U2 marked 50 years since the band first came together by returning to Mount Temple Comprehensive School on Friday, for a special performance where Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr took to the stage. Fifty years to the day after teenagers gathered at Mullen’s Dublin home following a school noticeboard advertisement on 25 September 1976, the members reflected on their milestone, received a new €2 commemorative coin, and performed a surprise gig from the balcony of Bewley’s on Grafton Street ahead of their upcoming album release.
Returning to Mount Temple: Nerves and Nostalgia
The homecoming performance at Mount Temple Comprehensive School brought out unexpected emotions for the members. Speaking to Brendan O’Connor on RTÉ Radio 1, The Edge admitted he felt “quite nervous” before going on stage, noting that midway through performing “I Will Follow,” he realized how amazing the experience was. Larry Mullen Jr shared a different perspective, stating that he was not nervous and felt genuinely happy to be back. Mullen explained that the group had spent five decades trying to find a venue small enough to recreate their early days, noting that they had measured the stage 50 years prior.
Adam Clayton on School Days and Musical Beginnings
Adam Clayton discussed his transition to Mount Temple, describing his arrival from private school as feeling like a promotion rather than a punishment. He praised the institution’s history of choirs and musical activities, expressing surprise that students could wear their own clothes, receive respectful treatment from teachers, and secure empty classrooms for band rehearsals. Larry Mullen Jr also reflected on placing the original notice on the school noticeboard, admitting he occasionally experienced deep regret over the decision, joking that he could have otherwise remained a nobody.
Surprise Grafton Street Gig and New Coin
Beyond the school grounds, the band’s celebrations extended to Dublin’s city center on Friday. U2 were officially honoured with a new €2 commemorative coin and treated fans to a surprise performance from the balcony of Bewley’s on Grafton Street. Bono expressed deep gratitude for the enduring support of their audience, comparing the loyal fanbase and the sudden Grafton Street gathering to winning the World Cup. He noted that the band’s unique background and sound offered an early glimpse of a changing Ireland.
Did you know? U2’s milestone week coincides with the announcement of Carnaval De Luz, the band’s first album of new material in nine years, scheduled for release on 13 November.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did U2 first form?
U2 first came together on 25 September 1976, after Larry Mullen Jr placed a notice on a school noticeboard at Mount Temple Comprehensive School looking for musicians.
What anniversary did U2 celebrate in Dublin?
The band celebrated 50 years since first coming together, marked by a return performance to Mount Temple Comprehensive School, a new €2 commemorative coin, and a surprise balcony gig on Grafton Street.
When is U2’s next album coming out?
U2 announced Carnaval De Luz, their first album of new material in nine years, set for release on 13 November.
Want to share your thoughts on U2’s 50th anniversary or their upcoming album? Leave a comment below or subscribe to our newsletter for more music news and updates.