only work with them in the studio?

The Oracle replies:

Both. There may be the odd occasion when Phil's not on tour but generally he is. He's not always sat in every studio session either, but he'll be around and very much a part of it all.

April 17, 2012 - submitted by wsal, Canada

Q. I just love Glass of Water, it's gotta be my top 3 favourite Coldplay songs and actually top 3 song in general!! Since, I love it so much I wanted to know whether Coldplay likes to play that song and whether they do on tour? Thanks a bunch!

The Oracle replies:

Well, Phil has tweeted "Need suggestions for acoustic bit in middle of the show", so maybe you could suggest Glass of Water? Or anything else for that matter...

April 17, 2012 - submitted by Georg, Germany

Q. Hi there, as I see myself as a Coldplay fan and especially loved the atmosphere at the live performance (December 2011 in Cologne, and there are more concerts for me to come), I bought the Violet Hill DVD released in late 2011. It turns out that the quality of this DVD is bad, bad, bad in every aspect (image ratio, sound quality, wrong song titles...). Why did Coldplay approve something that bad and disappointing? Is it just about the money for them, or is it possible they don't even know of it? Why not publish something as beautiful as Coldplay Live 2003 again?

The Oracle replies:

Coldplay DID NOT approve the Violet Hill DVD - I have never even heard of it. There are countless bootlegs and illegal recordings around but only one official DVD and that's the one you mentioned: Coldplay - Live 2003. There hasn't been anything that came close to that since but it doesn't mean there never ever will be.

April 17, 2012 - submitted by Heather, Canada

Q. I was wondering if Guy Berryman took any sort of a production role during the making of MX. At first I thought this was an unworthy question to ask because of the pressence of other producers like Markus Dravs, Rik Simpson, Dan Green, & Brian Eno during the creation of the album. However, when I thought of Guy's involvement in producing The Pierces, James Levy & The Blood Red Rose, and Apparatjik, I thought I should ask you to clarify. Thanks you so much!

The Oracle replies:

Actually Heather, the whole band get involved on the production side of things and always have - even on Parachutes.

April 17, 2012 - submitted by James, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, why is the UK tour so short compared to the US tour? All of the bands tickets are sold out in the MEN as far as I know and so is London plus I live in Liverpool so the only realistic place is Manchester, always wanted to go and see the band live and will now have to wait until their next tour :/

The Oracle replies:

The USA is in the top 5 countries listed by area while the UK is hanging around the #80 mark. There is a vast difference in size of the countries for starters!

By the way, if you've been looking at tickets for Manchester's M.E.N, you definitely won't find tickets as they're playing the Etihad Stadium. Keep trying, there may be tickets available or other fans may not be able to go so don't give up just yet.

New photos of Coldplay performing at the Rogers Arena, Vancouver (20-21 April 2012):

Photos courtesy of FiveZeroThree.com (click for more!)

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 London, UK @ Wembley Stadium (Capital FM's Summertime Ball 2012) [discussion] [NEW!]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2600 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

April 5, 2012 - submitted by Abby, Philippines

Q. Dear Oracle, I read a quote from AROBTTH Wikipedia page lately, which says that "For the album's singles, Martin asked Sundsbo what he could do; the latter suggested scanning the head of each member of the band". Then I check out the pictures of the single covers (In My Place, GPASUYF, The Scientist, and Clocks), but I couldn't tell which faces of band members was among what single cover . I could only guess about it. My question is if which head was taken for which single cover? Please Answer. Thanks :) Abby, Philippines

The Oracle replies:

Solve Sundsbo's artwork for AROBTTH and its subsequent singles is quite abstract. I do struggle myself to work out the covers for In My Place & Clocks but I have no doubt about Will & Guy's likeness. Here's what I think:

In My Place - Jonny

The Scientist - Will

Clocks - Chris

GPASUYF - Guy

April 4, 2012 - submitted by Arthur, Netherlands

Q. Hi Oracle, Was Idiot ever recorded? If so, do you know where to find it? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

A demo of Idiot was recorded in the latter part of 2001 during the Parr St. recording sessions for A Rush Of Blood to the Head. I know it exists as I do happen to have a CD-R copy but there isn't a CD available for sale anywhere - unless an unofficial, illegal bootleg is floating around that is.

April 5, 2012 - submitted by Samuel, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, What is Steritonin? Everyone mumbles when I ask them... Ta

The Oracle replies:

I think you mean serotonin. I don't know why anyone would mumble - maybe they don't know what it is but don't want to say that. It's linked to mood so maybe that could be the reason. Anyway, now you have the correct spelling you can use your preferred search engine to learn more about it.

April 5, 2012 - submitted by Ellen, Netherlands

Q. Hi Oracle! I'm going to London next week on the 10th and 11th of April and I am planning on visiting The Bakery then. Is there any chance that the guys will be there during that time? Because if there isn't, I'd rather spend my time discovering London;) Love, Ellen

The Oracle replies:

Discover London, they won't be there!

April 4, 2012 - submitted by Sarah, France

Q. Hello Oracle! I'm currently looking for an internship. Music is soooo important in my life. I absolutely want to work in the music industry, as a member of the backstage team. Do you have any advice to help me find this internship without having a single contact in the music industry? Thank you a lot!

The Oracle replies:

Just go to individual websites of labels for example and they will have a vacancy section where internships are listed. You don't necessarily need contacts to get one.

April 4, 2012 - submitted by Sara, Spain

Q. Hello Oracle! ;) I`m going to Madrid's concert,but the problem is that my train arrives to Madrid at 20:30.So my question is; Can I enter during the support's performance? Thank you for your time, Greetings from Spain :)

The Oracle replies:

Don't worry Sara, a concert isn't like theatre where you have wait until the intermission to enter if you're late. You can arrive whenever you like.

April 3, 2012 - submitted by James, Malaysia

Q. Hello Oracle, I was just wondering about what Paris said in the recent interview. He mentioned doing Will's drumkits for the tours. But in the Glastonbury interview, I thought Will didn't own any drumkits at all. Can you clarify the confusion? Cheers from Malaysia! p.s. When is Coldplay coming here? Massive fans here

The Oracle replies:

As Will didn't start off as a drummer, when the band met him he didn't have a kit. Obviously when they play live he is playing "his" drum kit - it's not on loan or anything - but he's never had a kit of his own. Bless him, he obviously sees it as a band purchase but essentially that's what he means about not owning one.

April 3, 2012 - submitted by Matt, Channel Islands

Q. Dear Oracle, My wife and I are going to see Coldplay on the 1st of June. First big Stadium gig... very excited. Unfortunately can't get to queue as early as we'd like as our flight doesn't get in till midday :( But... we both adore Princess of China, will Coldplay ever play it live? Obviously they will need a female vocalist.... I've heard Marina and the Diamonds are supporting...??

The Oracle replies:

Don't worry, you'll still have time to get a good spot. Marina & the Diamonds opened for the band in Manchester and Emeli Sande supported on the dates before Christmas. Neither female vocalists took the lead in PoC so I doubt very much that it's going to happen this Summer either.

April 3, 2012 - submitted by Naomi, United Kingdom

Q. I really love the version of Clocks from leftrightleftrightleft. How can I find that performance live?

The Oracle replies:

That is a live version Naomi but if you mean that you haven't got a physical copy of the CD; I'm afraid they're not for sale. Just as the download was free, the CD was given away at concerts.

