The Early Photo Of Larry Mullen Jr. Taping Flyers To Lampposts Around Dublin For Their First Gig

April 1, 2025

In the heart of Dublin, on a brisk autumn day in 1976, a young Larry Mullen Jr. stood with a bundle of flyers clutched tightly in his hands. He had just formed a band called U2 with a group of friends from school, and today was the day they would announce their very first gig. As he looked around at the familiar streets, a mix of excitement and nervousness coursed through him. This was their chance to showcase their music, to share their passion with the world, but first, he had to get the word out.

With determination shining in his eyes, Larry began taping the brightly colored flyers to lampposts around Dublin. Each flyer represented not just a concert but a dream—a dream that felt just within reach if only he could spread the word. He worked tirelessly, feeling the chill of the wind on his fingers as the autumn leaves rustled around him. “Come see U2,” the flyers proclaimed, a name that would soon become iconic. As he plastered each lamppost with the promise of music, he imagined the faces of potential fans, curious and eager to discover a new sound.

As he stepped back to admire his work, Larry thought about what music meant to him. It was more than just notes and rhythms; it was a way to express his feelings, to connect with others, and to escape the everyday struggles of life. Music had been his refuge through difficult times, and now he was ready to share that refuge with others. Even though they were just starting out and the road ahead was uncertain, Larry felt a fire within him, a belief that this was just the beginning of something much greater.

The night of the gig arrived, and with it, a surge of anticipation filled the small venue. Armed with his trusty drumsticks and a heart full of hope, Larry took to the stage alongside his bandmates. The moment they began to play, something magical happened—the room filled with energy, and the crowd responded with enthusiasm. For that brief moment, the worries and fears seemed to dissolve, replaced by the power of music. It was as if every note they played bound them together, an invisible thread connecting them to the audience.

When the final chord rang out, the cheers that erupted from the crowd were a sweet validation of their hard work. That night marked the beginning of a journey that would take them to stages around the world, but it also represented something more profound. Larry had learned that passion and perseverance could turn dreams into reality. As he looked out at the smiling faces, he realized that this moment was not just about him or the band; it was about the power of chasing dreams, inspiring others, and the magic that happens when you dare to take a chance.

Looking back on that day, Larry knew that taping up those flyers was so much more than just advertising a gig. It was a testament to the resilience of youth, the bravery of pursuing one’s passions, and the beauty of community through music. Each flyer had been a beacon of hope, not only for him but for everyone who believed that their dreams could take flight, no matter how daunting the journey seemed. And as U2 grew, that same spirit of determination and connection would carry them forward, reminding them to always reach for the stars.