The Original Setlist Of Popmart Tour That Included A Cover Of Elvis’S “Are You Lonesome Tonight”

April 2, 2025

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the stadium, fans buzzed with excitement for the opening night of U2’s PopMart tour in 1997. The air crackled with anticipation, and people of all ages clutched their tickets, eager for a night of unforgettable music. Among the thousands gathered was a young girl named Lily, who had dreamed of seeing her favorite band perform live. Little did she know, this concert would become a pivotal moment in her life, transforming her passion for music into a lifelong journey.

The band took the stage, and the crowd erupted into cheers as the first notes of “Discothèque” rang out. As the show unfolded, the audience was taken on a thrilling ride filled with dazzling visuals and powerful anthems, including hits like “Where the Streets Have No Name” and “One.” But the real surprise came when Bono, the charismatic lead singer, announced a cover of Elvis Presley’s classic “Are You Lonesome Tonight.” Lily could hardly believe her ears. The juxtaposition of U2’s rock energy with the soft, heartfelt melody of Elvis captivated her. Bono’s voice was rich and emotional, and he poured every ounce of passion into the song, making it resonate deeply with the crowd.

For Bono, performing this Elvis cover was a moment of vulnerability. It was not just a nod to one of his musical heroes but a chance to connect with the audience on a human level. The lyrics spoke of longing and loneliness, and Bono infused them with his own experiences, reminding everyone that even stars face their demons. Lily felt a wave of emotion wash over her, and as tears escaped down her cheeks, she realized that music was more than just sound; it was a powerful medium that could express the deepest feelings of the heart. That night, Bono’s resilience and authenticity inspired her to embrace her own passion for music, a spark that would ignite a lifelong dream of performing.

The PopMart tour was an enormous success, revitalizing U2’s career and proving that they could continually innovate and evolve. The cover of “Are You Lonesome Tonight” became a highlight of the tour, showcasing the band’s ability to blend their rock sound with elements of nostalgia and heartfelt emotion. For Bono, this creative decision reaffirmed his belief in the importance of vulnerability in art. The moment he shared with the audience turned into a crucial lesson: music could heal, connect, and uplift people—even when they felt alone.

Lily left the concert that night with a renewed sense of purpose. Inspired by Bono’s performance and the way he connected with his audience, she began writing her own songs, pouring her feelings into lyrics and melodies. Music became her refuge and her means of expression, and she often revisited that magical night at the concert. Years later, she would stand on stages of her own, chasing her dreams inspired by that powerful moment of connection.

As the years passed, U2 continued to tour and create, proving that passion for music knows no bounds. Bono’s cover of “Are You Lonesome Tonight” remained a testament to the power of music—how it can echo through time, resonate within our souls, and forge connections that transcend loneliness. For Lily and countless others, that concert served as a reminder that when we share our stories through music, we can light the way for both ourselves and those who listen.