Chris Martin reacts to Satriani's copycat claim: 'I wrote 'Viva La Vida''

Coldplay's Chris Martin has told NME Radio that the similarities between their song 'Viva La Vida' and Joe Satriani's 'If I Could Fly' are entirely coincidental.

As previously reported on NME.COM, Satriani is suing Coldplay for plagiarism over the issue.

Speaking to NME Radio's Neil Cole (the full interview can be listened to below), Martin said that Coldplay have been left feeling shocked by Satriani's claims.

He said: "When these things happen it's a coincidence and we're as surprised by it as anybody else."

Martin then explained that he hadn't stolen the song and could remember precisely how he wrote it.

"Oh, I know exactly where the song ['Viva La Vida'] came from. It came from the middle of the night, on a piano. I just get embarrassed about having to talk about these things."

He also admitted feeling hurt by Satriani's allegations, saying: "I do feel a bit upset about it because I wrote the song. But, you know, these things happen. Whatever will be will be."

Despite admitting the band hadn't "had the best of days", due to the discussions about the plagiarism claim, Martin still had some positive words for Satriani, calling him an "amazing" musician.

Chris Martin talks to NME Radio: Listen to an Mp3 of the exclusive interview now.

Listen to both songs: Satriani vs Coldplay: What do you think?

Coldplay tickets:

• Sep 12, 2009 15:00 at Lancashire C.c.c., Old Trafford - Buy from Seetickets
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• Sep 16, 2009 16:00 at Hampden Park, Glasgow - Buy from Seetickets

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