Believe in Love!

Written by: Hahyeon(Summer) Kim

After 8 years, they’re back in Korea! And I was definitely there to greet Coldplay on their second visit. With stunning visuals and a beautiful (as always) setlist, two hours of nonstop jumping and singing my heart out felt effortless. Since I’m still humming their tracks, let me reminisce about this heavenly experience by introducing you to some of the highlights. I’ll be sharing four songs, so stay tuned!

     “Higher Power” – Released on May 7th, 2021, this song is part of Coldplay’s 9th studio album, Music of the Spheres. “Higher Power” quickly became a hit with its uplifting energy. The recurring line “You’ve got a higher power” makes you feel special and fills you with strength. Some of my favorite lyrics include: “You’re once in any lifetime” and “I’m a version of your love, now you’re keeping me alive.” This song is pure empowerment, bright, hopeful, and full of energy.

     “My Universe” – Released on September 24th, 2021, also from Music of the Spheres, “My Universe” is the second official single and a powerful collaboration between Coldplay and BTS. (Fun fact: I even saw Jin at this concert!) It made it to the Billboard Hot 100, becoming another major milestone for the band. This song celebrates a love without boundaries. Chris Martin once said it’s about unity and the strength of love to overcome division. I love the line: “You, you are my universe, and you make my world light up inside.” To be someone’s universe? That’s something truly beautiful.

     “Viva La Vida” – Released on May 25th, 2008, this iconic song comes from the album Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends. The title means “Long live life” in Spanish. It was Coldplay’s first song to top the Billboard Hot 100 and even won a Grammy in 2009. The lyrics depict a fallen ruler reflecting on lost power, there’s a kind of grandeur and sadness to it. Even with the serious theme, the melody is catchy and makes it easy to sing along.

     “Yellow” – Released on June 26th, 2000, from their debut album Parachutes, “Yellow” is one of the songs that first brought Coldplay into the global spotlight. It’s simple and subtle, yet powerful in its message of love and hope. For many Koreans, this song holds deeper meaning due to the Sewol-ho disaster. Though it wasn’t originally connected, “Yellow” has come to symbolize mourning and remembrance here. The yellow ribbon, representing that memory, aligns with the song’s imagery, giving it a special, poignant significance.

     I hope you enjoyed this article and that it inspires you to grab a ticket next time Coldplay’s in town. These are just a few of their incredible songs; there’s so much more to explore in their discography. I’ll be listening to their albums all over again pretty soon, and you should too.

And remember: Believe in Love!