April 2, 2012 - submitted by Ignacio, Argentina

Q. I'm a huge fan of U2 but Coldplay comes in the next place, for sure. Both bands' live performances can't be compared to anything. Anyhow, I have a question about Chris. What's with his fanatism for U2 and what's his relationship like with Bono? He's always saying U2 is the biggest band in the world and that his music can't be compared to theirs. Why's that? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

U2 have been going since 1976 and released 13 albums and are one of the best-selling acts of all time. They have sold more than 150 million records worldwide & won 22 Grammys. It's little wonder that Chris is a fan, or anyone else for that matter (I believe Jonny's first album was Rattle & Hum on cassette). Chris is being humble to say that Coldplay's music can't compare and he often says that of bands he holds in great esteem. Bono was an early supporter of Coldplay and the two bands have genuine affection for one another regardless of any jokey comments that may have been made - of course I don't doubt there's more than a whiff of competitiveness in the air. Chris made a comment in 2005 about being Drago to U2's Rocky.

April 2, 2012 - submitted by Montana Kelley, United States of America

Q. Hi Coldplay :) Here's my question: Can songs REALLY tell a story? My step-mother always judges a song by the story it tells. Songs that she thinks have no point, she doesnt like. I think she's wrong. But I can olny determine that from the best. Songs are moving, I get that. But moving enough to tell a complete story in just a few verses that repeat?

The Oracle replies:

I had a meeting once with a music publisher from a very large company and he was based in Nashville, which is famous for its Country music. He was so insistent that a song HAD to tell a story; that it couldn't just sing about a table (yes, that is exactly what he said). I can't say your Mum is wrong as it's her personal thoughts but what I can do is argue my case that I disagree. I think there's plenty classical pieces or instrumentals that carry plenty of emotion for me. My trump card though is this... Cocteau Twins are a band who's singer, Liz Frazer, sang in an indecipherable language. A reviewer once wrote that "part of her appeal is how she can make hard-to-interpret lyrics so emotionally gripping."

April 2, 2012 - submitted by Justine, France

Q. Hello Oracle, Did Chris and Ellen DeGeneres know each other well before the show? They seem to be very close friends in the rehersal video (she kisses him on the lips!!!) Thanks for your answer. Love from France.

The Oracle replies:

The band have met Ellen before the 2011 rehearsal but she and Chris aren't best friends or anything.

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

5 Los Angeles, CA @ KROQ's Weenie Roast y Fiesta [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2600 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

March 29, 2012 - submitted by George, United Kingdom

Q. Hello Oracle, I was wondering, with the band travelling across the globe so often to so many places, has there ever been a bad flight experience? emergency landings, horrendous turbulance) thanks :)

The Oracle replies:

Yes, inevitably there have been many patches of turbulence over the years but a couple of really bad moments do sprint to my mind. One I was present for. We were in a very small plane from Vegas to Palm Springs for a Coachella performance. I honestly thought I should try and call home to say my goodbyes as the plane took dips like a rollercoaster. Really rather frightening. I don't suppose that compares to when Chris went on an Oxfam trip. The plane hit a dust patch on landing causing Chris to fear for his life!

March 29, 2012 - submitted by Arthur, Paraguay

Q. Is Guy going to be in NYC for The Pierces's concert on Thursday night?

The Oracle replies:

I shouldn't think so Arthur as he lives in the U.K and as far as I know, is at home at the moment.March 28, 2012 - submitted by Ben, United Kingdom

Q. Last week I went on a geography trip to Studland Bay where the music video for Yellow was filmed - why was this beach, of all beaches chosen?

The Oracle replies:

James Frost (one half of the video's directing team) said it was their producer who suggested it. As is usual with videos, several locations are given as options before a scout of those places are carried out. Studland Bay was actually the first they visited and as soon as they saw it they knew immediately it was the right place to film.

March 28, 2012 - submitted by Johanna, United States of America

Q. Shalom. The other day I saw a post on Rihanna's Facebook page that said she was on the set of Coldplay's Princess of China video. But I haven't seen anything about it from Coldplay. Are they making one? T.Hanks!

The Oracle replies:

PH (Phil) did actually post a photo of Chris on Coldplay's Twitter a few days ago.

March 27, 2012 - submitted by Mega Elizabeth, Indonesia

Q. Hey Oracle I have seen coldplay video.. Charlie Brown. who the boy in ya video? Thx .. handsome boy.

The Oracle replies:

His name is Elliott Tittensor.

March 27, 2012 - submitted by Leah, Trinidad and Tobago

Q. Dear Oracle, I bought tickets to see Coldplay on 24th July in Montreal with 4 other friends. The Ticket we received says Section 205 "Obstructed view". The Bell Centre said that they won't know how obstructed the view will be because they don't know the stage setup.... We're flying in all the way from Trinidad & Tobago to see the show and I'm hoping that we didn't get stuck with poor viewing :(((( Can you help or provide any info re: stage plan for Bell Centre at Montreal?? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

The stage set-up is 360 degree so you'll be able to see wherever your seats are. Obstructed view usually suggests some part of the supports and/or beams so you will definitely need to check with the venue to find out whereabouts Section 205 places you in relation to the structure.

March 27, 2012 - submitted by Julia, Brazil

Q. Is the drawing of the butterfly from LeftRightLeftRightLeft original? If not, where does it come from?

The Oracle replies:

Yes. If you've been lucky enough to attend one of the Viva shows and be even luckier to get yourself a confetti butterfly, you'll see that it is the same shape as the lrlrl logo. In fact, taking luck one step further into the realms of luckiest, if you had a physical copy of the LRLRL CD, if you put your confetti butterfly atop the logo butterfly, they are exactly the same size as well as shape.

March 26, 2012 - submitted by Kristin, United Kingdom

Q. Hey Oracle, is it wrong to go to a concert alone?

The Oracle replies:

I have been to loads of concerts on my own. If you have nobody to go with you at least you will be in a place where everyone is there for the same thing and will have a great time with like minded folk.

March 26, 2012 - submitted by Tyler, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle! Is the band's studio (The Beehive/Bakery) truly located in Northern London, particularly Camden Town area? This past weekend I was in London for the first time and had a blast. Such an amazing city. I looked on the internet for pictures and locations of the studios, and I think that I found the right area. Are you able to confirm that I was at the right place?

The Oracle replies:

It's located in North London yes but not technically in Camden Town. From your description you were at the right place but the band wouldn't have been there though (they're not presently there either). Aw I hope you didn't spend too much time waiting when there are so many more fun things to do in London.

March 26, 2012 - submitted by Gavin, United States of America

Q. Oracle, I have the opportunity to study abroad next spring and am so excited as I have never been out of the USA before. (except a one day trip a few miles into Canada) I'm an English major and don't know any other languages, so I've narrowed it down to Scotland, Ireland, or England. Edinburgh, St. Andrews, and Cork, Ireland are at the top of my list. Wherever I go I'll be able to travel on a few weekends and spring break, but it's still a tough decision! Opinion? Advice?

The Oracle replies:

Ooh what a tough choice! I love Scotland and Ireland but if you forced my hand to choose one of those places to go and study, I would definitely pick Edinburgh. I know someone who is currently at St.Andrews and he loves it but yup, I'd pick the thriving capital.

March 22, 2012 - submitted by Alicia, Mexico

Q. I am afraid. I found a person that likes the same things that I like. She loves the same bands, movies, etc. that I. Everything is SO similar! Should I be concerned or upset? It's like I'm not unique. It's a little bit traumatic. She loves the same lyrics that I... It's inexplicable.

The Oracle replies:

Don't worry Alicia, it's not inexplicable. We're all humans so by our nature we'll have a lot in common with many other people. I mean, Coldplay have sold millions of records so that's a thing that unites a certain set of people despite age, creed, race etc. If we then add favourite books, films, TV shows, comedians etc. then it would stand that if we all liked totally different things we wouldn't have the means to experience any of it. There wouldn't be the need for cinemas showing films or theatres with comedy or bands playing live gigs because everything would be too niche. Yes, we are all unique in our differences but we should celebrate our similarities with the people who share them. Or at the very least embrace those differences to experience new things - even if the new is from 1845. *This is my favourite piece of classical music. Ever.

