U2 Voted Best Superbowl Half time show ever

Its Super Bowl time here in the states and once again the question comes up as to what was the best Super Bowl Half time show. Some would say the “Janet” show now we would not even put that up as a choice but we had been out voted by the people. However U2’s powerful and emotional perfromance on Feb 3rd 2002. The band performed Beautiful Day / MLK / Where The Streets Have No Name , incorporating an amazing tribute to the victims of the September 11th attacks within the show.

 After some conversation and of course looking around on the web for other polls heres what we would deem as the top 3 all time great Super Bowl Half time shows . Good Luck “Who” this weekend your going to need it against this list.

3. Diana Ross (Super Bowl XXX, 1996): We wouldn’t have believed it, either. But for about 10 minutes, Ross reverted to her disco-era awesomeness. Somehow she managed to fit in four costume changes while singing close to a d

ozen hits. She ended the performance by being lifted away in a helicopter, and her hair remained perfect - still the greatest special effect in Super Bowl history.

2. Prince (Super Bowl XLI, 2007): While several big-name artists have had trouble adapting to the medley-heavy Super Bowl halftime format (Bruce Springsteen comes to mind), Prince seemed completely at home in the over-the-top glitz of the performance. Drenched by a rainstorm, he played Jimi Hendrix and Foo Fighters covers along with three “Purple Rain” songs.

1. U2 (Super Bowl XXXVI, 2002): Even in the best years, you’re not going to hear “Super Bowl halftime show” and “classy” in the same sentence. But U2 managed to present an entertaining show, and also a respectful tribute to the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks. The highlight: “Where the Streets Have No Name,” while a video screen showed the names of the fallen.

AC/DC singer attacks Bono

The singers Bono and Bob Geldof have incurred the wrath of Brian Johnson, a fellow rock star and frontman of AC/DC, over their celebrity activism.

Brian Johnson AC/DCJohnson, the gravel-voiced British singer of Australia’s biggest rock band, has joined a growing group of critics of Geldof and the U2 singer over their very public charity work, saying they should stop lecturing audiences about charity work and instead do their good deeds in private.

“I do it myself, I don’t tell everybody I’m doing it,” Johnson, 62, told Melbourne’s Herald Sun newspaper.

“I don’t tell everybody they should give money – they can’t afford it. When I was a working man I didn’t want to go to a concert for some bastard to talk down to me that I should be thinking of some kid in Africa.”

He then offered some words of advice to his fellow rockers: “I’m sorry mate, do it yourself, spend some of your own money and get it done. It just makes me angry. I become all tyrannical.”

AC/DC were asked to play at the Live Aid concert in 1985, but turned down the chance to play at the charity event, which raised an estimated £100 million for famine relief and made an international celebrity activist out of Geldof.

Johnson described Geldof, who also organised the Live 8 benefit concerts in support of the Make Poverty History campaign in 2005, as a “canny lad”.

“He did what he though was right at the time but it didn’t work,” Johnson said of Geldof’s Live Aid concert. “The money didn’t go to poor people. It makes me mad when people try to use politics or charity for publicity. Do a charity gig, fair enough, but not on worldwide television.”

Johnson’s tirade against the two Irish multi-millionaires is not the first time their charitable work has earned them criticism for letting their egos get in the way of campaigns.

Bono/ Dave Long U2TOURFANS 2009 Bono, who regularly lobbies governments on behalf of the world’s poor, is a fixture of the annual G8 summits, has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize three times and has an honorary knighthood, was also attacked by the author Paul Theroux in 2005.

Theroux claimed the U2 singer was part of a group of celebrity “mythomaniacs, people who wish to convince the world of their worth”, and accused him of perpetuating the lie that Africa was fatally troubled and could only be saved by outside help.

Bono responded by calling his critics “cranks carping from the sidelines”, during an interview with the Times in 2006.

“A lot of them wouldn’t know what to do if they were on the field. They’re the party who will always be in opposition so they’ll never have to take responsibility for decisions because they know they’ll never be able to implement them,” Bono said.

