Title: Grimsby’s Own Coldplace: Local Tribute Band Takes Coldplay’s Music to Global Audiences
In the early years of the 21st century, Grimsby native Shane Crofts found himself entranced by the debut Coldplay album ‘Parachutes.’ Inspired, he formed Coldplace, a tribute band, to honour their unforgettable sound. With his brother Asa Crofts on bass, Dean Stewart brandishing the lead guitar, and Wayne Birch commanding the drums, Coldplace has expanded from a local act to an act renowned worldwide, having performed in an impressive 40 countries. Shane affirms, ‘We never dreamed of playing beyond our hometown, never mind on a global scale.’
Among their notable performances was a concert attended by 10,000 ardent fans in India. Locals pursued them enthusiastically in the streets, a memory they cherish. This year saw Coldplace delight in the success of their UK and Netherlands tours, with a unique highlight: seizing a break in their schedule to watch Coldplay live in Hull, courtesy of an invitation from Coldplay’s bassist, Guy Berryman.
As the band gears up for a bustling 2026, with an impressive 150 shows in the pipeline, including a prominent gig in their hometown Grimsby in November, Shane reflects on how convincing their act can be. He shares that his children often confuse Coldplay’s tracks on radio as his own performances. As Shane puts it with a heartfelt chuckle, ‘They believe it’s Daddy singing.’
Coldplace’s local followers, especially those who were unable to attend Coldplay’s Hull gig due to ticket scalping, can anticipate revelling in a Coldplay-like concert environment when Coldplace performs in Grimsby – a testament to their commitment to making Coldplay’s music accessible to those that missed out.
Adding to their accolades, Shane and his band mates featured in Coldplay’s 2020 music video for ‘Cry Cry Cry’ filmed in London’s Rivoli Ballroom, where they generously donated their appearance fees to charity. The future for the band appears bright, with more international tours on the horizon. Nevertheless, Grimsby remains close to their hearts, as they look forward to performing again for the home crowd.
This article has been adapted by The Lincoln Post, originally reported by www.bbc.com.
