He may be one of the most mocked men in music, and perhaps rightfully so, but beneath the shades, leather jackets, and other caricature-like characteristics Bono possesses, when it comes to music, he knows what he is talking about. His journey, like that of every notable musician, began as a fan. No amount of chart-topping success or cheesy hits could ever change his love for the craft.
People forget that U2 was once not only one of the hottest prospects around, but also the coolest. Their refreshing take on the post-punk formula set them apart from the pack. Thanks to the mulled Bono’s powerful vocals and lyrics. The spearhead behind The Edge’s constant riffing – some of the best of the era. Adam Clayton’s widely underrated bass playing, and the dynamism of drummer Larry Mullen Jr.
Setting aside what some may consider to be artistic missteps such as Zooropa, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, and Songs of Innocence. These albums were released following their monumental success with The Joshua Tree in 1987. U2’s legacy from their 1980 debut Boy to their rise to prominence as the world’s biggest band in the late 1980s is immeasurable. U2 cemented their place in music history with notable tracks like ‘I Will Follow‘, ‘New Year’s Day‘, and ‘The Unforgettable Fire‘. The renowned Brian Eno co-produced these.
Beneath the growing surface of contemptible releases lies a band that knows what they’re talking about. No matter how hard they try to convince us otherwise. Bono’s position as a fan and a global icon has given him a unique perspective on the craft of great frontmen. He has commented on his peers throughout his career.
Mick Jagger, the lead singer of The Rolling Stones, is a personal favourite of his. Bono adores the Englishman so much. When asked by Rolling Stone in 2020 to name the 60 songs that changed his life, the U2 vocalist chose ‘Ruby Tuesday’ and then discussed how Jagger revolutionised his field. He referred to him as “the best frontman there ever was” as a result.
Bono stated, “The Rolling Stones elevated stage performance in these mega shows to new heights. Mick Jagger has more front than Harrods. The best frontman ever. Mark Fisher certainly contributed, but it was your vision that helped everyone else on the field/stadium have a better one. We used to go to concerts to listen and get a glimpse of a light show if we were lucky.”
He added, “Spending the night together got a lot better when The Rolling Stones blew up their blowup dolls, expanded their lip logo, and stuck their tongue out at the world.” You invented that type of show, and you have never been surpassed.”
