Gary Barlow has revealed how Coldplay was the 'one big act' he wanted to sign to make his BBC Children in Need concert at Manchester MEN Arena a success.
The Take That star revealed how he personally called the chart-topping band to get them onboard in order to convince other leading stars to perform at the Children in Need Rocks bash.
Barlow told the BBC: "Coldplay were my first booking for this. What happens when you're trying to put together a big group of artists for an event like this is you need one artist to say 'yes' and that really sets the ball rolling, so Coldplay were my first yes, I was delighted when they committed. Of course when you say to everyone that Coldplay is going to be on the show, then all of a sudden everybody's doors are open."
And the list of stars that subsequently signed up for the gig that was broadcast live on BBC1 on the eve of the BBC Children in Need extravaganza included Lady Gaga, Elbow, JLS, Michael Buble, JLS, Snow Patrol, N-Dubz and Hugh Laurie, all hosted by Fearne Cotton, Chris Moyles and former Dr Who star, David Tennant.
Cheryl Cole was due to perform a duet with Barlow on the show, which was also broadcast live on Radio 1, but had to pull out because of a sore throat.
BBC Children in Need CEO, David Ramsden, praised Barlow's efforts: "He has put together an amazing line-up for an unforgettable evening which will raise lots of money for disadvantaged children who desperately need our help."