U2 And The Last Song Played During Their First-Ever U.S. Tour

April 2, 2025

The dim light of the stage cast long shadows across the crowd as U2 prepared to play their last song during their very first U.S. tour. It was 1981, and the band had been on a whirlwind adventure since they stepped off the plane, the excitement of new cities and new fans fueling their passion. They had traveled from one venue to another, playing their hearts out, but this night at the intimate Los Angeles club, the Whisky a Go Go, felt different. The air was electric, and the anticipation from the fans was almost palpable.

As the band took their places, Bono, the charismatic lead singer, could see the faces of the audience, all eager to hear what they had to offer. They had made their mark with songs like “I Will Follow” and “Gloria,” but there was one song that was set to close this chapter of their tour—a song called “40.” As the opening notes reverberated through the room, an emotional tide swept over Bono. “40” was not just a song; it was a reflection of their journey, a prayer born out of their faith and struggles. This was their moment to share everything they had learned and felt.

With each verse, the audience became part of the experience, singing along and creating a powerful wave of sound that seemed to lift the band higher. Bono, with his distinct voice, poured everything into the lyrics, feeling the connection with the crowd deepen. He could hardly believe how far they had come in such a short time. The energy in the room felt like it was rising, turning into a collective hope, as if everyone there was affirming that dreams could indeed come true. U2 was no longer just a band; they were a family, linked by their shared love of music and the belief that it could heal and inspire.

As they reached the end of “40,” Bono invited the audience to join him, and thousands of voices filled the venue, singing the final refrain in harmony. The sound was hauntingly beautiful, echoing off the walls like a promise. He closed his eyes for a moment, letting the moment wash over him, feeling gratitude for every fan who had come to support them, and reflecting on the challenges they had faced along the way—doubt, financial struggles, and the pressure to succeed in an industry that often chewed artists up and spat them out. But here, in this moment, it all felt worth it.

When the last note faded, and the cheers erupted, U2 was met with rapture. The band members hugged one another, overwhelmed by the love and warmth radiating from their fans. This night marked a turning point for them. They left the stage not just as aspiring musicians but as emerging icons in the world of rock music. The experience of that last song was a defining moment that would fuel their journey for years to come, giving them courage to push through obstacles and continue to write music that spoke to the human experience.

As U2 departed the venue that night, they knew that their lives were about to change forever. The bonds formed with their fans, and the powerful resonance of “40,” lingered in their hearts, a reminder of why they began this journey in the first place. Music had the power to unite and heal. With that knowledge, they continued forward, ready to conquer the world, fueled by the passion that had brought them together and the deep connection they felt with each other and their audience. U2’s story was just beginning, and they were ready to embrace whatever came next.