Michael J. Fox joined Coldplay on guitar for a performance of their hit “Fix You” at the massive UK music festival, Glastonbury. The actor celebrated this remarkable event with a heartfelt tribute to the band shared on social media.
A Heartfelt Tribute
Fox wrote, “Glastonbury all the love and thanks to the @coldplay team who took such great care of us. And many thanks to Chris, Will, Johnny, Guy, and Phil.” He added, “Oh yeah in case you were wondering…it was f*cking mind blowing. There is a time for every band and a band for every time. This is @coldplay’s time.”
Chris Martin’s Admiration
Coldplay’s frontman, Chris Martin, expressed immense admiration for Fox, directing the spotlight to him during their performance. Martin sang, “Go Johnny, go, go, go,” referencing Fox’s famous performance of Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode” in the film “Back to the Future.”
Inspiration Behind Coldplay
Martin revealed to the crowd that Fox was instrumental in the formation of Coldplay. “The main reason we’re in a band is because of watching ‘Back to the Future,’” he said. “Thank you to our hero forever and one of the most amazing people on Earth, Mr. Michael J. Fox. Thank you so much Michael, our hero.”
A Legendary Night
This was not Fox’s first time performing with Coldplay; he previously played with them during a show in 2016 in New Jersey. The night at Glastonbury, however, was particularly special, with Coldplay delivering a performance that left the audience in awe.
Coldplay’s Dominance at Glastonbury
Coldplay’s performance at Glastonbury was nothing short of spectacular. The band’s popularity was evident as people climbed scaffolding, security guards stood on emergency vehicles, and celebrities like Tom Cruise, Gillian Anderson, and Simon Pegg watched from a viewing platform. Michael J. Fox joining them to play guitar on “Fix You” added to the magic of the night.
A Unique Festival Experience
Coldplay understood the importance of making their Glastonbury performance special. They started with “Yellow” and continued with hits like “Higher Power,” “Paradise,” “The Scientist,” “Hymn For The Weekend,” and “Viva La Vida.” The setlist was stacked, and Chris Martin made it his mission to connect with every audience member.
Engaging the Audience
The band gave out wristbands that turned the whole field into a giant LED screen, launched fireworks every five minutes, and included sing-along sections in many of their songs. Martin thanked the audience for their support and acknowledged the fans who had waited by the front barriers all day.
A Sensory Experience
The production was an assault on the senses, with lasers, giant balloons, and confetti cannons creating a dizzying but exhilarating experience. Coldplay’s ability to deliver a generous, community-driven performance set them apart.
Deep Cuts and New Material
In the middle of their set, Coldplay indulged in some new material and deep cuts, including the live debut of “We Pray” featuring Nigerian star Burna Boy and British rapper Little Simz, and a vibrant rendition of “Arabesque” from their 2019 album “Everyday Life.”
A Memorable Encore
For the encore, Coldplay performed “Sparks” from their debut album “Parachutes” and improvised odes to individual fans. Martin also sang a tribute to Glastonbury co-founder Sir Michael Eavis.
Michael J. Fox- Special Appearance
The highlight of the night was Michael J. Fox’s appearance on stage. The audience went wild as Fox, in a wheelchair, joined Martin to play “Fix You” on a peach guitar. Martin explained that Fox’s 1985 film “Back To The Future” was the main reason Coldplay formed as a band.
A Defining Moment for Glastonbury 2024
This performance marked Coldplay’s fifth time headlining Glastonbury, following previous appearances in 2002, 2005, 2011, and 2016. The night ended on a high note with Tom Cruise’s one-word review: “Awesome.”