Oscar Snubs, Denver Rolls, Jesus Rocks U2

While there were 63 songs contending for a place at this year’s Oscars, only five made the final cut. Last year it was Oscar champ Bruce Springsteen who was snubbed for his Golden Globe-winning title track to “The Wrestler.” This year U2 and Paul McCartney got slapped down by the music branch of the academy for tunes written specifically for films. U2 wrote and performed “Winter” for “Brothers,” while McCartney did the same for “(I Want to) Come Home” from “Everybody’s Fine.”

Both of these musical powerhouses have a connection to the Academy Awards. U2 lost a best song bid at the 2002 Oscars for “The Hands That Built America” from “Gangs of New York” to Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” from “8 Mile.”

This year, the Irish rockers and Sir Paul both lost the best song race at the Golden Globes to “The Weary Kind” from “Crazy Heart.” That track — written by Ryan Bingham and T Bone Burnett — is in contention at the Oscars, as are two tunes from “The Princess and the Frog” by Oscar champ Randy Newman, “Take It All” from “Nine” by two-time Tony winner Maury Yeston and “Loin de Paname” from “Paris 36” by Reinhardt Wagner and Frank Thomas.

With such musical pedigrees, how did U2 and McCartney not make it into the final five this year? Oscars’ Rule 16 sets out the criteria for winnowing the list of eligible songs down to the final nominees. There was no need for the executive committee of the music branch to recommend that there be only three nominees, as the number of songs far exceeded the threshold of 25 that might have triggered such action.

Unlike other branches — such as acting, which uses a preferential ballot — the music makers screen clips of all the eligible entries and then score them on a sliding scale from 6 to 10, with half-point increments in between. If a member has a song in contention, they are ineligible to vote.

As per the rulebook, “If no song receives an average score of 8.25 or more, there will be no nominees in the category. If only one song achieves that score, it and the song receiving the next highest score shall be the two nominees. If two or more songs (up to five) achieve that score, they shall be the nominees.”

With five nominees this year, we know they all scored at least 8.25. Perhaps the tunes by U2 and McCartney broke that barrier as well but fell short of the even higher scores registered by the nominees.

U2 Appears Mile High

U2’s appearance at Invesco Field at Mile High on June 12 will be the biggest single-band concert in Colorado this year, but the third annual Mile High Music Festival will likely draw more people. The event will take over the fields surrounding Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City on Aug. 14-15, organizers told The Denver Post. Moving the festival from July to August has multiple benefits, according to promoter Chuck Morris.

“It won’t be as hot in August,” Morris, president of AEG Live Rocky Mountains, predicted. “And we’re also a week after Lollapalooza, which will help with the routing of some of these bands.”

Morris’ team is busy booking, but he’s not announcing any acts until his initial artist announcement, due in early March.

U2’s Bono Says Yes to Jesus,

By Stephen K. Ryan

“but the thing that keeps me on my knees is the difference between Grace and Karma”  …Bono of U2

Before President Obama commits  to  a meeting with cause celeb, The Dalai Lama, in Washington D.C., a meeting that will certainly enrage the already testy Chinese, he may want to brush up on the more sublime spiritual aspects of Buddhism and the Dalia Lama’s notion of Karma. Mr. Obama seems to be surrounded by bad Karma at a time when the healing benefits of “Grace”, at least according to Bono may be what is called for.

According to U2’s Bono, many people  in the United States misunderstand, or at least he did initially, the ideals of  “beauty and goodness” found in Buddhism and Karma, and he suggests  that the “Grace” of Christianity is often overlooked and may do wonders for one’s soul.

In the  book, Bono: In Conversation with Michka Assayas (Riverhead Books), the iconic rocker shared his thoughts on numerous topics with the  French music journalist and friend who has been with the band since the beginning.  In the book, Bono, offered the reader a glimpse into his “Christian” heart rarely seen.

