Coldplay's Chris Martin persuaded Beyoncé to play Glastonbury

Coldplay frontman Chris Martin helped to persuade Beyoncé to perform a headline slot at this year's Glastonbury festival.

The 'Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall' singer is said to have calmed the US superstar's apprehension of a public backlash at the event, after her husband Jay-Z received criticism for his headline slot at the festival back in 2008.

"Chris is a bit wary of people knowing he's been so involved," festival organiser Emily Eavis told the Radio Times.

"I don't know why because it's actually cool. Chris is as loyal as they come - he'll do anything for Glastonbury. He's really an unlikely frontman. Most people are a bit more all-consumed with their own thing."

Eavis also revealed the festival's luck at being able to book Beyoncé before her schedule filled up.

"Luckily, we spoke to Beyoncé before she planned her tour this year, so she managed to put Glastonbury in her schedule, then build a European tour around it."

However, the 31-year-old event organiser conceded that it is not always that easy: "There's so much bartering and hustle with the booking agents. A lot of agents are not that keen on Glastonbury.

"They just don't get it because it doesn't pay enough money."

Glastonbury festival will take place this weekend and will include headline performances from U2, Coldplay and Beyoncé.

Digital Spy will be bringing you the latest coverage from Glastonbury festival all weekend.

> Michael Eavis promises 'best Glastonbury ever'
> In Full: Glastonbury lineup unveiled

Listen to Coldplay's 'Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall' below: