The article:What kind of man can wear a leather vest with long hair, necklaces and earrings, and still be considered macho? A rock star, of course. And what kind of rock star can change his name from Paul Hewson to a one-word creation and still be taken seriously? Bono, of course!
Millions of women adore him, millions more men want to be like him. Why? Strip away the mullet, the black leather and big sunglasses and underneath is one talented and inspiring musician.
Always outspoken, Bono and the band have taken political stands since early in their creation. One of U2's first successful singles was "Sunday Bloody Sunday" (from 1983's War), a song about the 1972 riots in which British police killed thirteen demonstrators in Londonderry. More recently, Bono spoke out on behalf of third-world countries at the World Economic Summit in New York City. On February 3, the next day, he performed with U2 during the Super Bowl in a tribute honoring Americans lost in the September 11th terror attacks.
And, did we mention, this guy knows how to sing a moving love song? Beautiful ballads include "One" from Achtung Baby and "With or Without You" from The Joshua Tree.
Now having joined the ranks of rock's Elder Statesmen, Bono refuses to get too comfortable. All That You Can't Leave Behind is nominated for eight Grammys, including album of the year. What will he be wearing when it's time to accept the gramophone statuette? We'll find out soon enough ....?Elizabeth Johnson
