I realize that "in his prime" is a matter of opinion, and many here would say he's still in his prime. I think he still sounds great, and this is not to take away any of his current ability.
however for me, Bono was in his prime between 1985 and 1993 vocally. I'll tell you a story:
I had the opportunity once to be at a party with several very accomplished opera singers. I decided to comandere the stereo and put on WOWY. I asked the singers to put on their musician hats for a minute and listen to the vocals only. they did. all were very, very impressed, not only with the vocal range, but also the delivery. they had nothing but praise, and one was even taken aback.
now, to me there have been many great great singers in rock and roll. starting with elvis, through to morrison and plant, jagger, mercury...the list goes on.
I'll say though imo that Bono in his prime was untouchable by any rock singer before or since.
however for me, Bono was in his prime between 1985 and 1993 vocally. I'll tell you a story:
I had the opportunity once to be at a party with several very accomplished opera singers. I decided to comandere the stereo and put on WOWY. I asked the singers to put on their musician hats for a minute and listen to the vocals only. they did. all were very, very impressed, not only with the vocal range, but also the delivery. they had nothing but praise, and one was even taken aback.
now, to me there have been many great great singers in rock and roll. starting with elvis, through to morrison and plant, jagger, mercury...the list goes on.
I'll say though imo that Bono in his prime was untouchable by any rock singer before or since.