U2 Honored with Woody Guthrie Prize, Hints at New Music
U2 received the prestigious woody Guthrie Prize last night, October 21st, during a moving ceremony at Tulsa, Oklahoma’s historic Cain’s Ballroom. The band’s performance and acceptance speech underscored their long-standing commitment to socially conscious music and their deep respect for Guthrie’s legacy. This recognition places U2 among a distinguished group of artists dedicated to using their platform for positive change.
A Night of Music and reflection
The evening featured a powerful setlist showcasing U2’s iconic repertoire. They performed classics like “Running To Stand Still,” “Mothers of the Disappeared,” “Sunday Bloody Sunday,” “One,” “Pride (In the Name of Love),” and “Yahweh.” Additionally, the band paid tribute to Woody Guthrie himself with a rendition of his song, “Jesus Christ.”
A spontaneous a cappella performance of The Beatles’ ”A Hard Day’s Night” punctuated their acceptance of the award, demonstrating their broad musical influences and joyful spirit.
The Spirit of Woody Guthrie
The Woody Guthrie Prize is awarded annually to artists who embody Guthrie’s spirit. It recognizes those who champion the marginalized and strive for a more just world through their art. Past recipients include musical icons like Pete Seeger, Mavis Staples, Joan Baez, bruce Springsteen, and Tom Morello.
U2 on Songwriting and Social Obligation
Bono eloquently spoke about the influence of Bob Dylan, crediting him with revealing the power of song as a tool for expanding perspectives. He emphasized that America’s story is still unfolding, and progress isn’t guaranteed. “Don’t imagine it will continue to be extraordinary on its own,” he cautioned, “that if you fell asleep and woke up in 20 years, the world would be fairer or freer. It won’t.”
The Edge added that impactful protest songs aren’t simply about highlighting darkness, but about actively creating light. This sentiment reflects U2’s consistent approach to addressing challenging issues with a message of hope.
A Glimpse into the Future
During a discussion with producer T Bone Burnett, Bono acknowledged the difficulty of writing songs “to order.” However, he surprised the audience by sharing lyrics from an unfinished song.The poignant lyrics focus on the late Palestinian activist Awdah Hathaleen and explore themes of justice and loss:
“one father shot / three children crying / if there is no law / is there no crime / if there is no hope / what’s there to rhyme / history is writen / one life at a time.”
This marked the first concrete preview of material for U2’s next album, a follow-up to 2017’s Songs of Experience. A release date remains unannounced,but the new lyrics offer a compelling indication of the band’s continued engagement with global issues.
A Return to Roots
U2’s performance at Cain’s Ballroom held special meaning. It marked their first return to the venue as April 4,1981. The band also played Tulsa in 1983 and 2018, playfully noting their ability to now legally purchase drinks. This return to their early touring grounds underscored their enduring connection to their roots and their fans.
Ultimately, U2’s acceptance of the Woody Guthrie Prize reaffirms their position as not just a globally accomplished band, but as artists deeply committed to using their voice for a better world.You can expect continued engagement with important social themes in their future work, building on a legacy of impactful music.
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