March 22, 2012 - submitted by Martin, Australia

Q. Greetings oh wise Oracle... This question might have been asked already, but which Mylo Xyloto album artwork do the boys consider to be the 'main' or 'original' one?

The Oracle replies:

Ooh that's an interesting question yet at the same time if we think about it... why would anyone who had an absolute give the option? I think the beauty of it is that they see that both work so well but suit different individual styles within the parameters. As with lyric interpretation, the band have left it up to you to decide which you prefer. That's also why I like the personalised MX artwork.

March 21, 2012 - submitted by Jack, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, I'm seeing the boys at the Emirates Stadium in London on the 4th of June (first time so I'm massively excited already!!) I've got GA tickets which I believe includes the first tier of stadium seating. In your experience, how early would I need to get to the venue to queue to get a decent choice of seats? Thanks :)

The Oracle replies:

Ooh Jack, that's a big pressure question! I wouldn't like to say "get there for 9 a.m" but I do know for a fact that some of our wonderful fans will do because the crew & I have met a few of them of several occasions. I went to a show at Wembley Stadium last Summer and got there at around 5pm. It wasn't too difficult to get a good standing aspect but the only available GA seats were no where near the front. That said, wherever you are in a stadium you're going to have a great view of the overall show and its effects. In answer to your direct question though, I'd have to say "er, early"!

March 21, 2012 - submitted by Eelco, Netherlands

Q. Best Oracle in the world, Last year I saw Coldplay at the Pinkpop Festival, it was my first festival ever. I saw lots of people wearing weird and funny clothes. I'll be going to Pinkpop again this year with some friends. My friends want to dress up funny, but I don't now why I should do it too. Would you dress up funny for a festival? Greets from Holland, Eelco

The Oracle replies:

Personally no, I wouldn't dress up at any festival - though I should point out that I generally love fancy dress. Bestival is a festival that encourages people to dress up on the Saturday and I know that the first day of T In The Park some people do attend in costume too. I suggest you only do what YOU feel comfortable doing and that's not just my advice for dressing up for Pinkpop, but for life!

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2600 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

March 15, 2012 - submitted by Pablo, Paraguay

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

The Oracle replies:

There's loads of ways to sort of make your own Coldplay radio by making playlists of what you've got or using Spotify for example. http://bit.ly/cx0Le a site that claim to be Coldplay radio program.

March 15, 2012 - submitted by Naty, United Kingdom

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

The Oracle replies:

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

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

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

The Oracle replies:

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

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

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

The Oracle replies:

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

March 14, 2012 - submitted by StRanger, Finland

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

What is the font Coldplay used in Parachutes until Viva la Vida and what is that font they use in Mylo Xyloto (in album covers etc)? Can I download them somewhere? Hope you answer and have a nice day! (And I hope this text is understandable)

The Oracle replies:

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

March 14, 2012 - submitted by Isabel, United Kingdom

Q. Where have Coldplay toured? I need a list of all the places they have ever toured/peformed? Quick as possible please!!

The Oracle replies:

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

March 13, 2012 - submitted by Yvonne, United Kingdom

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

The Oracle replies:

I have no idea if anyone else has got their tickets yet but rest assured yours are not late according to the event info so you can stop panicking. Ticketmaster do state on their website that "tickets for this event are provided directly by the promoter and not printed by Ticketmaster and may not be despatched until ten days before the event".

March 13, 2012 - submitted by John, United Kingdom

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

The Oracle replies:

Nice little insight into the young Buckland there, thank you. Have you tried asking the school as they must have a photo of their football teams in the archives somewhere? Or even the Christmas concert... I'm ever so sorry but I'm not sure I want to open the floodgates of validation requests.

March 13, 2012 - submitted by Karen, United Kingdom

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

The Oracle replies:

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

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

March 12, 2012 - submitted by Isabel, Venezuela

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

The Oracle replies:

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

March 12, 2012 - submitted by Frank, United Kingdom

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

The Oracle replies:

The reason you didn't see it at Dingwalls is because the Make Trade Fair equal sign wasn't a tattoo. If you use the search option and type in tattoo, the answer to this from 2008 will appear. Coldplay stand for many things but don't mark themselves permanently with causes. It doesn't mean the band no longer believe in it; Oxfam are represented at every live date on each tour. Chris hasn't drawn the sign on his hand since around 2005.

March 12, 2012 - submitted by Elaine, Ireland

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

The Oracle replies:

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

Given you're on the front row I am sure you'll be able to react to the band in your own way so go for it and don't worry what anyone else is doing. I'm a quarter Irish and love all things Emerald Isle but as the band aren't Irish I am wondering why you feel the need to take a flag at all? If it's because you're from nearer their home, maybe just say it with a t-shirt as that's not likely to block anyone's view.

March 8, 2012 - submitted by Joanne, United Kingdom

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

The Oracle replies:

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

March 8, 2012 - submitted by Vasilis, Greece

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

The Oracle replies:

Regular readers will know that I cannot resist sarcasm. I tried, but I'm sorry I couldn't stop myself. What are the etc. songs you refer to? I also know their entire discography and as far as I can recall, there are only those 2 songs you mention that refer to China. They have mentioned other places:

Amsterdam

Lovers In Japan

Cemeteries of London

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

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2380 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

March 6, 2012 - submitted by Nya, United States of America

Q. Could you tell me what performance its from when Chris walks on the crowd inside a bubble?

The Oracle replies:

Er, he's never done that... Someone must be either a) confusing Chris with someone else or b) telling you porky pies.

March 6, 2012 - submitted by Katherine Board, United Kingdom

Q. I met Coldplay in 2005 at a preview of X&Y, there was a video of them meeting the fans but I can't find a copy of the video on the internet, can you help please?

The Oracle replies:

Go to our Archive section of the site, then to the Timeline section, click 2005, there are 2 TV icons in March, one of them is that rehearsal at Music Bank.

March 6, 2012 - submitted by Medeiros, Brazil

Q. At the opening of Paradise and Charlie Brown videos we can see underneath the song title the numbers MMXI and MMXII respectively, this would have anything to do with the song titled MMIX that serves as a opening for Every Teardrop is a Waterfall?

The Oracle replies:

The Paradise video was made in 2011 and the Charlie Brown video was made in 2012. In Roman Numerals those years are represented as MMXI and MMXII respectively. Neither have anything to do with MMIX on MX - which does not mean 1010 by the way.

March 5, 2012 - submitted by Craig, United Kingdom

Q. Hi there, just wondering if the bands clothing is custom made or if I can buy similar gear in the shops as I love the colours and graffiti used in them ? Look forward to a reply thanks :)

The Oracle replies:

The beauty of Coldplay stage costumes is that you can easily recreate the look at home and most of the key items can be found on the high street. Ooh get me, I sound like Gok Wan. Any that aren't available from popular chains can be replaced by similar items given that they will be customized with dye or paint to change their appearance anyway.

March 5, 2012 - submitted by Sienna, United States of America

Q. Is there a band pet? Or at least, do the guys have pets?

The Oracle replies:

I'd like to jest that I am the band's pet but no, there isn't one. There are pets within the band's families but truth be told, other that Chris' dog & Phil's dog, I don't know who has what. Guy used to have a rabbit years ago...

March 5, 2012 - submitted by Fraser, United Kingdom

Q. Hey, seeing as June 4th is a bank holiday, I'm assuming the tubes will stop running earlier than normal. So do you think it will be possible to use the tube to get home? (I'm going home to Essex) June 4th is also the diamond jubilee concert so do you think TFL may run the tube later for that? Cheers :D Can't wait for the concert, even if i have to sleep outside the stadium afterwards! :P

The Oracle replies:

I would imagine that there will be sufficient transportation on the 4th June but I advise anyone wishing to travel via public transport during the late May bank holiday/Queen's Diamond Jubilee long weekend to check with the local transport authority for schedules.

