Coldplay's drummer Will Champion told 6 Music playing festivals gave the band "a chance to win people over". He added, "There's also a strong possibility that people have already made their mind up about you - and no matter how well you play they're not going to be happy about it." Glastonbury, which also saw U2 and Beyonce play headline slots in June, is taking a fallow year in 2012.
In The Saleroom - The Beatles showed their support for the US civil rights movement by refusing to play in front of segregated audiences, a contract shows. The document, which is to be auctioned next week, relates to a 1965 concert at the Cow Palace in California. Signed by manager Brian Epstein, it specifies that The Beatles "not be required to perform in front of a segregated audience". The agreement also guarantees the band payment of $40,000 (£25,338). Other requirements include a special drumming platform for Ringo Starr and the provision of 150 uniformed police officers for protection.
On The Big Screen (1) - The 25th anniversary production of The Phantom of the Opera will be screened live to cinemas around the UK on 2 October. Around 250 cinemas will broadcast the production, which is taking place at the Royal Albert Hall. In addition, 500 cinemas in North America will also screen the event, which celebrates 25 years since the show originally opened in London.
Sierra Boggess and Ramin Karimloo are to star as Christine and The Phantom in the production, which is being staged by Gillian Lynne and will feature a cast and orchestra of more than 200. The production is being produced by Cameron Mackintosh.
On The Big Screen (2) - Martin Scorsese's profile of the late Beatle George Harrison is to have its UK premiere in Liverpool. George Harrison: Living in the Material World will be screened at the city's Foundation for Art and Creative Technology (FACT) on 2 October. The film was made in collaboration with Harrison's widow Olivia and follows his life from his upbringing in Liverpool. It includes interviews with Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and Yoko Ono.
(Jim Evans)
