Recently, U2’s Bono released ‘Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story’, an “honest, irreverent, intimate and profound” autobiography where, in addition to talking about his work as leader of the iconic Irish group; he takes us on a journey of discovery through his life; faith in God; his relationship with his wife Ali Hewson and U2’s global dominance and subsequent charitable giving to the world.
However, the book is mainly about his relationship with his bandmates, whom Bono has probably spent more time with than anyone else in the world.
It’s clear that he holds The Edge, Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen in great regard as, after all, they’ve been working together for 40 years and have never changed their lineup, making them one of the longest running bands in the industry.
His favorite singer
But, when it comes to praising other talents, Bono is very clear about his predilections: Michael Stipe and R.E.M; who emerged more or less at the same time as U2, but on the other side of the Atlantic.
The two bands met on a European tour in 1985. Thus, Bono pays tribute to R.E.M. singer Michael Stipe in chapter nine of the book, writing:
“The lyrics of Michael Stipe of R.E.M. they changed the way we see America. He also has one of the best voices in the geography.”
