Christopher Anthony John Martin (born 2 March 1977) is an English singer, songwriter and music producer. He is best known as the vocalist, pianist and co-founder of the rock band Coldplay, which he formed with Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman and Will Champion, at University College London. They rose to global stardom through Parachutes (2000) and subsequent albums. Martin received seven Grammy Awards and nine Brit Awards as part of Coldplay. They have sold over 160 million records worldwide, becoming the most successful group of the 21st century. The Independent and the Evening Standard ranked Martin among the most influential British public figures, while American Songwriter named him one of the best male singers of the 21st century.