Chris Martin Explains Why Coldplay “Deserves Criticism” from Detractors

Chris Martin Addresses Critical Opinions

Chris Martin remarked that Coldplay “deserve some criticism” from detractors.

• READ MORE: Exclusive: Coldplay: 'When everything seems overwhelmingly positive, it's often because the singer needs it the most'

Since debuting with their album Parachutes in 2000 and rising to international stardom, Coldplay has faced a significant amount of backlash. However, Martin has expressed that he’s comfortable with the fact that not everyone appreciates them.

In a January 2025 cover interview with Rolling Stone, the frontman commented: “It would be terrible if we lived in a society where everyone had to (like the same thing).”

Embracing Criticism and Inner Peace

Concerning the criticism directed specifically at Coldplay, Martin elaborated: “We're a very, very easy target. We're not going to fight back. We are four white middle class men from England. We deserve to take shit for what our people did. There's a reason why we can play all over the world, and some of it isn't necessarily very healthy.”

He also shared his perspective on handling criticism: “When I speak about world peace, I'm also addressing my own inner peace.”

“Not hating yourself is a daily challenge,” he continued. “Forget about external critics – there are also internal ones. This is really our mission now: we are consciously trying to raise the flag of love, which is the approach to all things.

“There aren’t many (groups) that can advocate that philosophy to such a large audience. So we do this. And I need to hear this too, so that I don't give up and become bitter, twisted, hidden and hate everyone. I don’t want this, but it’s incredibly tempting.”

The frontman added, “Maybe the theatrical performances contribute to this,” mentioning, “It's a little bit like Disneyland in terms of, 'Okay, let's exist for a couple of hours in this space where no one hates each other.' Then said, “The second happiest place on Earth. Copyright Coldplay.”

This follows remarks from The Snuts' Jack Cochrane in November, who criticized those who dislike Coldplay, stating: “People who don't like Coldplay are uncool. They’re one of those bands that everyone pretends to be too cool to really love, but the performance, the production, and the atmosphere with everyone singing their songs was unforgettable.”

Even though some people criticize Clocks, Coldplay has made history as the only band to headline Glastonbury five times. Their Music Of The Spheres tour has also become the largest rock tour ever, with plans extending into 2025, including stops in Asia.

However, despite their clear popularity, in 2021, frontman Chris Martin mentioned that Coldplay plans to conclude their final album in 2025. He clarified his statements later, outlining a goal to finish the band's catalog after releasing 12 albums.

In a recent interview with NME, he shared more insights and described how the conclusion of the band’s new music endeavors is nearing. “Since 2008, if a song or good idea resonates with me and feels authentic, we’ll pursue it, regardless of outside opinions,” he explained, detailing the group’s current position.

“It’s 12 albums, of course, but we’re going to release it a bit later,” he said exclusively to NME in his only written interview regarding his upcoming album, Moon Music. “There is one more thing – a musical. (This is) album number 11, but it might need to come after album 12 due to the time it takes to produce musicals.

“Our last single from this album is called “All My Love.” This is the latest release. We have a theme song and then a final album titled Coldplay. I believe it will be a year late – I’m certain of it.”

He continued: “Releasing 12 albums feels very real and fulfilling. That doesn’t mean we won’t tour or finish up some compilations or outtakes. It just signifies that the main narrative has been told. This feels entirely right and reaffirms all the work we’re undertaking now.”

In another section of Rolling Stone, the band’s bassist Guy Berryman also touched on Martin’s intention to restrict the group’s discography to 12 albums, stating, “Chris will never stop writing, so I’m taking his comments with a grain of salt.”

He further noted: “We still have a long journey ahead before we retire. But having a plan is important. If you’re running a marathon, you know you have 26 miles to complete. But if someone told you, ‘Okay, start running and don’t stop,’ it becomes quite challenging to find motivation.”

In other updates, Coldplay will embark on a UK tour in the summer of 2025, featuring a series of 10 performances at London’s Wembley Stadium. Check out the complete list of tour dates below and go here to buy tickets.

Coldplay “Music Of The Spheres” Tour Dates for Europe and UK in 2025:

AUGUST 2025
18 – Hull, Craven Park Stadium
19 – Hull, Craven Park Stadium
22 – London, Wembley Stadium
23 – London, Wembley Stadium
26 – London, Wembley Stadium
27 – London, Wembley Stadium
30 – London, Wembley Stadium
31 – London, Wembley Stadium

SEPTEMBER 2025
3 – London, Wembley Stadium
4 – London, Wembley Stadium
7 – London, Wembley Stadium
8 – London, Wembley Stadium

The band has also committed that 10 percent of their proceeds will be donated to the Music Venue Trust, working to sustain the UK's grassroots music venues and support the survival and growth of future artists.

Additionally, their recent album Moon Music received a stellar four-star review from NME, described by Rhian Daly as a record that strives to “bring Martin and those like him back from the brink, one pop song at a time.”

“This resilience resonates not only in Coldplay's lyrics but also in their musical choices. Many tracks on 'Moon Music,' such as 'Jupiter' and 'Good Feelings,' fade out only to re-emerge with vigor,” the article stated. “These choices not only keep you guessing but also mirror the experience of exhausting all options just to gather the strength to move forward.”