March 1, 2012 - submitted by Anirudh, India

Q. Why did Chris Martin give a standing ovation to Maroon 5 in the Grammy's while no one stood?? Was Coldplay inspired by Maroon 5 when they were kids??

The Oracle replies:

Coldplay have actually been around longer; Maroon 5 have only been around since 2002 (in that incarnation) so it certainly isn't because of any childhood inspirations - Adam Levine is younger than Chris! However, at the Grammys Maroon 5 performed with Foster the People (who Chris has said he loves) and The Beach Boys (who the band love) in a medley of Beach Boys songs to celebrate their 50th anniversary, I'd say that's the reason Chris - and Jonny - gave a standing ovation was to congratulate 50 years of The Beach Boys.

March 1, 2012 - submitted by Jamie, United Kingdom

Q. Is there anyway the 20% Off advert could be taken off the front page?

Live Nation say the code expired last week and when I tried to buy merchandise with the code it didn't work :-( Thanks

The Oracle replies:

How very strange Jamie, as the code does indeed work for me. In fact, both Anchorman and I have been filling our carts to our hearts' content.

Once you're in our Merch store, add your desired items to the cart and before you check out, enter the code COL20B12 in the promotion box. Click refresh and it should work out your new total with 20% off.

March 1, 2012 - submitted by AMartin, United Kingdom

Q. Hello what will Chris Martin do for his birthday?;)

The Oracle replies:

All I know is that tomorrow morning the band will appear on Good Morning America so that's how Chris will start his day.

February 29, 2012 - submitted by Madigan Hughes, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle! Will Chris Martin be doing anything else with Noel Gallagher? Because they are my 2 favourite people in the world! And for them to perform together again like at the BRITS would by amazing! Thanks x

The Oracle replies:

There's nothing planned other than the essence of Noel possibly featuring on future recordings. In case you missed Noel joining Chris & Jonny onstage back in 2002 they did a few songs together for a Make Trade Fair gig.

February 29, 2012 - submitted by Paul, United Kingdom

Q. I Have two standing tickets for coldplay Friday 1st June 2012 want to swap for the Monday 4th June. Anyone interested?

The Oracle replies:

Try asking here. Hopefully you'll be able to find someone to swap with.

February 29, 2012 - submitted by JD, United Kingdom

Q. is Coldplay not playing at T in the Park 2012?

The Oracle replies:

Now there's a date I can definitely confirm that they're NOT playing given they appeared there last year.

February 28, 2012 - submitted by Shiva, Canada

Q. Hi Oracle, Coldplay is selling tickets for behind the stage seats for the upcoming shows. Any idea how the view would be?

The Oracle replies:

I assume it will be just like the London's shows in December I know someone who sat there and said "good actually... really suprised how good".

February 28, 2012 - submitted by Mary Anne, United States of America

Q. Did Chris go to a post-Oscars party (Vanity Fair to be specific) Sunday night / wee hours of Monday morning?

The Oracle replies:

Yup and there were some photos of him looking very dapper indeed!

February 28, 2012 - submitted by Darem, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle! My question is do you know what book the Coldplay Puppets were reading in the picture at Corfu? Thanks a bunch xx

The Oracle replies:

That question was answered back on October 30, 2009. If you type puppets into the new search box or look at the "puppets" tag, you will see that the book was Quicksilver by Neal Stephenson.

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows and other forthcoming appearances:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion]

9 Los Angeles, CA @ Jimmy Kimmel Live [discussion]

10 Los Angeles, CA @ GRAMMY Week MusiCares Person of the Year tribute [discussion]

12 Los Angeles, CA @ 54th Grammy Awards, Staples Center [discussion]

16 Sydney, Australia @ 2DayFM, Mobile Live Set (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

17 Sydney, Australia @ Sunrise (intimate show) [discussion] [CANCELLED]

21 London @ Brit Awards 2012, O2 Arena [discussion]

MARCH 2012

2 New York, NY @ Good Morning America [discussion]

4 New York, NY @ The Secret Policeman's Ball, Radio City Music Hall (Amnesty International) [discussion]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

1 Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills [discussion]

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2380 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

February 27, 2012 - submitted by Bames, United Kingdom

Q. Any chance of the band ever playing songs like Bigger Stronger, We Never Change, High Speed and other classics again?

The Oracle replies:

There's always a chance but I'd say very slim chance. Out of those 3 I would say that We Never Change would be most likely if at all because it would fit well into the acoustic section of their show. I was lucky enough to hear Such a Rush being tried out at a soundcheck in Antwerp back in 2005. Anchorman was even luckier as he heard the band soundcheck Bigger Stronger at Dingwalls in December last year.

February 27, 2012 - submitted by Renan, Brazil

Q. Will Coldplay sing with Elton John someday? I would love to see Elton John on the Chris's piano.

The Oracle replies:

As it goes, I am about to make you very happy Renan. Elton already has played on Chris' piano. Elton invited the band over to his Atlanta residence for lunch when they were playing there back in 2003. They invited him to play piano on Trouble and he did.

February 23, 2012 - submitted by Lily, United Kingdom

Q. Do you know what modern American (rock) bands that anyone from Coldplay (Chris in particular) likes? To be honest, I think American bands are terrible compared to our great British bands, so I was wondering what kind of American bands the group enjoys. Maybe if I listen to them my opinion of American bands will change.

The Oracle replies:

Wow Lily, I'm quite surprised because although there are (in our own personal opinions) rather a lot of well under par bands all over the world, the U.S has provided us with some astonishingly great artists over the years.

February 23, 2012 - submitted by Molly McGrath, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, Chris, Will and Guy are all in the list of top tags, but Jonny isn't. Do you think theres a reason that he's mentioned less often than the others? Love, a huge fan :)

We must rectify this! Now I have my much coveted search box (much better than the tag cloud I reckon), I will be sure to tag Jonny more if you guys ask more Jonny related questions. In fact, I'm tagging this one for starters!

February 23, 2012 - submitted by Tanya, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, Who was your favourite performer at the Brits? (except, of course, Coldplay who were sublime!) Thanks, from a crazy Coldplay fan :)

The Oracle replies:

I know you said except for but Coldplay were my favourite. I liked the simplicity of Ed Sheeran, the almost too scared to wreck her newly operated on vocals of Adele, the energy of Rihanna, the no fuss Noel Gallagher (featuring Chris of course) and the reworked version by Bruno Mars. All in all I thought almost all the performances were jolly good.

February 22, 2012 - submitted by Harry, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, I just watched the Brits (Charlie Brown was amazing), and I noticed Chris playing with Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds! Was he meant to be there, because Noel didn't mention him or anything? Thanks from a massive fan!

The Oracle replies:

I swear I'm laughing with you, not at you but yes, of course Noel Gallagher knew Chris was there. I think any artist would be pretty miffed if someone from another band just came on stage and started playing without permission. The giveaway is the fact that Chris is playing his own keyboard.

February 22, 2012 - submitted by Logan, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, I am very excited about going to another Coldplay concert this summer. I have seen some of their performances online and have wondered why they haven't played Lovers in Japan. In my opinion it is one of their best songs performed live. Is there any chance they will add it to their set list when they start their tour back up?

The Oracle replies:

Lovers In Japan has been played live so many times as it was part of the Viva tour setlist. It's not on the current MX one though so enjoy these clips to your heart's content.