Bono makes an explicit confession of faith. Bono says “but the thing that keeps me on my knees is the difference between Grace and Karma. At the center of all religions is the idea of Karma. You know, what you put out comes back to you: an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, or in physics—in physical laws—every action is met by an equal or an opposite one,” explains Bono. “And yet, along comes this idea called Grace to upend all that… . Love interrupts, if you like, the consequences of your actions, which in my case is very good news indeed, because I’ve done a lot of stupid stuff.”

Bono says to Michka Assayas, a secular journalist “Look, the secular response to the Christ story always goes like this: He was a great prophet, obviously a very interesting guy, had a lot to say along the lines of other great prophets, be they Elijah, Muhammad, Buddha, or Confucius. But actually Christ doesn’t allow you that. He doesn’t let you off that hook. Christ says, No. I’m not saying I’m a teacher, don’t call me teacher. I’m not saying I’m a prophet. I’m saying: ‘I’m the Messiah.’ I’m saying: ‘I am God incarnate.’ … So what you’re left with is either Christ was who He said He was—the Messiah—or a complete nut case… . The idea that the entire course of civilization for over half of the globe could have its fate changed and turned upside-down by a nut case, for me that’s far fetched.”

Perhaps with a little more grace in the President’s life, Mr. Obama’s karma may begin to improve.

Letter to the Editor

We started a new series yesterday “Letters o the Editor” We are amazed at the amount of people that lots to say about the letter from “N” as we have always said we are fans and we do post both sides of the story. Sometimes fans have views that we may not agree with however that’s the nature of the business, music speaks to everyone differently and fans view bands differently.

If you have a comment, share it, express yourself that’s what music is all about. We stand by our decision to post the letter and welcome you the fan to consider writing your own view. We will review it and consider posting it.

You can find us via Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, and now download our site via iTunes. Enjoy, Share and Live.



Dear U2, a letter to the Editor

U2  fans seem to be vocal about almost anything. They should be most of us have grown up with U2 and while we may or may not agree with Bono’s politics or view we at least share one common view. That all of us have the power to express our views as well as take action. I have been getting some interesting emails over the last year. Most of which I have chosen to not post out of respect of the writer. However after few days of consideration we talked this letter over and over and we all agreed that this would be the first letter for 2010 to share. Remember your welcome to write a letter to the editor anytime and we will not guarantee  that it will be published.  I welcome your comments and your letters.  Send them to Editor

Dearest U2: 

I never imagined that I would be writing this letter, but after all these years I feel like I don’t know you anymore.  I love you for so many reasons, primarily the humanitarian work you do.  It is honorable to be of such service to others…Bono is a lucky man in that respect.  I have tremendous respect.

Gosh, it was so long ago when we met.  It was 1980 or ‘81.  I think ‘81.  I remember seeing you across the room for the first time in Boston, MA at The Paradise.  What a night!  It literally changed my life!  I felt like a new person on this new adventure and nobody could bring me down from the ceiling!  I couldn’t get enough of you.  From that moment on I knew you were the one for me and we’d be together forever.

Why did you do it?  Its hard being with you when I know you’d rather be with Live Nation.  You’re not the same.  Once whispering in my ear, “Thank you for this life!” and now what I hear is “Thanks to Live Nation, Blackberry…” *sobbing* …maybe you did mention that thank-you in there somewhere but it was drowned out by corporate nods.  

I never thought I would ever hear those words come out of your mouth.  Maybe it’s true.  Maybe you DO find them more attractive and maybe it IS the money.  We’re all human.  I can’t compete with a corporation because obviously they can support you more suitably than I can.

I really don’t know where it all started going wrong.  Maybe it was how you flirted with Apple, I don’t know.  Look, I know things change.  After all, we can’t climb staging like we used to!  I just always imagined us living happily ever after, no matter what you were doing on stage or in the studio.  As we both grew up and changed things evolved but it was really great, wasn’t it?  We discovered so much about each other through the years and you have to admit we became addicted to each other.  You can’t deny the electricity and fireworks between us.  

