MANILA, Philippines — The return of British pop-rock band Coldplay to the Philippines was a welcome sight to many Filipinos, but it was particularly special for one fan who had waited years to see them up close.
Before the halfway part of Coldplay's set at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan, the band's lead vocalist, Chris Martin, remained on the extended stage after performing "Hymn for the Weekend" to read placards and signs some fans brought with them.
Some shouted the name of the K-pop group BTS — Coldplay would later perform their collaboration song "My Universe" — while one came all the way from Boston to see the band.
However, the sign that caught Chris' eye was one that said, "Seven years ago I was in the back, now I'm in front." Coldplay last held its concert "A Head Full of Dreams" in the Philippines in 2017.
Chris went one step further and invited the fan onstage with him. The clearly shaken fan introduced herself as Chris announced that four more lucky fans in the arena's farthest row would be joining them too.
While waiting for the other fans to arrive, Chris asked the fan what song she would like the band to perform, a request fans of any performer would envy.
The fan requested "Everglow" from Coldplay's 2015 album "A Head Full of Dreams," which it had toured during the band's last visit, and Chris happily obliged as he turned the song into a tribute for friends of the band who have passed away.
Everyone in the majority gushed as the fan sat beside Chris in front of the keyboard as he sang the touching lyrics of "Everglow."
The four fans managed to make their way down just as Chris was preparing for another chorus, and all together, they wrapped up the song as a key memory for everyone that took part in it.
Apart from "My Universe," Coldplay also played their other hits, such as "The Scientist," "Viva La Vida," "Hymn for the Weekend," "Yellow," "Fix You" and "A Sky Full of Stars." — Video by Jan Milo Severo, editing by Anjilica Andaya
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