February 22, 2012 - submitted by Andrew, United States of America

Q. I noticed the tweet about the Brit Awards and the table where Coldplay will be dining. Table number 42, coincidence? Thanks Oracle!

The Oracle replies:

Roadie #42 took a photo of table #42 but it wasn't where Coldplay dined, so no coincidence.

February 21, 2012 - submitted by Britt, Netherlands

Q. Dear Oracle, At what time does the Brit Award show start? I'd really love to see it! Are the boys looking forward to the show? Thanks in advance, Britt

The Oracle replies:

The Brits will be broadcast on ITV tonight at 8pm. Coldplay are opening the show so you won't want to miss the beginning! They rehearsed yesterday and are already there now so are more than ready for tonight. Voting is now closed so let's wait and see if they bring one of Peter Blake's bespoke statuettes home.

February 21, 2012 - submitted by N, Bahrain

Q. Hi Oracle! I just wanted to ask about that competition the site had to win a signed souvenir from the Grammys, did they already announce the winner? Or is it still going? Thanks! :)

The Oracle replies:

The competition's closing date was 17th February so it's over. We don't "announce" the winner anywhere; we contact the winner directly.

February 21, 2012 - submitted by Max, Canada

Q. Hi Oracle, I recently dug out my old camera and found a beautiful picture from the Vancouver show of the Viva la Vida tour. I really want to share it with people and submit it but I missed the deadline for submitting tour photos to the site. How can I submit it? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

There is no deadline to submit tour photos to the site so just click here and upload them.

February 20, 2012 - submitted by Carla, Peru

Q. Hey Oracle! I heard the boys did a mini cover of Barbie Girl. I think Jonny's voice is so funny :) Do you know if there's a complete video or something? Thanks.

The Oracle replies:

There are audio clips of it but they only did a few seconds of the song.

It was at the time they used to perform part of a song that was recorded by someone local to where they were; A-ha in Norway for example and as an Aqua are from Denmark, the Barbie Girl clip was played there on November 21st 2002.

February 20, 2012 - submitted by Gaston, Argentina

Q. Hi Oracle! I was watching this interview and I saw that Will has a tatoo on his left arm. I've never seen that so I was wandering what is it?

The Oracle replies:

It's a tattoo of his first born's handprint. Here is a slightly clearer picture of it.

February 20, 2012 - submitted by Becky, United States of America

Q. If someone writes a song for Coldplay would the band mates accept it?

The Oracle replies:

No lovely they wouldn't - that goes for lyrics and or/music. I usually advise people with writing talents to get in touch with The Guild of International Songwriters & Composers.

February 16, 2012 - submitted by Amber, United States of America

Q. I have a literature project where our professor is asking us to find a song which displays assonance, a repetition of vowel sounds, or consonance, a repetition of the same consonant sounds. As an avid Coldplay fan, I'd love to be able to use one of their songs. Would you happen to know of any off the top of your head? Thank you so much for your time and I hope you are well.

The Oracle replies:

The opening line of Strawberry Swing displays assonance but not the rest of the song. If you go to our Recordings section of the site, you can see all the lyrics there so perhaps have a whizz through to see if there's a better example.

February 16, 2012 - submitted by Josie, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, I am following an account on Twitter called @ChrisOfColdplay however, the account is not verified. I was wondering if you know, is this account actually Chris? Will be waiting for a reply! Love from the biggest Liverpool Coldplayer you will ever meet! x

The Oracle replies:

Gosh 15,105 people seem to think that it's really Chris too but no, it isn't. None of the band have a personal twitter account. When they do tweet it's via the only official coldplay twitter.

February 16, 2012 - submitted by Grace, United States of America

Q. Hi Oracle! I have realized that in all of Coldplay's interviews Guy never talks, most of the time he's not even in the interview. I understand why Chris is always the one talking and sometimes Will or Jonny are with him, but what about Guy? By the way he's really handsome :) just saying lol.

The Oracle replies:

Never say never honey. Here's Guy only last year talking at T in the Park.

There are various videos of Guy being interviewed over the years; YouTube have quite a few for starters. Enjoy Grace!

New photos of Chris Martin attending the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in Los Angeles (26th February 2012):

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2380 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

February 6, 2012 - submitted by Russell, Germany

Q. Hi, I have asked this question repeatedly before, unfortunately without response. Following the availability of the new Charlie Brown video, can you please explain to your German fans, and me as an ex-pat living in Germany, why licencing prevents us from watching the video over here? How do we get to see this then? Emigrate to Easter Island, where it is available? Many thanks for any feedback you can give me. Cheers, Russell

The Oracle replies:

Blimey Russell, keen aren't you? The video only went up on Friday so if you have asked repeatedly and it's only Monday, you need to know Friday is Team Oracle day and I don't work weekends. Anchorman did tell our Germany based Facebook fans and mailing list subscribers that they can watch it here. The reason why is because official Vevo and YouTube music videos are not available in Germany, due to the German music collection society (like our PRS); it is out of our hands.

February 6, 2012 - submitted by Autumn, United States of America

Q. I've heard the puppets are toast, but what happened to them?

The Oracle replies:

They were sold for charity and their new owner collected them on Friday. He informed me that "they'll go under extensive physical & psychological "puppetherapy" whatever that is! He is going to take them to an expert to get them restored somewhat and promised to send photos if they go anywhere exciting. They are currently in New York. I know this because "Chris the puppet" emailed me from the departure Lounge at Heathrow yesterday from his puppet sized iPad.

February 2, 2012 - submitted by Vitor, Brazil

Q. Dear Oracle, why isn't Coldplay doing any more live performances online?

The Oracle replies:

They are but sadly Vitor, as you're not in Australia, you won't be able to see it.

There may be more in the future so just keep checking Anchorman's updates. Oh, do you mean why have we not announced any more live dates on the website? In that case, it's the same - keep an eye out for updates. Each tour has different 'legs' such as the European tour, North American tour etc. We don't announced every territory they'll be visiting simultaneously; they will appear gradually over the next year. That's the way we have always done it but that doesn't mean I can say where and when they will be playing. Nothing to report just yet.

February 2, 2012 - submitted by Karina, United States of America

Q. When did the band start to realize they wanted to become famous?

The Oracle replies:

They didn't. There's a huge difference between wanting to be successful in a band and being famous. I do know that when asked what they want to be when they grow up/leave school lots of people say they want to be famous, but more now than ever because of reality television shows. Many of them aren't particularly talented but have become celebrities. It's easy to be famous but not easy to sustain a career if there's nothing to back it up. The band wanted to make music and to make a decent living from it, that's really the only way to think when you're a musician.

February 2, 2012 - submitted by Anailil, Mexico

Q. Where is the Exhibition Room?

The Oracle replies:

The Room is now closed and we've moved the entire Exhibition to our Archive section. Check out Hypnofeed as that's where it's at now. It's all about feeding us there!

February 2, 2012 - submitted by Monique, Australia

Q. Hi Oracle, I recently heard that Coldplay are coming to Sydney, Australia, for two intimate shows. I really really want to enter to win tickets to these shows but the terms & conditions say you have to be a permanent resident of NSW and be 18 years or over. I am almost 17 and live in QLD but I would willingly travel any distance in Australia to see them. I can easily get transport and accommodation sorted accompanied by an adult guardian. I would like to know if there is anyway I can still attend??? Please please help, I really want to see them live and would do anything, I just hate not being eligible.

The Oracle replies:

I remember being of an age where I couldn't attend gigs as I couldn't get in certain venues. There are safety concerns with competitions and that's why the minimum adult age of 18 is imposed. I am sorry to say it doesn't matter how mature a person is or whether they have accommodation, the rules are there for a reason and they* will not bend them for any one individual or it wouldn't be set that way in the first place. I'm sorry it must be really frustrating but at least it is being streamed live so you'll be able to watch. *"they" is not the band by the way. We have nothing to do with terms & conditions but for what it's worth, I have organised quite a few fan events and I insist on the same rule. If it had said "unless accompanied by an adult", that would be the only way you could attend.

