https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKNxeF4KMsY Before he was busy consciously uncoupling and writing concept albums about the subject, Chris Martin wrote brilliantly wide eyed, charmingly naive and optimistic songs about love. With Yellow he heralded the advent of the singer-songwriter fronted band in the 00s. It was born to be played at dusk at festivals and thus break the band into global consciousness. And so it proved. Using the one-take video approach of Massive Attacks Unfinished Sympathy, and the man walking his own path of The Verves Bittersweet Symphony, the film tells the story of the song beautifully. Its a tale of unconditional devotion, using nature as the metaphor and was perfectly brought to life in Martins puppy dog lovesick demeanour. Coldplay would become a template that many would imitate, with their big choruses about everyday concerns and the intricacies of the heart. Ironically however, they themselves were a compilation of their idols. They channelled the middle class art school vibe of Pink Floyd, infused it with the epic grandeur of Radiohead and created a palatable, radio-friendly sound that would see them sell millions of records. Only the most heart hearted cynic could dismiss the charm and charisma that Yellow had. Using a very postmodern trope of a song within a song, I came along, I wrote a song for you, and it was called Yellow, this was an ingenious way to tell a love story. Even though this was just their second single proper, Coldplay never sounded as pure as they did here.
What makes music fantastic? Star quality, amazing music, breathtaking lyrics and the ability to bring something new to the table, even if that means a new take on the classics. That's what I love to listen to and write about.
As well as writing for What Culture, I occasionally write a blog http://tedney.blogspot.co.uk and sometimes use Twitter, but sparingly @TedneyNash