Walk On: The Spiritual Journey of U2

U2TOURFANS November 17, 2010

U2 Fans have you enjoyed a book about the boys that you would feel is worth sharing with your fellow U2 fans? Send a letter to the editor directly. Your review could be the featured review of the week.

Walk On: The Spiritual Journey Of U2
By: Steve Stockman Review: Sara ( From London)

Walk On was an absolutely fascinating read! In fact, it was so good that its worth a read again I have been a distant fan of U2 since my early teens (I’m 30 now). By “distant” I mean that I haven’t followed their life and music as closely as some fans have (at least not too far beyond their earlier albums). I did purchase a copy of “All That You Can’t Leave Behind” and I think it is now probably one of my favorites (along with October, The Unforgettable Fire and The Joshua Tree)!

I have always found some inspiration in the life and music of U2. Such a statement bothers some Christians and that is precisely why they need to read this book. One of the things I have always most admired about this band is that they are real and they often wear their hearts right out on their sleeves… There are some very deep, inspiring, contemplative, introspective and sometimes questioning themes that flow consistently through the lyrics of U2’s songs. In fact, I don’t know of one album that U2 has released that didn’t express some facet of spirituality in one way or another.

Walk On: The Spiritual Journey Of U2 presents an intimate look into the lives of a group of true believers who are not playing games with anyone. They don’t make excuses for their imperfections or try to cover up their frustration with the condition of the world and how few, especially …Most Christians who can’t get past the sight of a cigarette, a beer or the sound of a cuss word, will have trouble seeing the honest heart of a guy like Bono who is as sincere and devout as they come!…Bono once made the statement in an interview that the reason he is attracted to the Scriptures and figures like Christ is because he is not like them and wants to be; he is drawn to that power greater than himself that can change a man’s heart and actions. He admits his weakness but knows the source of this power; God. He is also very inspired by the grace of God.

However unorthodox the bros in U2 seem to the rest of Christendom, these guys are very sincere and very plugged in to God (in fact, I would dare say they are seeking harder and desiring that intimate connection with the Lord than probably a lot of Christians who attend churches today are). This book will be a refreshing eye opener to people who have had questions about U2 and whether or not their faith is real. It will answer some questions for fans as well as give those unfamiliar with the band a proper introduction to who they are. I think that especially those believers who have expressed criticism towards U2 need to read this great book. I found it very inspiring and challenging to my faith.

In consideration of the song Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For, I believe it is a statement about the fact that this band is still searching, but not for God. They have found Him, (all accept the bass player who is agnostic). What they are searching for is an honest expression of truth by those who profess to know Him. An expression of truth that is more than merely words professed, but actions demonstrated. One might also consider this song in respect to 1 Corinthians 13 (the line, “I have spoken with the tongues of angels…”), where love is the only thing that really matters. Bono seems to be expressing that he has experienced the “things” of God, but desires more; to be captivated and completely motivated by love. These guys have not walked away, they are determined to “Walk On!”

I highly recommend this book! It will be most meaningful to those who are at least remotely familiar with U2’s music, but I think even someone who doesn’t know much about them at all will find a number of insightful gems in this great title.

Thank you Sara, this sounds like a great read, fast read and for most of us today. We sometimes need a little church in our lives. U2 fans if your interested in sharing your U2 story write us directly and lets see if your review could be our next weekly book review.

Also remember you can purchase all your U2 books, Music and frankly anything you like from friends at amazon

Welcome to iTunes

U2TOURFANS November 16, 2010

U2 has enjoyed a relationship with Apple for sometime. Going all the way back to the iPod early days. Remember the fully loaded iPod that had all the boys on the shine back cover. Well Lets welcome the new boys on the block a bit late the the game however they will do just great on iTunes. So please raise it up for the Boys from England.

The Edge Supports Aung San Sun Kyi

U2TOURFANS November 16, 2010

U2/The Edge Dave Evans, known as Edge, from the band U2 says that they will continue their support for the Myanmar (Burma) democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Edge, in a news letter said “I’m sure, like us, you’re delighted with the news of the release of Aung San Suu Kyi in Burma at the weekend. We should all be relieved, if cautious, that she has been able to take a step towards freedom.

