Coldplay - Viva la Vida

"Viva la Vida" is an iconic song by the British rock band Coldplay, released as the second single from their fourth studio album, "Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends," which hit the music scene in 2008. Written by the band's members—lead vocalist Chris Martin, guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman, and drummer Will Champion—the track was produced by Brian Eno and Markus Dravs.

The title "Viva la Vida" is Spanish and translates to "Long Live Life" or "Live the Life" in English. The song's lyrics carry introspective and enigmatic themes, exploring the complexities of power, the ephemeral nature of life, and reflections on one's actions and consequences. The inspiration behind the song reportedly stemmed from historical figures, with some speculation linking it to the French Revolution leader, Louis XVI, and others suggesting an influence from the life and art of the Mexican painter Frida Kahlo.

The musical composition of "Viva la Vida" features a distinctive and captivating orchestral sound, thanks to its prominent string arrangements and uplifting melody. Coldplay incorporated orchestral elements, such as cello, violin, and timpani, which added a grand and cinematic feel to the song. The band stepped away from their traditional guitar-driven sound, embracing a more experimental and textured approach, which contributed to the song's distinctiveness.

Upon its release, "Viva la Vida" achieved massive commercial success worldwide and received widespread critical acclaim. It topped the charts in several countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States, and became one of Coldplay's most successful singles to date. Notably, the song won the prestigious Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 2009, solidifying its impact and popularity.

The success of "Viva la Vida" significantly boosted the album's performance, cementing its status as one of Coldplay's most successful and celebrated works. Fans and critics praised the band for their willingness to explore new musical territories while maintaining their distinctive artistic identity.

Over the years, "Viva la Vida" has remained a centerpiece of Coldplay's live performances, often eliciting a powerful response from audiences. Its uplifting and anthemic nature makes it a concert favorite, with crowds enthusiastically singing along to the infectious chorus.

The song's continued popularity has solidified its place as one of Coldplay's signature tracks and a timeless classic in the world of modern rock music. "Viva la Vida" continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, capturing the essence of human emotions and the ever-present pursuit of meaning and purpose in life.

## ***LYRICS***

Source: LyricFind

I used to rule the world

Seas would rise when I gave the word

Now in the morning, I sleep alone

Sweep the streets I used to own

I used to roll the dice

Feel the fear in my enemy's eyes

Listen as the crowd would sing

Now the old king is dead, long live the king

One minute, I held the key

Next the walls were closed on me

And I discovered that my castles stand

Upon pillars of salt and pillars of sand

I hear Jerusalem bells a-ringin'

Roman Cavalry choirs are singin'

Be my mirror, my sword and shield

My missionaries in a foreign field

For some reason, I can't explain

Once you'd gone, there was never, never an honest word

And that was when I ruled the world

It was a wicked and wild wind

Blew down the doors to let me in

Shattered windows and the sound of drums

People couldn't believe what I'd become

Revolutionaries wait

For my head on a silver plate

Just a puppet on a lonely string

Oh, who would ever want to be king?

I hear Jerusalem bells a-ringin'

Roman Cavalry choirs are singing

Be my mirror, my sword and shield

My missionaries in a foreign field

For some reason, I can't explain

I know Saint Peter won't call my name

Never an honest word

But that was when I ruled the world

Oh-oh-oh, oh-oh, oh

Oh-oh-oh, oh-oh, oh

Oh-oh-oh, oh-oh, oh

Oh-oh-oh, oh-oh, oh

Oh-oh-oh, oh-oh, oh

I hear Jerusalem bells a-ringin'

Roman Cavalry choirs are singin'

Be my mirror, my sword and shield

My missionaries in a foreign field

For some reason I can't explain

I know Saint Peter won't call my name

Never an honest word

But that was when I ruled the world