Coldplay Launches $17 Million Retaliation in Explosive Legal Battle Against Former Manager
Coldplay retaliates with a $17 million countersuit against ex-manager Dave Holmes, responding to his previous lawsuit Chris Martin and the band take legal action in this ongoing dispute
Coldplay Dave M. Benett/Getty Images
Coldplay is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with their ex-manager, Dave Holmes, over a significant sum of $17 million. Holmes, who had been managing the band for more than twenty years, filed a lawsuit last August, claiming a breach of contract. Initially, he sought $12 million in damages, as reported by Variety.
In a turn of events, the band, led by Chris Martin, is now pursuing a countersuit against Holmes, seeking $17 million. The lawsuit encompasses several grievances, including claims of unpaid commissions relating to their upcoming 10th and 11th studio albums.
As part of their countersuit, Coldplay is highlighting $10 million in damages incurred during their Music of Spheres tour. The issues revolve around unusable bespoke stage pylons and an excessively large screen. Notably, the band is actively engaged in this tour until September 2024, as they promote their album released in October 2021.
Additionally, Holmes allegedly secured a $20 million loan from concert promoter Live Nation, purportedly utilizing the funds for a real estate venture in Canada.
On the other hand, a spokesperson for Holmes refuted the band's allegations, stating that they lack credibility. We have contacted Coldplay's team for their response.
“Coldplay is fully aware of the predicament they face regarding their defense,” stated Holmes’ representative. “Attempting to accuse Dave Holmes of non-existent ethical lapses and fabricating other misconduct charges will not divert attention from the actual matter at hand — Coldplay had a binding agreement with Dave, yet they are refusing to fulfill their obligations and it is imperative for them to compensate Dave for what is rightfully owed to him.”
Formed in 1997 after meeting at the University College of London, the band officially came into being. Coldplay has achieved remarkable success since the launch of their debut album, Parachutes, in 2000, garnering seven Grammy Awards and delivering numerous studio albums.
In December 2021, the vocalist of the hit song "Yellow" subtly suggested that the band's journey might be concluding shortly.
"Our final official album will be released in 2025, after which we plan to focus primarily on touring," he revealed during his interview with BBC Radio 2. He added, "Perhaps we will explore some collaborative projects, but our Coldplay catalog will come to a close at that point."
This wasn't the first time Martin had discussed the band's future plans. In a previous interview with Absolute Radio in October of that year, he stated, "I want to emphasize that this is not a joke. After releasing 12 albums, our catalog will reach its end. However, we will always have the desire to perform live together. Similar to the Rolling Stones, it would be incredible if we could still be touring well into our late 70s. It would be a marvelous experience, and we welcome anyone who wants to join us."
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