As I approached Sydney’s Accor Stadium, a wave of apprehension washed over me. It was the much-anticipated US election night, and I was gearing up for a performance by Coldplay.
The vibrant atmosphere created by the animated, colorful crowd set a festive tone that was impossible to ignore. I couldn’t help but feel a creeping enchantment amongst the devoted fans, all gathered for an unforgettable evening of music (6 November).
Fellow Coldplay enthusiasts were scattered throughout the venue, and the band had ingeniously incorporated kinetic dance floors and exercise bikes into their set-up to power the spectacular lights that would soon illuminate the stadium. Full marks for environmental sustainability, Coldplay!
Shortly after arriving, I was given a wristband designed to flash in sync with the music, alongside a pair of 3D-style glasses that transformed the lights into a cascade of rainbow-colored love hearts. The excitement in the air was palpable.
Ayra Starr, a rising star in the music scene, was commanding the stage as I made my entrance. Initially, her selection as opening act by Chris Martin and the band raised eyebrows, but her infectious Afro-infused R&B sounds quickly captivated the audience. It was clear she had the crowd eating out of her hand.
As night fell, she encouraged everyone to turn on their phone lights, instantly igniting the stadium in a sea of twinkling illumination. At that defining moment, it became unmistakably clear that this crowd was in for a spectacular night of entertainment.
The lights dimmed dramatically, and the iconic theme from ‘E.T.’ filled the air as anticipation surged. Chris Martin made his grand entrance, pausing to kiss the stage in a gesture that suggested reverence, prompting the audience’s wristbands to come alive with vibrant red hues, transforming the stadium into a mesmerizing spectacle.
Instantly, the band launched into ‘Higher Power’, prompting fans to spring to their feet, hands raised high, as if engaging in a joyous act of worship towards the mesmerizing wristbands. By the time they played ‘Paradise’, even the most stoic attendees could not resist the magnetic charm of Martin and his bandmates.
In a heartwarming moment, Martin paused mid-performance to assist a small five-year-old over the barrier, ensuring they too could enjoy the view. With a playful grin, he quipped, “Would you like some Coke? The soft drink, I mean.” It was clear he relished the fun of the occasion.
Taking a seat at the piano, Chris began the first notes of ‘The Scientist’. The woman next to me, who had been teary-eyed since the show kicked off, finally let her emotions overflow. That woman may or may not have been my wife.
The band’s transition to the ‘B’ stage for a simplified rendition of ‘Viva La Vida’ showcased their impressive ability to deliver a full sound with a minimalist setup, just a piano, bass, floor tom, and an enormous bell. This astonishing effect was greatly enhanced by around 60,000 fans providing powerful backing vocals.
The production itself deserves special mention. While I may not know the name of the lighting and production designer, their creativity should certainly come with a raise. This was far more than just a concert; it was an immersive reality, so finely tuned that it felt almost transcendent, allowing us to escape our everyday lives as we were enveloped by the music and light.
The setlist spanned their extensive catalogue of beloved hits, both old and new, including crowd favorites like ‘Clocks’, ‘My Universe’, and the song that catapulted them to fame, ‘Yellow’. As ‘Yellow’ echoed through the stadium, many fans reminisced about the band’s ascent from humble beginnings as four friends in a London pub.
Positioned on the expansive stage, the band’s tight arrangement allowed us to visualize those youthful days when they first played such songs, believing they had crafted something worthwhile. The sheer fact that they’re now performing for tens of thousands in a stadium after 24 years speaks volumes about their enduring legacy.
Martin, along with his fellow Coldplay members – guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman, and drummer Will Champion – have created a remarkable collection of pop-rock melodies that resonate worldwide.
While the non-Martin members may not command the spotlight with the same flair as their frontman, they execute their roles with impeccable precision, fully aware that this is, ultimately, Chris Martin’s show – and he shines brightly at its center.
Martin possesses a unique talent for making his presence feel as casual as slipping on jeans and a T-shirt while effectively leading one of the biggest bands worldwide. His charisma is magnetic; he is effortlessly funny, endearing, and every note he sings seems to come from the heart.
At one powerful moment, I watched him kneel center-stage as fireworks erupted around him. Instead of witnessing a seasoned pro merely going through motions, it struck me that I was witnessing an artist still enamoured with his craft, reveling in what many would deem the ultimate dream profession.
His remarkable ability to engage the crowd became evident as he led an electrifying chorus of ‘A Sky Full Of Stars’, drawing us closer as he promised to ‘Fix You’.
Coldplay’s Music Of The Spheres world tour represents a colossal event. It is bold, beautiful, imbued with hope, and occasionally a touch whimsical, highlighted by stunning production that leaves a lasting impact. If Coldplay sought to cultivate a loyal following, they would undoubtedly find 60,000 willing disciples within Sydney tonight – and honestly, who could blame them?
– written by Mark Owen
In front of tens of thousands, still sharing their passion for music, is a testament to their authenticity and connection with fans.
**Interview with Concert Attendee: Alex Johnson**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Alex! You recently attended Coldplay’s Music Of The Spheres World Tour at the Accor Stadium in Sydney. Can you tell us about your experience?
**Alex:** Absolutely! It was a surreal experience. As I approached the stadium, the energy was electric. Despite the significant events happening in the world that night, the excitement for Coldplay overshadowed everything.
**Editor:** You mentioned the unique setup with kinetic dance floors and exercise bikes. How did that impact the experience?
**Alex:** It was incredible! Knowing that our movements contributed to the lighting effects created a sense of unity among the crowd. The combination of sustainability and entertainment was genius. It made the whole event feel more interactive and special.
**Editor:** What did you think of the opening act, Ayra Starr?
**Alex:** She was phenomenal! Initially, there were some doubts about her being the opener, but she absolutely won the crowd over. Her energy and powerful voice set a lively tone for the evening. By the time she lit up the stadium with everyone’s phone lights, we were all ready for the main event!
**Editor:** Speaking of the main event, what was it like when Chris Martin and the band took the stage?
**Alex:** The moment he appeared was magical. The whole stadium lit up in red as the intro music played, and it felt like we were all in it together. When they opened with ‘Higher Power’, the crowd went wild! It was impossible not to be swept away by the joy and excitement.
**Editor:** It sounds like there were some memorable moments throughout the concert. Any highlights that stood out to you?
**Alex:** Definitely! Chris helping that little boy over the barrier was heartwarming. It showed his genuine kindness and connection with the fans. And when he sat down to play ‘The Scientist’, the emotions in the crowd were palpable—especially around me—let’s just say a few tears were shed!
**Editor:** It sounds like a truly immersive experience. Would you say this concert was more than just a music event?
**Alex:** Absolutely! It was an experience that transcended just a concert—between the stunning visuals, the communal energy of the crowd, and the authenticity of the performance, it felt like we were all part of something bigger. Coldplay has an incredible ability to bring people together through their music.
**Editor:** Thank you, Alex! Your insights truly capture the magic of live music, especially a Coldplay concert.
**Alex:** Thank you for having me! Can’t wait to relive it all through the next tour!