Coldplay and Imagine Dragons are two of the biggest bands of the 21st century so naturally, fans are divided about who’s better. They’ve got the hits, they’ve broken the records and they’ve sold out countless shows in L.A. and beyond. So when the dust settles, who stands tall as the band of all bands? The numbers are in, but ultimately you get to decide for yourself — read on to find out more…
Round 1: Touring Power
One thing’s for sure, both bands are touring powerhouses who know how to put on a show. We’re talking huge stage productions, mind-blowing visuals and setlists packed with nothing but smash hits. But who’s really winning the numbers game?
From the Hollywood Bowl to the Banc of California Stadium, both Coldplay and Imagine Dragons have sold out legendary music venues in L.A., but it’s Coldplay who get the last laugh when it comes to worldwide tour gross. They’ve pocketed over $1.5 billion in tour revenue compared to Imagine Dragons’ $177 million (plus they take the cake thanks to those LED wristbands).
Round 2: Streaming Dominance
Here are the bands’ most streamed songs based on Spotify stats:
1. Something Just Like This (3.23 billion) vs. Believer (2.4 billion)
2. Yellow (3.13 billion) vs. Thunder (1.9 billion)
3. Viva La Vida (2.84) vs. Radioactive (1.8 billion)
4. The Scientist (2.42 billion) vs. Demons (1.7 billion)
5. A Sky Full of Stars (2.02 billion) vs. Whatever It Takes (1.5 billion)
Round 3: Honors and Awards
Coldplay take the trophy case when it comes to awards too. They’ve snagged seven Grammys — compared to Imagine Dragons one win — and they come out on top at the Billboard awards, EMAs and VMAs.
And the winner is…
Based on stats alone, Coldplay is the MVP. But are all these facts and figures the ultimate measure of greatness, or does true impact lie beyond the numbers? That’s where performances like this Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons tribute concert come in. It’s a 60-minute show where hits like “Viva La Vida” and “Believer” are reimagined side by side on strings.
Several of these tributes are coming to Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Koreatown over the coming months: August 9, September 27 and October 11. Hear the hits, pick your winner — grab your tickets here.