I don't really think you can compare anyone to the Beatles. I love U2, but the Beatles really are really on another level completely. What other band is each individual a house hold name? When George Harrison died, that was the top news story on almost every news station, above the war. The Beatles released about 15 albums worth of material between 1963-1970. Not only is the quantity incredible, but the quality is unmatchable. After the breakup, each of the Beatles had #1 singles-even Ringo-and John, Paul & George have each had several #1 albums. As far as longevity goes, again, no comparison, regardless of what you think of their music. When the Beatles Anthology was released between 1995-1996, they were sold as 3 double cd's spread out over that short time period. Each set wet to #1, and they were mostly outtakes! The Beatles 1 album, released last Xmas, is one of the best selling albums of all time & is still on the Billboard charts. Just listen to the growth in that on record & it is incredible. She Loves You to Hey Jude, only 5 years later. The Beatles got better on each record & broke up on top. There is just no comparison. The wrote the blueprint for every band that followed. I think U2 would agree to that.
Having said that, I believe U2 are easily the best active band around, no question. I can't think of another band who has been around as long as they have, who continues to challenge & grow, and has all their original members. I think they are truely one of the last originals in rock. Another thing that is unique to them, and seems to add to their longevity, is that they were one of the 1st bands (I think) to split the songwriting 4 ways. Everyone is on an equal playing field, making the whole greater than the sum of the parts.
To answer the original question though, I think JL would like & respect Bono. I think he would anyone who was using the spotlight to try to make the world a better place, and was really passionate in their convictions.
