1B: U2
U2 is a band from Dublin, Ireland. (Question — Can you find Dublin on a map?) They were formed in 1976, when they were still in high school. All four original members are still together.
U2 was inspired by Woody Guthrie. Their music doesn’t sound similar – but many of their songs are about helping people who are going through hard times, just like Woody’s songs.
In 1988, U2 recorded Woody Guthrie’s song “Jesus Christ.” Check out U2’s version.
In 1984, U2 released the song “Pride (In the Name of Love),” which references Martin Luther King, Jr. When Bono wrote it, he thought the song seemed incomplete. They recorded it anyway. It became their biggest hit to date. Listen to the song and see if you can hear him say the date that Martin Luther King was killed. (Note: The lyric says “early morning.” In fact, King was killed at 6 p.m. The band changes the lyric when performing live.)
The following year, U2 performed at Live Aid, which raised money for hungry people in Ethiopia. More than 72,000 people were there; another 2 billion watched on TV. Here’s a clip.
They have also supported causes like Amnesty International and Make Poverty History.
One of their most uplifting songs is “Beautiful Day.” (Notice how much older they are now!)