As Coldplay takes a short break from their monumental Music of the Spheres tour, frontman Chris Martin sat down with Rolling Stone to discuss his creative process, the band’s future, and the inspirations that keep him grounded.
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The tour, which began in 2022, won’t conclude until September 2025, but Martin is already looking ahead to Coldplay’s final studio albums. Along the way, he’s been reflecting on the art of songwriting and the unexpected moments of inspiration that define his career.
Songs That “Knock on the Door”
For Martin, songwriting is a mysterious and spontaneous process. “Songs pop up everywhere,” he explains. “They wake you up, songs. They’re always a surprise to me.”
This organic approach has led to some of Coldplay’s most iconic hits, including Viva La Vida, though the journey wasn’t straightforward. “There were about six shitty Viva La Vidas, and then the actual one,” he admits, highlighting the trial-and-error nature of his craft.
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Martin resonates with the experiences of legendary songwriter Paul Simon, who he frequently speaks with. “[Paul] will say, ‘I’m not writing anything. But then I wake up and there’s a song knocking on the door. And I have to get out and do it.’ And I’m like, ‘Yeah, I know that feeling.’”
Inspiration from Other Artists
Martin credits his creative spark to the work of other artists, often finding himself humbled and inspired by their achievements. “Every year there’s someone that comes, an artist or a song, an album that just puts you in your place,” he says.
For 2024, that artist is Chappell Roan. “I hope she’s OK. It’s hard for the younger ones, especially when they’re on their own,” Martin reflects, showing empathy for rising stars navigating the industry.
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Balancing Mary Poppins and Radiohead
One of Martin’s defining traits is his love of storytelling, a passion that spans from whimsical classics to experimental rock. “I’m as obsessed with Mary Poppins as I am with Radiohead,” he shares, showcasing the eclectic influences that shape his songwriting.
This balance of light and dark, playful and profound, has been a hallmark of Coldplay’s music, allowing the band to resonate with a global audience across generations.
Coldplay’s Final Albums: A Return to Roots
Martin also reiterated Coldplay’s plan to release just two more studio albums before transitioning into a touring-only band. Reflecting on the band’s journey, he revealed that their final record will harken back to the sound of their debut album, Parachutes.
“The cover of the album, I’ve known it since 1999,” Martin says. “It’s a photograph by the same photographer that took the photo that’s the cover of our first EP.”
This nostalgic nod suggests that Coldplay intends to close their recording career where it all began, blending the intimacy of their early work with the wisdom gained over two decades.
The Legacy of Chris Martin and Coldplay
As Coldplay continues their record-breaking tour, Chris Martin’s reflections offer a glimpse into the heart of one of the world’s most beloved bands. From the spontaneity of songwriting to the influence of artists like Paul Simon and Chappell Roan, Martin’s creative process is as dynamic as the music he produces.
With two final albums on the horizon and a shift to focus solely on live performances, Coldplay is poised to leave an indelible mark on the music industry—one that honors their roots while embracing their evolution.
