Achtung Baby!
Paul Hewson aka Bono Vox aka Person of the YearNormally, I couldn't give a rat's posterior about what a celebrity does or thinks. For the most part, they're nothing more than impediments I must endure when trying to read my daily fix of online news articles. Sometimes, if I even see a pseudo-celeb's name mentioned in an article, I immediately click out so I don't have to waste any time reading about some quasi drama in their asinine lives.
But I must admit, when it comes to Bono of U2, I have a soft spot. I always have. To a large extent, I credit him for my own interest in politics and current events. I was 16 when I heard his voice on my radio singing "All is quiet on New Year's Day" in 1983 and 22 years later, I'm still a fan of his music. Because of his involvement in reducing 3rd World debt, the Chernobyl Children's Project and Live Aid, I've become of fan of him as a person.
Other than Bob Geldof, I can't really think of another musician who has campaigned so long and so fervently for global awareness on poverty, disease, and our collective responsibility towards eliminating them. Needless to say, I was only too happy to see him get some recognition for his efforts by being name one of Time's Person of the Year along with Bill and Melinda Gates.
For the many people who have criticised him for grandstanding and being a wannabe politician, I can only say that I'd rather his brand of self-promotion over the likes of Britney Spears and Paris Hilton any day of the week.
Peace on Earth
Heaven on Earth
We need it now
I'm sick of all of this
Hanging around
Sick of sorrow
Sick of pain
Sick of hearing again and again
That there's gonna be
Peace on Earthfrom All That You Can't Leave Behind, 2000
OMG, we disagree about something! While I love U2's music, and their lyrics speak beautifully about political issues, I can't stand Bono. That isn't to say I don't appreciate that he does what he does for the causes he promotes, I just can't get on board with him, personally. I find Geldof more down to earth and easier to accept in this role.
Posted by
melusina |
20/12/05 14:52
Scruff...That song defines U2. I love it just as much today as the first time I heard it. It's timeless.
Mike...That's a great song too. One of my most fave lyrics in a U2 song is from "One"..."do you want me to play Jesus to the lepers in your head?" As for him being a wannabe politician..even the most recent interview with him alludes to it..."a visiting star with demotic political power" and "philosopher of persuasion with a strong political habit".
Mel...Say it ain't SO!!! You can't stand Bono? LOL Oh well...at least you still like Bob. Our agreeability can be salvaged. hehe
Posted by
The SeaWitch |
21/12/05 12:21
Well, he is just so...so...BONO. I mean look at his picture on the Time cover, he just looks like a jackass in the shades/glasses/whatevertheyare. I don't know why he rubs me the wrong way, especially since I really like their music.
Posted by
melusina |
22/12/05 17:00
La La La Mel, just got to agree. What an ass, despite the good works, I just don't like him. Loved U2 around "Under a blood red sky" (the live album) After that...Hmmm
Posted by
deviousdiva |
22/12/05 17:15
Et tu Diva? LOL
I totally understand what you ladies are saying but I can't help myself. I like the man. He's always been a bit of a soapboxer but that's just him. Maybe I like him because I'd probably do the same things (calling heads of state during concerts; meeting with the Pope and the President)as he does if I was given half the chance. LOL
Posted by
The SeaWitch |
22/12/05 17:55
I think SeaWitch just has a crush on him.
Posted by
melusina |
23/12/05 19:07