The buzz surrounding British rock band Coldplay’s upcoming concert in Mumbai on January 18 and 19, 2025, is growing rapidly. Fans have been eagerly waiting for this mega event, and ticket prices reflect the craze. With prices starting at Rs 2500 and going as high as Rs 35,000, the excitement is through the roof. However, some tickets are being sold in the black market for as much as Rs 3-4 lakhs, as over 10 lakh fans are on the waiting list, hoping to get their hands on any cancellations. Let’s take a look at what makes this band so famous and how they manage to pull off these massive shows.
Coldplay’s Journey: From ‘Big Fat Noise’ to Global Superstars
Coldplay’s journey began in 1997 when five music enthusiasts at the University of London came together to form a rock band. Initially called ‘Big Fat Noise’, the band later changed its name to ‘Starfish’ and eventually settled on ‘Coldplay’. In 1998, they released their first song and have since become one of the biggest rock bands in the world.
The Band Members and Their Roles
Coldplay is known for its powerful live performances and unique sound. The band has five main members:
- Chris Martin: The lead singer, Chris is not just the voice of the band but also plays the guitar, keyboard, and piano. His talent and energy are one of the major reasons behind Coldplay’s global success.
- Jonny Buckland: The lead guitarist, Jonny also contributes to the background vocals and plays the keyboard. His guitar riffs are integral to the band’s signature sound.
- Will Champion: Will is the drummer, but like Jonny, he also takes on the role of backup vocalist during live performances. His energy on the drums keeps the rhythm of the band alive.
- Guy Berryman: Guy focuses on the bass guitar and keyboard, providing the band with its deep, resonating beats.
- Phil Harvey: The fifth member, Phil is not on stage but plays a key role as the band’s manager and creative director. He oversees the band’s tour logistics and overall direction.
Behind the Scenes: The 20-Person Crew That Travels with Coldplay
While the four members of Coldplay may be the stars on stage, the band is supported by a massive crew of around 20-25 people who help bring their concerts to life. This crew, also known as the “roadies,” plays a crucial role in ensuring that every performance goes off without a hitch. The team includes a production manager, camera director, lighting director, guitar technician, tour photographer, and many others.
In addition to their core team, Coldplay often hires local crew members for tasks like setting up the stage, managing sound, and assisting with security.
16 Guitars and an Eco-Conscious Approach
One of the most impressive things about Coldplay’s concerts is the sheer amount of equipment they travel with. For every show, the band brings along 16 guitars, including 14 regular guitars and 2 electric guitars. This ensures that they have everything they need for their high-energy performances.
The band also takes an eco-friendly approach to their shows. They are committed to reducing their environmental impact, and as part of this, they have caretakers who ensure that electricity is not wasted and that no garbage is left behind by the audience. This attention to detail extends to every aspect of their concerts, making them not just a visual and musical experience, but a mindful one as well.
Coldplay’s Fee and Love for India
Coldplay is no stranger to India. They first performed in Mumbai in 2016, and the concert was a huge hit. Chris Martin and the other members of the band have expressed their love for India multiple times on social media, and their 2025 return to Mumbai has been highly anticipated.
For each concert, Coldplay charges between Rs 20 to 50 crores, depending on the event. The ticket prices for their upcoming Mumbai concert range from Rs 2500 to Rs 35,000, with around 50,000 people expected to attend each of the two shows. With the kind of scale and excitement surrounding their concerts, it’s clear that Coldplay’s performances are worth every penny.
The Band’s Connection to India
Coldplay’s connection to India goes beyond just their concerts. In 2016, the band shot the music video for their song “Hymn for the Weekend” in Mumbai, which featured vibrant scenes from Indian streets, festivals, and landmarks. This video showcased the band’s appreciation for Indian culture, and their fans in India have only grown more devoted since.
As Coldplay prepares for their 2025 Mumbai concert, fans can expect a spectacular show filled with energy, incredible music, and a touch of the band’s signature eco-consciousness. With a team of dedicated roadies, 16 guitars, and Chris Martin’s infectious enthusiasm, this concert is sure to be one of the biggest musical events of the year.
