U2 And The Lyrics Bono Wrote On A Napkin During Turbulence

April 3, 2025

On a stormy night in 2010, U2 was flying over the Atlantic Ocean, headed to a concert in the United States. The band had just finished a long tour in Europe, and the members were exhausted but excited to share their music with fans. As the plane bucked violently through turbulence, the mood shifted. Everyone on board felt a tight knot in their stomachs, and even the bravest rock star, Bono, felt a twinge of fear. But instead of surrendering to the anxiety, he pulled out a napkin and a pen, determined to find inspiration in the chaos surrounding him.

As the plane shook, Bono began to write furiously. His thoughts spilled onto the napkin, forming lines of lyrics that spoke to the struggle of fear and the hope that follows. He wrote about the storms we face in life, not just the ones in the sky, but the emotional ones that shake our foundations. With each word, he captured the raw energy of the moment, transforming his fear into something beautiful. The turbulence outside matched the intensity of his creativity, and amidst the noise and uncertainty, he felt a rush of purpose.

When the plane finally landed, the band was shaken but relieved. Bono had done more than survive the flight; he had crafted something powerful. That napkin, with its scribbled lyrics, became the seed for a new song. When the band entered the studio weeks later, Bono shared what he had written. The other members were moved, and they quickly began working on the music that would accompany his heartfelt words. The song “Rising Tide” emerged from that turbulent night, solidifying U2’s legacy as a band that not only entertained but also connected deeply with their audience.

“Rising Tide” became a hit, resonating with fans worldwide. People found solace in its message, as it spoke to the struggles they faced in their own lives. Bono’s lyrics reminded them that even in the hardest moments, there is a chance to rise above, to find light amidst the darkness. The song not only brought U2 closer to their fans but also helped the band realize that their music was a source of strength. They had the power to inspire and uplift, no matter the challenges they faced.

That night in the stormy sky taught Bono, and the rest of U2, that creativity often blossoms in the toughest times. Instead of being defeated by turbulence, they embraced it, turning what could have been a moment of fear into a chance for artistic expression. The experience reminded them of the importance of resilience, both as musicians and as people. Bono learned that every storm has the potential to bring forth something beautiful – something that could touch the lives of many.

Years later, Bono often reflects on that flight. The napkin is cherished, a symbol of how art can be born from adversity. He continues to write and inspire, using his platform to advocate for love and change, all while reminding others that even in their darkest moments, they have the power to rise. U2’s music continues to resonate, a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring impact of creativity.