A Rebel Yell That Stood the Test of Time

 

It’s that time of year when we think of all things Irish.  Soda bread, shamrocks, lyrical poetry, jigs, and of course, who could forget the best Irish import of all, U2.

U2 was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.  That’s how long they have been around . It all started in the kitchen of Adam Clayton,the band’s bassist, in 1975.  Fourteen-year-old Paul Hewson was just a rebellious kid then, known for his fighting ability.  He was later given the nickname Bono Vox, which means “a good voice” in Latin.  It later got shortened to Bono.

Since then, the group has evolved from a group of talented teenagers to a striking force in rock music.   They have sold more then 170 million albums worldwide, and have won more Grammies than any rock band in history.

Known for his political consciousness and impassioned, anthemic vocals, Bono has become well-respected in the world for his activism which extends beyond the band.  Dave Evans (The Edge) has been studied by musicians for his ability to produce a unique, piercing sound on the electric guitar.  

U2 fans, rock lovers, and even just the curious will find the pictorial U2 by U2interesting.   It chronicles their journey from an anarchic punk band to superstardom in private detail through photographs, journal entries, letters, and more.

For those who want to learn more about Irish musical ability, and why it is such a force to be reckoned with, check out the documentary From a Whisper to a Scream: the Living History of Irish Music.