Dave Holmes, the former manager of Coldplay, has filed a lawsuit exceeding £10 million against the band, accusing them of breaching their contract by allegedly refusing to compensate him for his services.
Dave Holmes had managed the band for over 22 years before his dismissal by the group in 2022. This came despite an apparent agreement to extend his contract, with the intention of assisting with their tenth and eleventh albums. He had also commenced preparations for their 2024-25 tours, according to legal documents.
However, Mr. Holmes now asserts that the band, comprised of frontman Chris Martin, guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman, and drummer Will Champion, claims they never agreed to the extended contract and are withholding payment for his contributions to the albums and tour preparations.
In response to these allegations, the longtime manager, reportedly feeling ‘betrayed’ by the band, has initiated legal action against Coldplay in the UK High Court.
Mr. Holmes is seeking the band’s compliance with the contract, which includes payment of the commissions he was entitled to, as specified in the agreement. He also demands compensation for the ‘loss and damage equivalent to the profits’ he would have earned and all dues from previous contracts.
Furthermore, Mr. Holmes is insisting that Coldplay, one of the highest-selling musical acts in history, confirm their agreement to the contract for the tenth and eleventh albums.
Representatives for Coldplay have responded by stating that Mr. Holmes’ management contract had expired at the conclusion of 2022, at which point they opted not to renew it.
“The matter is now in the hands of Coldplay’s lawyers, and the claims are being vigorously disputed,” added the band’s spokesperson.
