The New Yorker Radio Hour

U2’s Bono on the Power of Music

11 snips
Jul 4, 2025
Bono, the legendary lyricist and lead singer of U2, shares his captivating journey from Dublin's streets to global stages. He delves into the profound impact of his mother's early death on his music, considering grief as a source of inspiration. The conversation touches on the band's struggle with faith, the significance of 'Sunday Bloody Sunday' amidst political turmoil, and the broader role of music in advocating for justice. Bono also reflects on friendship's role in creativity and the importance of harmony among band members in their artistic endeavors.
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ANECDOTE

Early Ambition Fueled by Desperation

  • Bono explains megalomania mixed with desperation fueled his early ambition in U2.
  • Music became a release and sense of self after childhood challenges and distractions.
ANECDOTE

Loss Inspired Musical Growth

  • Bono turned his mother's death into a creative opening, filling that hole with music.
  • After his father's death, he found a new vocal confidence, shifting from baritone to tenor.
ANECDOTE

Band Almost Breaks up over Faith

  • The band nearly broke up over struggles between religious faith and music ambition.
  • Their manager humorously confronted them about God and legal contracts during this crisis.
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