When people said spiteful things about you, I was always in your corner.  I know it’s just because they’re jealous.  They don’t understand you at all.  They don’t live with you as I do.  I knew what you were made of and what you stood for; I stood for the same things, which is why it worked so well.  You love me and still want me in your life, I KNOW that.

The rumors prove to be too much to bear.  Why are people saying these things?  The tax evasion accusations were hard enough, and then I hear Paul McGuinness at MIDEM in 2008.  You really shook things up there!  But you know something, I don’t even know why I mention that because I TOTALLY get it when you can’t make any money on something you work really hard at, I get that.  

The thing is, it’s getting a bit inflated and I’m running out of money to support you…is that why you want to leave?  Because of the money?  I was always there trying to support you so you could continue doing what you love to do!  I bought ALL the records AND tapes, THEN I bought ALL the CDs, EVERY tour program, re-release and t-shirt I could get my hands on, and later on, ALL the DVDs, and finally, INCREDIBLY inflated prices to see your shows multiple times (I know, that was my choice, you’re right).  And now you want to tell me that it just wasn’t good enough?  

Now you’re epically successful and you are going to burn the very people who have been giving you that great life.  When I first met you, I admired the business sense you had and decisions that you made.  Really smart.  I was in awe of your perseverance. Drive and passion, it’s what made you, YOU!  That business sense coupled with your drive as a band I thought FOR SURE would put you in position to really change the paradigm of the music industry.  

You ALWAYS had your finger on the pulse.  I am disappointed that you haven’t been forward-thinking enough to get ahead of the 8-ball when you saw the writing on the wall that the music industry was changing.  You are in a great position to lead the way but instead, continue on with an outdated model.  You have been a MASTER of change, constantly reinventing yourselves time and time again; it’s what makes it all exciting.  Hey, we all get older and we all grow up and wind up in a different place as a result and that’s cool, that’s expected.  I just want to grow old with you.  I just can’t bear the thought of divorce after what…29 years?

And now…the latest is that there has been a show declared as “sold out” moments after they had gone on sale and lo and behold, Live Nation comes sweeping in with MORE tickets available and they’re “good seats”!  Do you know what this does to me?  

I panic every time there’s a sale and struggle with computer issues only to find that I can’t get ANY number of seats together for my friends and me!  I’ve spent HUNDREDS of dollars because suddenly all the affordable seats are gone AND to make matters worse, more tickets get released and they’re BETTER and they’re reasonably priced!  Didn’t you know Springsteen just got bagged with this tactic?  And don’t sit there and tell me you didn’t know.  You are making it possible for “casual fans” who don’t know anything about you outside The Joshua Tree, to attend a show and forget you the next week.  You have shaken the fans that have supported you and loved you unconditionally.  It’s hard for me.

I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean to get so vehement.  It’s just *sobbing* you’re breaking my heart!  I know that I can make a choice here and turn and walk away, never to look back but the songs will haunt me; I can never give up the music.  I need more time.  Give it more time.  I can’t bear the thought of losing you.  Let’s work it out.

I love you,

Nikki xoxoxoxo (share them, please)

U2 Ticket Alert: Zurich

The second Zurich 360° show will take place on September 12th at Letzigrund Stadium and tickets go on public sale this Friday, February 5th. A presale for U2.com subscribers takes place tomorrow and Wednesday.

Subscribers have receive presale details on email. Here’s the dates and onsales of 2010 shows and here’s the presale times for our different subscriber groups. (Check what subscriber group you’re in by logging in.)

Horizon/Breathe - Presale Opens 10pm Feb 2nd
Boots/Magnificent - Presale Opens 10am Feb 3rd
(all times local)

FYI if your an iTunes App Subscriber you always have the most current tour dates on your iphone/iTouch

Or you can always check out Ticket Masters Reseller Group - Most likely a good option for tickets -

Bono Joining "We Are World" Remake

Just as George Clooney used the Golden Globes as recruiting grounds for his Haiti telethon, Lionel Richie and Quincy Jones did the same with Grammys for their “We Are the World” remake.

