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For devoted U2 fans and admirers of the legendary Bono, the lead singer‘s top five song choices may prove surprising, given the acclaimed singer-songwriter’s extensive career. Disclosed around the release of U2’s second album, ‘October’ in 1981, Bono’s eclectic musical taste encompasses a diverse collection, featuring a beloved Christmas classic alongside recognition for an often-unsung Irish punk band.
Bono’s Musical Preferences Unveiled
Bono’s varied musical inclinations were documented in a piece playfully named “Portrait of the Artist as a Consumer,” a nod to James Joyce’s renowned novel, ‘Portrait of an Artist as a Young Man.’ This feature, brought to light on Reddit, showcased the music that influenced the creator behind iconic tracks such as ‘Sunday Bloody Sunday’, ‘Red Hill Mining Town’, and ‘With or Without You’, while offering a glimpse into some of his cherished records.
A Look Back to 1981: Bono’s Top Five Tracks
Dating back to 1981, the U2 frontman revealed a selection of five favored songs, including contributions from John Lennon and Alice Cooper, among others in this curated list of tunes.
Bono’s Selection: Lennon, Cooper, Sinatra and Punk Anthems
- ‘Happy Xmas (War is Over)’ by John Lennon and Yoko Ono – described by Bono as “my first single.”
- ‘Hello Hurray’ by Alice Cooper – designated as his “second single.”
Furthermore, Bono included Frank Sinatra’s smooth ‘Ol’ Blue Eyes’, ‘Faithful Departed’ by Radiators From Space, and Stiff Little Fingers’ powerful ‘Alternative Ulster’. The U2 icon has frequently praised ‘Alternative Ulster’ in subsequent interviews, notably when questioned about ‘Teenage Kicks’ by The Undertones, who also hail from Derry.
Punk Rivalry: Stiff Little Fingers vs. The Undertones
When ‘Teenage Kicks’ by The Undertones and ‘Alternative Ulster’ by Stiff Little Fingers were both released in the same week, they sparked intense chart competition. Reflecting in 2007, Bono stated, “My soundtrack was more Alternative Ulster by Stiff Little Fingers.”
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Bono’s wide-ranging taste also extends to Bruce Springsteen’s ‘The Wild, The Innocent, and The E Street Shuffle’, together with tunes like Wah! Heat’s ‘Better Scream’ and Virgin Prunes’ ‘In the Grey Light.’
Beyond Songs: Bono’s Affinity for Film Themes
His appreciation isn’t limited to just songs; the U2 vocalist also expressed his fondness for memorable theme music from movies such as Midnight Express and The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.
Fan Speculation on Bono’s Playlist Choices
Intense speculation has emerged among fans regarding Bono’s motivations for selecting these particular songs for his playlist. Some suggest it might represent a snapshot of his prevailing musical mood rather than a definitive all-time favorites compilation.
Fan Reactions and Surprises
Followers exhibited considerable curiosity. One fan questioned, “Interesting, didn’t U2 meet Bruce just that month?” Another observed, “Gave the Prunes a boost too. Seems he was answering his current favourites or what was top of mind. Surprised to not see any Ramones on his list.”
Another enthusiast voiced astonishment at David Bowie’s omission: “For me, I thought Bowie would’ve made his list. (Major influence, featured on the ‘songs that saved my life’ playlist).”
Bono’s Cinematic Tastes Revealed
The piece further indicates Bono’s enthusiasm for cinema, listing six filmic masterpieces that have profoundly impacted him, spanning a Michael Caine classic to a comedy widely recognized as one of cinema’s greatest.
Bono’s Acclaimed Film Selections
Bono’s esteemed film choices include: “The Tin Drum, If, Alfie, Lord of the Flies, The Graduate, Monty Python and the Holy Grail.”