The Time U2 Ended A Show With “40” And Bono Didn’T Sing — Just Let The Crowd Carry It

April 2, 2025

The concert in San Diego that night was electric, charged with the kind of energy only U2 could summon. The stadium pulsed with thousands of fans, their hearts synchronized with the thumping bass and soaring melodies. Bono, the charismatic frontman of the band, was at his best, weaving stories and connecting with the crowd. They had just performed hit after hit, and excitement hung thick in the air as the band prepared to close the show. But this time, Bono had something different in mind. Instead of leading the final song, he decided to step back and let the audience take over.

As the opening notes of “40” began to play, a hush fell over the crowd. This song, which dealt with the themes of hope and faith, had a special significance for U2 and their fans. The lyrics were inspired by Psalm 40, and Bono had often spoken about the power of music to inspire and uplift. But tonight, he wanted to push that feeling to the next level. He raised his hand, signaling to the band to stop playing. The crowd stared at him, confused but intrigued. Then, without saying a word, he stepped back from the microphone and let the fans start singing the song.

What happened next was nothing short of magical. As the first notes rang out, a wave of voices rose from the audience, uniting everyone in an incredible display of passion and connection. They sang the lyrics with such fervor, lifting their arms in the air, almost as if they were trying to reach the stars above the stadium. Bono stood on stage, his eyes wide with awe, as he listened to the crowd carry the song. It was a moment that felt eternal, where every person in that stadium became part of something greater, a choir of souls sharing their collective spirit.

The scene was powerful and moving. It was as if Bono had set the stage for a communal experience of joy and gratitude. This wasn’t just a performance; it was a celebration of resilience, a reminder that music can bring people together. Bono looked deeply touched, tears welling in his eyes as he watched his fans create a moment that transcended words. For him, it was a reminder of why he had dedicated his life to music – to inspire change, foster connection, and touch hearts.

That night in San Diego marked a significant turning point in U2’s career. Rather than just being the voice of the band, Bono became a conduit for the collective voice of the people. It changed their approach to live performances, igniting a desire to create more moments where the audience could shine. From then on, “40” became more than a song; it was an anthem of unity for U2 and their fans, a reminder that they were all in it together.

Looking back, Bono often spoke about that night as one of his most cherished memories. It reminded him that the power of music lies not just in the lyrics or the melody, but in the hearts of those who listen. In that moment, he learned that sometimes the strongest voice is not the one that sings the loudest, but the one that comes from the crowd, united in their love for music and each other. The experience strengthened his passion for music and fueled his drive to continue inspiring others, showing that together, they could rise above challenges and transform moments into something truly extraordinary.