February 1, 2012 - submitted by Holly, United Kingdom

Q. Dear Oracle, if I was to buy tickets off of a friend would I still be able to get into the Coldplay concert at the Emirates? is there any photo ID or name ID in use (like at Glastonbury) or can I use them without this friend present?

The Oracle replies:

If you have the tickets in hand you don't need photo identification to get in to the show. It's only if you're collecting tickets from the box office that they may stipulate that at point of purchase. Please make sure you always read the small print and terms & conditions regarding tickets as rules may differ between certain venues/ticket agents.

February 1, 2012 - submitted by Caleb, Malaysia

Q. Hey Oracle, I just bought Coldplay's The Blue Room E.P for GBP 20.00 and the item is in good condition but it have a little defects on the back cover. Since this is my first time buying things online, I want to make sure that the purchase is a good purchase. Therefore, I want to ask you about The Blue Room E.P. Can you please tell me how many of them were produce and are they considered as rare items? :) Thanks in advance for your help! :)

The Oracle replies:

It would depend from which batch the cd you have is from. The initial run of the E.P was 5000 which is considered low and would make the item somewhat rare. It was re-issued a couple of years later which means it was more readily available and therefore cds from that batch wouldn't be considered to be rare. I don't have access to serial numbers so can't help you work out whether yours is from the earlier or later pressing.

February 1, 2012 - submitted by Erin, United States of America

Q. I have a question ok I've been communicating with this Scottish guy via email for almost three weeks now and he finally friended me on Facebook. Well yesterday I confirmed him and I tried to look at his profile pics. He doesn't have ONE single picture of himself. I'm 14 and he says he's 15 but now I don't know whether to believe him or not. My friends say that I should stop talking to him. What do you think? BTW big fan!!

The Oracle replies:

STOP TALKING TO HIM! I don't know how you started emailing him in the first place but I suggest you unfriend him and don't communicate with him any more. You can't report anyone just for not having a profile photo but if you know that he has been sending you any inappropriate messages, I suggest you tell someone you trust and have it investigated.

January 31, 2012 - submitted by Jeremy, Canada

Q. Dear YOU. I was wondering if you guys kept or are in possession of old props of band history or whatnot? I know those puppets are toast, but like, the bibliography cover in the LIT2 video, or stuff like that? Thanks.

The Oracle replies:

There haven't been all that many props featured in the band's videos other than the ones you mention - apart from Talk. As you may know the Strawberry Swing outfit was auctioned off in the End Of Decade Sale along with the Parachutes globe which Id say is the most important historical item. The puppets from LiTii were the only prop kept and used. They are in a bag right here in my living room but were sold for charity this week despite their absolutely battered state. They are literally held together with sticky putty and safety pins with their limbs falling off (RIP). The book in the same video wasn't real (mocked up cover) and neither was the record in Christmas Lights (mocked up centre). The band's stuff goes in to storage as there's such a lot of it. There's not always sentimental value to warrant anyone keeping it at home for example. They were sorry to see many of their guitars go in the auction but at the same time, happy to raise money for charity. It got to the stage where it wasn't practical keeping everything. It's not like they saw it all given it was in storage. That said, the aforementioned auction means there's not as much as there was.

January 31, 2012 - submitted by Lilac, United Arab Emirates

Q. Where has Roadie #42 gone? I miss his blog posts.

The Oracle replies:

He will back before you know it. January was downtime for the band and the crew. There has been activity but for the most part it was a month off. #42 only blogs when he has something to share with us all and in reality there's not been much to tell.

January 31, 2012 - submitted by Bowen, United Kingdom

Q. Hey-o Oracle, I'm slightly confused, because in a question you said that they've never played Parachutes or Reign of Love? When I have a recording of Reign of Love from the Izod Center in New Jersey (10.27.2008) and I could have sworn that I saw a setlist over at coldplaying.com where Chris played Parachutes right after finishing Yellow?

The Oracle replies:

Well strictly speaking I didn't say "never" I said that I was pretty sure there was one song left off. Anyway, you're right though. You see, I have a vague recollection of Parachutes being played but couldn't picture it. It wouldn't surprise me if it was played on their first tour because they obviously had fewer songs to play back then. I haven't seen Reign Of Love played live though. I have seen videos that say Lovers In Japan/Reign Of Love online but I suspect that was because that's how it's listed on the album. I honestly think you must have seen the one time they ever played it.

January 30, 2012 - submitted by Jean, Puerto Rico

Q. Dear Oracle, my question is: Why haven't the boys played U.F.O., Don't Let It Break Your Heart and Up With The Birds live? They are part of the album and I feel as if they've been left out, please answer, back to you now.

The Oracle replies:

They have never played all the songs from an album. I'm pretty sure there was one song from each of the first four albums left out (Parachutes from Parachutes, A Whisper from AROBTTH, Twisted Logic from X&Y and Reign of Love from Viva la Vida). I guess being part of an album doesn't necessarily mean part of a tour is a given. Some songs just don't work live or don't fit into the setlist. I think your question could be changed to why haven't the boys played those songs yet. They still may; they've got a lot of dates. U.F.O and Up With The Birds could easily be X stage additions at least. It's too early to say whether they'll make an appearance though.

January 30, 2012 - submitted by Maria P, United States of America

Q. I'm just curious after all the travel who from the band is the one that wants to practice less than usual? After a while!! Lol.

The Oracle replies:

They all like a decent amount of downtime before they get back into the studio especially after a long tour. To answer the question, other than Chris - who is the first to get into writing etc. I'd say it's a pretty close run thing but maybe Guy, by a tiny bit.

January 30, 2012 - submitted by Karl, Lebanon

Q. Dear Oracle who never answers my questions, on the demo cassette tape of Ode to Deodorant is written the number of Phil Harvey the fifth member of Coldplay since the demo was sent to promoters. Does he still have the same number?

The Oracle replies:

To be honest I didn't reply because I assumed that if you wanted a quick answer, you'd have just called the number? No, Phil changed his number years ago. He sent it as he was their manager at the time.

January 26, 2012 - submitted by Mark, United Kingdom

Q. Hi Oracle, I am the drummer in Viva La Coldplay (A Coldplay Tribute Band from Liverpool/Manchester). I was recently given a pair of Will's drumsticks (well used) and as a prized possession I wanted to make sure these are Will's (given to me after a show), so my question is could you tell me what sticks Will uses and are they modified in any way? I've searched the internet with little joy! As a second part to my question, how often would will change his sticks? Kind regards Mark.

The Oracle replies:

Bash - Will's drum tech - told me that Will uses Pro Mark 5b American Hickory wood tips. He gets through 4 or 5 per show. Sometimes they may paint a pair but there are no other modifications.

January 26, 2012 - submitted by Sajni, United Kingdom

Q. I was looking online to see if I could buy the Saftey EP and I was shocked to find that it is about £1000 - £3000 I was just wondering why it is so expensive? Is it because it is now an antique item and because they have stopped making the CD's? Thanks!!

The Oracle replies:

Not exactly no. There were only 500 copies of the Safety EP pressed up back in 1998 and none since. That makes the EP an incredibly rare and much sought after item which is why the price is so high.

January 25, 2002 - submitted by Oscar, Sweden

Q. When I saw Coldplay at Globen, Stockholm 2008 Chris Martin said to the audience that The Scientist originally was written by Metallica. This is a piece of info that is nowhere to be found on the internet. Rather the opposite. Was this just a joke by Chris?