The veterans of the original 1985 charity single spent the festivities stocking up on music stars to perform on the new rendition, to be recorded Monday in Los Angeles.

Bono and Lady Gaga are among the latest on board for the Haiti-helping tune, joining the likes of Usher, Jason Mraz, Akon, Jennifer Hudson, Carlos Santana, Enrique Iglesias and Toni Braxton. There could be as many as 100 singers on the new rendition. “It’s like the biggest honor in life to get a call from our father in music, Quincy Jones,” RedOne, who will help produce, told E! News backstage.

Tonight’s Grammys also featured a special Mary J. Blige-Andrea Bocelli duet of “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” The song will be available for download on iTunes with proceeds going to earthquake relief.

Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie are planning a massive 25th anniversary re-recording of “We Are the World.”

The timing couldn’t be better, sadly enough.

The duo is summoning lots and lots of talent from Grammy weekend to stay an extra night — Monday Feb. 1 — and come to the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles. There, they will celebrate a quarter century since Ken Kragen, Richie and Michael Jackson organized the original “We Are the World” with Jones.

This time the artists invited include Usher, Natalie Cole, and John Legend. But you can bet that more names will be added shortly and that all the Grammy nominees and participants will be asked to come as well. Grammy producer Ken Ehrlich will produce the event, which will then be turned into a video and single just like it was in 1985. Don’t be surprised if Wyclef Jean joins in, along with Sting, Fergie, Alicia Keys, Justin Timberlake and other distinctive voices.

Originally, this anniversary celebration was to be held on Jan. 28. But when the Haiti earthquake happened, sources say, the whole deal changed. Now proceeds will go to Haiti relief. In 1985, “We Are the World,” which begat Live Aid, raised money for Africa relief.

Wide Reports on E!, Village Voice,Grammy News, LA Times,

U2 has won 67 Awards !

U2 may not have won 2009 Grammy awards they have won a boat load of awards over the years. Let’s take a look back at some of those awards and pop open a Guinness and lets enjoy this great album. Drink up boys 2010 will be your year !

U2 is considered to be on of the most popular acts in the world since the mid-1980s. The has sold more than 140 million albums worldwide and has won a total of 22 Grammy Awards, record still standing as “more than any other rock band.

American Music Awards

The American Music Awards are awarded annually. U2 has won one AMA, and been nominated for seven. (2002)

BRIT Awards

The BRIT Awards are awarded annually by the British Phonographic Industry. U2 has won 7 BRIT awards.

Grammy Awards

The Grammy Awards are awarded annually by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences in the United States. To date, U2 are tied with Stevie Wonder in having won the most Grammy Awards of any artist of contemporary music with a total of 22 awards. They have won Best Rock Duo or Group seven times, Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Rock Album all twice.

 Meteor Music Awards

14 Meteor Awards.

MTV Video Music Awards

6 VMAs.

Q Awards

10 Q Awards.

Other Awards

In 1989 and 1993, U2 won Juno Awards for International Entertainer of the Year, and subsequently, producer Daniel Lanois won the Jack Richardson Best Producer Award for the production of “Beautiful Day” and “Elevation”.

In 1992, U2 won No. 1 Album Tracks Artist at the Billboard Music Awards for “Mysterious Ways”. In 2001, they received both the NME Award for “Godlike Genius” and “Best Rock Act”.

The following year, they received the award for “Best Live Act”. In 2003 they received both the Golden Globe Award and Las Vegas Film Critics Society Award for Best Song for “The Hands That Built America”, which appeared in Gangs of New York.

The following year they won Favorite Group at the People’s Choice Awards.n 2005 the band was inducted into the Cleveland-based Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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GRAMMY SHUT OUT

No Grammy Wins for U2 - 2009 can be considered a shut out for the boys