U2 And The Stagehand Who Left A Handwritten Setlist That Became A Keepsake

April 2, 2025

In the summer of 1987, U2 was on the brink of becoming one of the biggest rock bands in the world. Their album “The Joshua Tree” was about to be released, and the excitement was palpable. As the band prepared for a massive tour, a production team was working tirelessly behind the scenes. Among them was a dedicated stagehand named Leo. Leo was a quiet guy, often overlooked in the chaos of touring, but he had a special way with details that made him invaluable. He had seen the band grow from a small club act to a worldwide sensation, and he was determined to make their shows unforgettable.

One night, just hours before a concert in Los Angeles, lead singer Bono was feeling the pressure. The band had just finished rehearsing, and the weight of their new songs weighed heavily on him. He wanted to make sure the setlist captured the emotion of the moment, but he needed a spark of inspiration. As the crew set up the stage, Leo noticed Bono’s worry. In a moment of courage, he walked over and handed him a piece of paper with a handwritten setlist he had jotted down during rehearsals. It included not just the song titles, but also little notes about the feelings they evoked. Bono looked at the list, smiled, and suddenly felt a renewed sense of purpose.

The concert that night was electric. The audience of thousands sang along with every word, united by the music that echoed deep in their hearts. As Bono performed the final song, he glanced down at the setlist Leo had given him, and it hit him: music was more than just notes and lyrics; it was a connection that brought people together. After the show, the crowd erupted in applause, and there was not a single person in the arena who didn’t feel the magic of that performance. Bono knows he had Leo to thank for reminding him of the power of vulnerability and authenticity.

After that night, Leo didn’t just fade into the background. He became a part of U2’s unofficial family. The handwritten setlist became a cherished keepsake, framed and hung in the band’s rehearsal space. It reminded everyone of the night the music truly came alive, and how the smallest act—Leo’s simple piece of paper—could inspire greatness. Bono often shared the story of that show, emphasizing how important it is to listen to those around us and how each of us can make a difference in our own way.

Years later, when Bono reflected on his career, he remembered that moment as a turning point. It taught him that music wasn’t just about fame and success; it was about heart and connection. The spirit of that night lived on through U2’s music, influencing their future albums and performances, reminding them that their art could change lives. And as for Leo, he continued to work behind the scenes, proud of the fact that he had played a part in something greater than himself, always inspired by the idea that sometimes, the smallest gestures can create the biggest impacts.