However, we must remember that her release is not part of any political process but is designed to get positive publicity for the dictatorship after the blatant rigging of elections on 7th November. We must not forget the thousands of other political prisoners still suffering in Burma’s jails and must do whatever we can to encourage the international community to engage the junta in dialogue.

We will continue our support of this remarkable woman and her campaign, and as always we count on your continued input and continued vigilance.”

Leave it Behind, Early Morning View

U2TOURFANS November 15, 2010

It’s Monday early morning in North America the day has yet to begin and yet the promise of tomorrow outweighs any concerns that I may have had yesterday. “And Love is not an easy thing” Those words rang out loud over the weekend as the news release of Aung San Suu Kyi spread around the world.

Twitter was a buzz and facebook fans cheered at the idea that Aung San Suu Kyi is stronger than most of us.

Now the question what’s next for U2? One of many things I admirer about U2 is the idea of standing strong for the beliefs that sometimes are not popular or bringing the issues to your living room and making them real. Remember Nelson? Remember South Africa? Now we can say remember Aung San Suu Kyi!

Amnesty International continues to fight for the other 2K plus that have right to have their day of freedom. It’s not sexy or flashy to stand up for those that can’t speak. Bono has taken on some of the biggest challenges in the world only to point out that we are of greater purpose and that we have the ability to do more if given half the chance. “Leave it behind” and so we will with the knowledge that we have lots of work left to do. Peace @U2TOURFANS

U2'S Joy At Release

U2TOURFANS November 14, 2010

U2 are celebrating after political prisoner AUNG SAN SUU KYI was released from house arrest in Burma.

Suu Kyi, the leader of the National League for Democracy in Burma, had been detained for 15 of the past 21 years because of her political views.

The Irish rockers showed their support for the longtime social activist during their world tour last year (09), urging their fans to don face masks during their track Walk On, which they dedicated to Suu Kyi.

And they were overjoyed to learn she had finally been freed over the weekend.

A statement from the band reads, “There is a cautious joy amongst the campaigners for Aung San Suu Kyi’s release. Over the years we have feared for her life, and until Burma’s leadership better reflects its people, we should continue to be vigilant in our concern.

“Her struggle has become a symbol for all humanity, of what we are capable of - best and worst. Her very grace so infuriating to the bully government whose brutish gorging of the country’s rich resources have left the people of Burma poor and hungry.”

Released ! Aung San Suu Kyi

U2TOURFANS November 13, 2010

Aung San Suu Kyi - On Saturday after her latest term of detention expired was freed by the Myanmar military government. A smilling Suu Kyi wearing a traditional jacket and a flower in her hair, appeared at the gate of her compound as the crowd chanted.

“If we work in unity, we will achieve our goal. We have alot of things to do”

U2 has always supported Aung San Suu and even had masks made during the last leg of the tour in support of her.

U2's Bono Married to Cher

U2TOURFANS November 12, 2010

Former US President George W Bush has paid a warm tribute to Bono, describing him as a very impressive man who really understood the issues facing the Third World.

In his book ‘Decision Points’, Mr Bush tells how he was wary of do-gooder rock stars before their first meeting in the White House on March 14, 2002 — shortly before St Patrick’s Day

“I was sceptical of celebrities who seemed to adopt the cause of the moment as a way to advance their careers,” he writes.

But he says in the book that Bono came bounding into the Oval Office with his “high voltage personality and signature shades” and “quickly dispelled the notion that he was a self-promoter”.

“He knew our budgets, understood the facts, and had well informed views about the challenges in Africa.” Mr Bush says that Bono brought him “a thoughtful gift — an old Irish Bible”.

Mr Bush says that his respect for Bono grew over time.

“Do you know that 2,003 verses of Scripture pertain directly to the world’s poor?” Bono asked Bush.

“People are quick to point out the obvious sins like marital infidelity.

“But sometimes we ignore the most serious ones.”

The President was impressed with Bono’s knowledge of scripture, saying he was “a man of genuine faith”.

However, when one of his staff asked if he knew who Bono was, Mr Bush said that of course he did — he was the rock star who “used to be married to Cher”.