Today marks a special moment in music history: 25 years since Coldplay released their iconic hit Yellow. First launched on June 26, 2000, Yellow wasn’t just a breakout single, but it was the song that introduced the world to a band that would go on to shape 21st-century rock and pop music.
A Song That Started It All
When Yellow first hit the airwaves, it stood out with its haunting simplicity and raw emotion. The melody was gentle yet powerful, and Chris Martin’s voice carried a sincerity that connected instantly with listeners. The lyrics, though seemingly cryptic, felt deeply personal, especially the now-famous line:
“Look at the stars, look how they shine for you.”
That single lyric, repeated with such tenderness, became a generational anthem for love, longing, and beauty in the everyday. It’s no wonder Yellow remains one of Coldplay’s most beloved songs and a highlight of their live performances to this day.
According to Chris Martin, the song was born late one night in Wales during a recording session. Inspired by a clear starry sky and, amusingly, a yellow phone book, the lyrics came together almost accidentally, but ended up launching one of the most remarkable careers in modern music.
Who Are Coldplay?
Formed in 1996 in London, Coldplay consists of Chris Martin (vocals, piano), Jonny Buckland (guitar), Guy Berryman (bass), and Will Champion (drums). Their early sound was often compared to bands like Radiohead and Travis, but Coldplay quickly carved out a niche of their own with emotional, anthemic songs and an evolving style that blended rock, pop, and later, electronic influences.
Over the past two decades, they’ve released nine studio albums, including:
- Parachutes (2000)
- A Rush of Blood to the Head (2002)
- X&Y (2005)
- Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends (2008)
- Mylo Xyloto (2011)
- Ghost Stories (2014)
- A Head Full of Dreams (2015)
- Everyday Life (2019)
- Music of the Spheres (2021)
Each album brought something new, and their concerts have become known for their high energy, colorful visuals, and a sense of togetherness that resonates with fans around the world.
Their Legacy
Coldplay has sold over 100 million records globally and continues to be one of the most-streamed bands of all time. From the emotional pull of Fix You to the upbeat energy of Viva La Vida and recent collaborations with artists like BTS, the band has shown a remarkable ability to evolve while staying true to their emotional core.
They are also known for their activism. The band has supported causes like climate change awareness, fair trade, and global education, often using their platform to make a positive impact. Their current tour is one of the most environmentally conscious ever, using kinetic floors and bikes to generate electricity at live shows.
