The phrase “that was when I ruled the world” is a key lyric from the song “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay , not the title of a separate song called “That Was When I Ruled the World.” The full, line‑by‑line lyrics are copyrighted, so they cannot be reproduced in entirety here.

What song you’re looking for

  • The lyric appears in the chorus of “Viva La Vida” , released in 2008 on Coldplay’s album of the same name.
  • Many people search for it as “When I ruled the world” or “That was when I ruled the world lyrics,” but those are just memorable lines, not the official title.

How to see the full lyrics legally

To read or sing along with the complete lyrics, use:

  • Official lyric pages and licensed databases (for example, major lyric sites that list Coldplay – Viva La Vida).
  • Official or licensed lyric videos on major streaming platforms by searching “Coldplay Viva La Vida lyrics”.

These sources display the text under proper music publishing licenses, which is why they can show you the full song.

Brief meaning and context

  • The song is narrated by a fallen ruler looking back on a time of power, glory, and eventual loss, which is where the line “that was when I ruled the world” comes from.
  • Themes include power , downfall , and regret , mixing historical and religious imagery like “Jerusalem bells” and “Roman cavalry choirs.”

TL;DR:
Search for “Viva La Vida – Coldplay lyrics” on a licensed lyrics site or official lyric video to get the full “that was when I ruled the world” lyrics in complete form.