Irish band U2 marked their 50th anniversary on Friday by returning to Mount Temple Comprehensive School in Dublin to perform a surprise seven-song set on the school yard for hundreds of students, according to reports from RTÉ News and the Dutch news service NOS. The band opened the midday mini-concert with “I Will Follow,” a track from their 1980 debut album, before performing other catalog staples including “With or Without You.”
Origins at Mount Temple and Early Auditions
The band’s formation dates back exactly fifty years to an audition process initiated by 14-year-old Larry Mullen, who posted a notice on a school bulletin board seeking musicians to start a group. Auditions were held shortly afterward on September 25, 1976, at Mullen’s family home. Frontman Bono nearly skipped the audition because he was older than Mullen and worried he wouldn’t fit in, while bassist Adam Clayton secured his spot despite not yet knowing how to play the instrument, chosen because he had the best hair. Initially performing under the name Feedback, the lineup brought together Mullen, singer Paul Hewson (Bono), guitarist David Evans (The Edge), and Clayton.
Album Promotion and Live Pop-Up Performances
The impromptu schoolyard performance served as promotional activity for U2’s upcoming studio album, Carnival of Lights, scheduled for release in November. The new record features a duet between Bono and late singer Dolly Parton, who passed away the previous month. During the school appearance, Bono referenced the band’s song “Vertigo”—which opens with the Spanish counting phrase “uno, dos, tres, catorce”—joking to the students, “If you want to take Spanish lessons, don’t take them from me.” Following the appearance at Mount Temple, the band moved into central Dublin later that same day for a secondary pop-up performance from a café balcony.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was U2 founded? The band formed in September 1976 following an ad posted by Larry Mullen at Mount Temple Comprehensive School.
- What songs did U2 play at their anniversary gig? The band performed a seven-song set that included “I Will Follow” and “With or Without You.”
- What is the title of U2’s upcoming album? Their new album, Carnival of Lights, releases in November and features a collaboration with Dolly Parton.
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