Top secrets about U2 and Bono

Paul David Hewson (born 10 May 1960), known by the nickname Bono (/ˈbɒnoʊ/ BON-oh), is an Irish singer-songwriter and activist.^[1] He is a founding member, the lead vocalist, and primary lyricist of the rock band U2. Bono is known for his impassioned vocal style as well as his grandiose songwriting and performance style. His lyrics frequently include social and political themes, and religious imagery inspired by his Christian faith.^[2]

Born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, he attended Mount Temple Comprehensive School where in 1976 he began dating his future wife, Alison Stewart, as well as forming, with schoolmates, the band that became U2.^[4][5] During U2’s early years, Bono’s lyrics contributed to the group’s rebellious and spiritual tone.^[2] As the band matured, his lyrics became inspired more by personal experiences shared with the other members.^[4][2] As a member of U2, Bono has received 22 Grammy Awards and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Aside from his music, Bono is an activist for social justice causes, both through U2 and as an individual. He is particularly active in campaigning to fight extreme poverty and HIV/AIDS in Africa, for which he co-founded DATA, EDUN, the ONE Campaign, and Product Red.^[4][6] In pursuit of these causes, he has participated in benefit concerts and lobbied politicians and heads of state for relief.^[6][7][8] Bono has received numerous honours for his philanthropic efforts,^[9][10][11] including being named one of the Time Persons of the Year in 2005, being granted an honorary knighthood by Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom in 2007, being made a Commandeur of the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Order of Arts and Letters) in 2013,^[9][12][13] and receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom in the United States in 2025. Bono has also attracted criticism for bypassing African businesses in his activist efforts and for tax avoidance in his personal finances.^[14][15]

Outside the band, he has recorded with numerous artists.^[16][17][18] He has collaborated with U2 bandmate the Edge on several projects, including: songs for Roy Orbison, Tina Turner, and Martin Garrix; and the soundtracks to the musical Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark and a London stage adaptation of A Clockwork Orange. In business, he invested in the refurbishment of the Clarence Hotel in Dublin, and was managing director and a managing partner of the private equity firm Elevation Partners, which invested in several companies.^[19][20][21]

About U2:
1. **The Joshua Tree Tour**: Their 1987 album “The Joshua Tree” is one of the best-selling albums of all time. The tour for the album was groundbreaking in terms of stage design and performance.
2. **Innovative Concerts**: U2 is known for their innovative and elaborate concert setups. The “360° Tour” featured a unique circular stage allowing fans to surround the band from all angles.
3. **Dedication to Peace**: The band has been involved in various peace efforts, including a 1998 concert in Belfast to promote peace during the Northern Ireland conflict.

### About Bono:
1. **Humanitarian Work**: Bono co-founded DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa) and the ONE Campaign, which aim to eradicate poverty and preventable disease, particularly in Africa.
2. **Knighted**: Bono was awarded an honorary knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II in 2007 for his services to music and charity.
3. **Business Ventures**: Apart from music, Bono is also an investor. He co-founded the investment firm Elevation Partners, which invested in several tech companies.
4. **Books and Films**: Bono has contributed to various books and films over the years, showcasing his writing and storytelling skills. He wrote the introduction to “The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis.”

### Band Members’ Other Interests:
1. **The Edge**: Known for his distinctive guitar sound, The Edge is also a philanthropist. He co-founded Music Rising, a charity that supports musicians affected by natural disasters.
2. **Larry Mullen Jr.**: The band’s drummer has acted in several films, including “Man on the Train” (2011).
3. **Adam Clayton**: The bassist has worked on solo projects and collaborated with other artists. He is also involved in mental health advocacy.

### Fun Facts:
1. **Charity Album**: U2 has contributed to numerous charity albums and compilations, raising funds for various causes.
2. **Rock and Roll Hall of Fame**: U2 was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.
3. **Bono’s Sunglasses**: Bono’s signature sunglasses are not just a fashion statement. He wears them due to his light-sensitive eyes, a condition called glaucoma.

U2 and Bono have certainly left an indelible mark