The Oracle replies:

This is a fine example of Chris' sense of humour of which there are hundreds of examples. It must be hard sometimes to know what's true and what's not but Metallica are (almost) as far away as you can get from Coldplay so I assure you this is a 100% joke.

January 25, 2012 - submitted by Marco, Italy

Q. How many questions do you receive in a day? Marco

The Oracle replies:

A gazillion trillion! Erm, it usually depends. More during weekends and holidays. Lots during touring. I guess the average is still 100+.

January 25, 2012 - submitted by Carolyn, Indonesia

Q. If I will reborn, I would like be Chris Martin. The question is, may I pick another job besides musicians? Kindly advise me, Oracle. ;)

The Oracle replies:

I'm too intrigued as to why you want to be Chris if you don't want to be a musician? I'm pretty sure the way of the universe goes that you don't get reborn as someone who already exists or has existed... If indeed anyone is ever reborn of course.

January 24, 2012 - submitted by Melanie, United Kingdom

Q. There is an episode of The Simpsons with Coldplay in it, was that actually Chris Martin's voice? Thanks, Huge fan of Coldplay!!

The Oracle replies:

Many episodes of The Simpsons feature celebrity guests; sometimes they play characters and sometimes they play themselves. There are occasions where a celebrity is impersonated but in Chris' case, it was indeed Chris.

January 24, 2012 - submitted by Harja, Netherlands

Q. Dear Oracle, In some songs, it looks like Guy and Jonny are not singing live. Is this true? If so, why? Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

I have never noticed that myself. All 4 of the guys sing live and I assure you that no-one is miming "live" - ever.

January 24, 2012 - submitted by Oscar, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle! My question is this: One of my favorite songs is Brothers and Sisters, and I've heard other versions of the song, so I was wondering if the band ever released it. Thanks, and I hope you answer my question.

The Oracle replies:

As far as I know there are only 3 versions out there; a demo that was never released, the Fierce Panda single that was and the later version that appeared on the Trouble single. *Thanks for pointing out the 3rd version Polli.

January 24, 2012 - submitted by Radhika, India

Q. Hey I just watched The Nappies video and I found it hilarious! When did Coldplay make that video?

The Oracle replies:

The band recorded the video for fun in anticipation of Chris' first born child. We first showed it on the website back in May 2004 in celebration of her arrival.

January 23, 2012 - submitted by Natalia, Colombia

Q. Hello, I always see that Chris uses the same blue shirt and pink, but I think it's always the same, so my question is, Chris has many blue shirts are the same or always the same as they wash them?

The Oracle replies:

As with every tour, there are more than one of each outfit for each band member. Chris has several tees but they are laundered after each sow and rotated.

January 23, 2012 - submitted by Wde Le, Netherlands

Q. Q. Hello Oracle! Why is the Safety - EP called Safety? There is no song on it that's called Safety. So: why?

The Oracle replies:

Well, there doesn't have to be a song with the title of an EP or album but in answer as to why, it's because when the photo of the cover was developed, the word safety was still visible on the camera film. From negative to print it remained.

January 23, 2012 - submitted by Evelien Coolens, Belgium

Q. Hello, I was just wondering, is this Chris' handwriting? I bought this a couple of years ago and it has bothered me ever since. If it is, this release must be genuine, right?

The Oracle replies:

No, that isn't Chris' handwriting, this is.

January 19, 2012 - submitted by Tarang, Malaysia

Q. Hey Oracle, Is there any possibility of Coldplay combining all their unreleased songs into one album? I'm sure a lot of the fans would love it! :)

The Oracle replies:

That would be a box set! There are dozens and dozens if unreleased songs. They would never combine them all for an album. I'm sure fans would love it but the band would probably agree that they remain unreleased for a reason; they weren't happy to release them in the first place. That said, some songs may be reincarnated, resurrected or restructured in the future. Old songs can sometimes lie forgotten until a time when a new song breathes new life into an old one.

January 19, 2012 - submitted by Paula, Brazil

Q. Dear Oracle, hope this time you answer me! I really wish I could see Chris and Gwyneth in a duet, since both can do it very well and are so perfect together! Would be awesome. Is there any chance to happen? Haven't their ever considered this idea? Hugs from a number one fan!

The Oracle replies:

I don't like to answer personal questions about their private lives but as it happens, Chris & Gwyneth did sing together at a friend's wedding years and years ago. It's not going to happen professionally though.

January 19, 2012 - submitted by Arthur, Paraguay

Q. What is Paris, the graffiti artist's full name?

The Oracle replies:

Now that would be like me revealing who Banksy is... I know there's a certain air of mystery on Coldplay.com with certain personnel monikers and I doubt Paris would take too kindly to me telling you his name is Graham Dews, but it is.

Recent pictures of Coldplay with fans at the Bakery (early February 2012): [thanks to yellow***star]

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 2380 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

January 18, 2012 - submitted by Nick, United States of America

Q. Dear Oracle, Is there any chance that you or anybody else over there could release Coldplay's first gig? I think it's a great idea and I know you have the first gig somewhere because I saw Coldplay talking about it over the timeline. PPLLLEEAASSE?

The Oracle replies:

They did talk about the 16th January 1998 gig on the archived Timeline but we don't have the full show by any means so we can't release it in any form. Even if we did, I highly doubt the boys would want that out there in its entirety.

January 18, 2012 - submitted by Abby, United States of America

Q. Where can I find legal Clocks by Coldplay music with out having to buy it?

The Oracle replies:

Just to listen to you mean? You can listen to it if you visit our MySpace page or you'll find it on Spotify. If you're looking to download it, I would only point you in the direction of paying around 99p for it as I personally don't agree with (and never do it myself) illegal free downloading.

January 18, 2012 - submitted by Ajten, Sweden

Q. Why can't you vote for the Brits more than once? So frustrating.

The Oracle replies:

Well if you think about it if you could vote as many times as you liked, there could be people voting all day every day if they wanted to (for each artist) and it wouldn't give a very realistic figure in the voting results. I think we personally would love to win on genuine votes rather than multiple ones too. Ooh that reminds me, I must go and vote now.

January 17, 2012 - submitted by Clare, United States of America

Q. Hello Oracle! I was wondering if the Nappies was just a one time thing or if Coldplay would be doing any more joke videos. Thanks Oracle!

The Oracle replies:

I would say there have been funny videos since

January 17, 2012 - submitted by Mohamed, Egypt

Q. Dear Oracle, I hope that you answer this question, I asked a dozen questions before but of no use. Anyways, I wanted to know where the boys prefer to stay when they visit cities on tour? Do they choose specific hotels or just the nearest hotel to the gig? Thank you.

The Oracle replies:

The band have a Tour Manager who books the hotels but it's never based on how close the hotel is to the venue or airport these days. It's always a lovely hotel and they do often stay at the same places tour after tour.

January 17, 2012 - submitted by Eleanor, United States of America

Q. Hello, I was curious to know with the band doing two nights in a number of North American cities does it give the guys a chance to explore the local scene and try a restaurant or does their fame and busy schedule keep them confined to their hotel? Thanks

The Oracle replies:

They don't really have time to "explore" as such but Guy does go to local antiques shops / markets. If they have 2 shows at a venue, they will probably only be staying locally one night before leaving so there isn't all that much time to do anything. By the time they get back after a show, shower and perhaps have a late night supper they'll be up early to breakfast, train and then do it all over again. If they have a night off at a hotel they may dine there but yes, sometimes they do go out to a local recommended restaurant. On the Latin American tour there were a few occasions where both those things happened plus a couple of nights at local bars. It's all quite low key apart from one uncomfortable time when we walked into a club and they immediately started playing a Coldplay song. We didn't stay long...

January 16, 2012 - submitted by Billy, United States of America

Q. Continuing with my last question about the Viva la Vida documentary being on DVD, I think Coldplay should make a whole documentary of the group Coldplay itself. Explaining the whole history of the band and how it got started it would be an interesting thing to see.

The Oracle replies:

I'm not sure the band would like the idea of that too much given there are a few shows around that do document their history pretty well already. Your previous question however, was about making the Viva documentary available on DVD - that was a Swedish TV film so it's not going to be a DVD release.

January 16, 2012 - submitted by Marcello, Argentina

Q. Hi Oracle! I was watching the Viva la Vida doc, and at some of the first images appears Phil talking, and behind him there are some painted letters, and the first thing that came to my mind was: Mylo Xyloto. So, I wonder if they have some relation with the new album, they're pretty similar! Thank you!

The Oracle replies:

Yes, that documentary was filmed when MX was already well in the pipeline and its artwork had begun to appear around The Bakery.

January 16, 2012 - submitted by Sam, United States of America

Q. I know you answered earlier that it will be most unlikely that we see the glowbands during the summer shows, but what about at the shows in stadiums/arenas? I'm going to the July 2nd show in Atlanta at the Philips Arena, a domed stadium. Could the glowbands make an appearance?

The Oracle replies:

I have noticed a few people saying that I said that but what I actually said was "I haven't spoken to anyone about wristbands beyond the current European arena dates but... one thing I notice about all outdoor gigs (festivals etc.) is that the headline act comes on around 9pm and as the sky is still light the lighting / effects don't seem to have the full impact until it gets dark. I think the wristbands would be lost in the summer and would be a waste of time in my opinion." I would assume they will have them as they are very much a part of the MX tour but there's been no official word on any changes that may be planned. I think those kind of decisions will be happening soon though.

January 16, 2012 - submitted by Trey, United States of America

Q. Coldplay, I want to see you guys in Atlanta, GA with my girlfriend so badly. I have no money, though. What else can I do for her?

The Oracle replies:

When I was 15, my friend & I persuaded her Dad to drive up to a venue so we could stand outside in the cold to listen to a gig. The band went on an hour late because they'd flown in to Manchester from performing on TOTP in London. We stood there for hours but it was better than sitting at home knowing we were missing our favourite band perform. It might not be practical, but maybe you could make a romantic picnic and take your girlfriend to the venue after for a little listen outside? There's usually fireworks too so you would see those and hopefully hear the show. Otherwise do something special on that night. You could find out the setlist for a show and make a compilation in song order...

January 12, 2012 - submitted by Adam, United Kingdom

Q. As there are no questions to do with Will's nose, answer me this which member of the band has the largest nose (go and measure them if you have to) oh and while you're there tell them the 4th December Manchester show was amazing and I'm still wearing my wristband.

The Oracle replies:

I'm not entirely sure whether you're serious so I am assuming you're joking. Either way I am NOT going to measure the band member's noses or indeed have a close look to see who has the largest schnozzle. WARNING: Grumpy alert. Hmm, Adam, why don't you take the wristband off? It's not a watch or a bracelet and has absolutely no use at all. I'm so sorry but my pet hate is seeing someone in the summer wearing several festival wristbands like a badge of honour. It's not hygienic either. Put it somewhere safe as a keepsake by all means...

January 12, 2012 - submitted by Naomi Marshall, United States of America

Q. So... the Coldplay Greatest Hits album that has been circulating in the stores from about 4 months ago, is it official? It says, Parlophone on the sleeve and all, just wondering :)

The Oracle replies:

Stores? Parlophone logo? Hmm this is very fishy. There is NO official Greatest Hits album. If there was a) we'd have announced it and b) it would be in our Recordings section and as you can see, it isn't.

January 12, 2012 - submitted by Eirik, Norway

Q. How did you feel when you found out that Thierry Henry is going to return to Arsenal on loan?

The Oracle replies:

I couldn't care less to be honest, although Dan (our trainer) is an Arsenal fan, the rest of the band aren't so I doubt they care too much either.

January 11, 2012 - submitted by Trevor, United States of America

Q. What does Coldplay do with their unreleased songs? Do they destroy them or do they put in a vault?

The Oracle replies:

They're not Prince; there is no vault. They don't "destroy" unreleased songs, they are safely stored. As you may know, some songs that were written years ago can become reincarnated or parts of them used on other songs in the future.

Don't forget to check out your tour discussion thread if you are getting Coldplay tickets or just getting excited for the European & North American 2012 shows:

FEBRUARY 2012

8 Los Angeles, CA @ Club Nokia (iHeartRadio) [discussion] [NEW!]

APRIL 2012

17 Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place [discussion]

18 Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome [discussion]

20 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

21 Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena [discussion]

24 Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena [discussion]

25 Seattle, WA @ KeyArena [discussion]

27 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

28 San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion At San Jose [discussion]

MAY 2012

1 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

2 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion]

4 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl [discussion] [NEW!]

18 Porto, Portugal @ Dragao Stadium [discussion]

20 Madrid, Spain @ Estadio Vicente Calderón [discussion]

22 Nice, France @ Stade Charles Herman / Nikaia [discussion]

24 Turin, Italy @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

26 Zurich, Switzerland @ Letzigrund [discussion]

29 Coventry, UK @ Ricoh Stadium [discussion]

JUNE 2012

1 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

2 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

4 London, UK @ the Emirates Stadium [discussion]

7 Sunderland, UK @ the Stadium of Light [discussion]

9 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

10 Manchester, UK @ the Etihad Stadium [discussion]

22 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

23 Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center [discussion]

25 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion]

26 Houston, TX @ Toyota Center [discussion] [NEW!]

28 Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum [discussion]

29 Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena [discussion]

JULY 2012

2 Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena [discussion]

3 Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena [discussion] [NEW!]

5 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

6 Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center [discussion]

8 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

9 Washington, DC @ Verizon Center [discussion]

23 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

24 Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre [discussion]

26 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

27 Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre [discussion]

29 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

30 Boston, MA @ TD Garden [discussion]

AUGUST 2012

3 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

4 East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center [discussion]

7 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

8 Chicago, IL @ United Center [discussion]

11 St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center [discussion]

28 Copenhagen, Denmark @ Parken Stadium [discussion]

30 Stockholm, Sweden @ Olympic Stadium [discussion]

SEPTEMBER 2012

2 Paris, France @ Stade de France [discussion]

4 Cologne, Germany @ Rheinenergie Stadium [discussion]

6 The Hague, Netherlands @ Malieveld [discussion]

12 Munich, Germany @ Olympiastadion [discussion]

14 Leipzig, Germany @ Red Bull Stadium [discussion]

16 Prague, Czech Republic @ Slavia Eden Stadium [discussion]

19 Warsaw, Poland @ National Stadium [discussion]

22 Hannover, Germany @ AWD Arena [discussion]

Read also: European Stadium Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the Europe tour)

Read also: North America Tour announced! (general discussion thread for the US/Canada tour)

Read also: 2012: Live Appearances - Easy Thread Finder (last updated - 12th January 2012)

Read also: 2012 tour date rumours (please post dates for ALL countries in here)

Kit yourself up for the forthcoming MX tour and get spotted with Coldplaying's new range of merchandise! [click on the items for the full shop]

The new range of Coldplaying merchanise (unofficial of course to the official shop) has hit our stores, with our biggest range of goods so far. Prices are as low as they can be for a Cafepress shop so more people will be able to afford them. We don't take any profits for the sale of the merchandise as a result. Take a browse in one of the online stores nearest to you: UK | US | Canada | Australia | European (shipping is worldwide, but you can choose what currency to pay in) - simply alter the country dropdown menu at the top of the shop page. [thanks to TracieMorgan and zzz]