Tuesday, 29 September, 2009

FedEx Field, Washington, DC, US
Opening Acts: Muse

Show Report



Moving night in Washington with tributes to the late Eunice Shriver and Teddy Kennedy and respect going out to political movers and shakers in DC ... more than a few of whom seem to be here.

During Beautiful Day Bono remembered 'the beautiful Eunice Shriver', describing her as his mentor and it was another special moment when New Years Day was dedicated to Teddy Kennedy. 'For a peaceful Ireland we salute you Teddy...' That nearly brought the house down.

In the stadium tonight we spotted Nanci Pelosi, Speaker of the US House of Representatives and broadcaster George Stephanopoulos, as well as African leaders like Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Managing Director of the World Bank. And in keeping with the DC vibe, Bono restyled the band introducing Larry as the man who wrote U2's constitution, Adam, the Minister of Culture, Edge, 'the leader of my free world' and musing that he himself might be Majority Leader... 'verbal, elegant but tough when I need to be.'

A kid called Andy arrived on stage at the end of Unforgettable Fire and accepted the invitation to stroll around the stage for City of Blinding Lights. 'Larry Mullen wants to go crazy, Larry Mullen is crazy...' sang Bono as the drummer took the djemba for his own nightly walk around the stage, on a track which is without doubt one of the highlights of the show.

Can't fail to mention The Most Stylish Man in Rock, looking particularly dapper tonight, a sparkly red guitar strap standing out on a very fine new jacket. Set list, as you can see below, got another shake-up. Were you there? Tell us what it was like and post your photos in our comments area below.


( 36 ) Comments
thecgs - 29 September, 2009
wow
MUSE was good. U2 was better. I've been to one other concert in my life waiting, and waiting for U2. I flew from Canada to see this show and it was worth every bit penny, and every effort. When Bono sang Amazing Grace as a lead into Where the Streets Have No Name I was amazed. Every song was worth it. Looking forward to Vegas.
- 29 September, 2009
Great concert
I miss you gays since the last time It was in mexico city with the memorable Pop mart tour. Thanks for all your music. German
missycarroll - 29 September, 2009
Awesome show in Landover, MD
Fantastic show tonight! I loved hearing "New Year's Day" and "Unforgettable Fire," which are two of my favorite songs. (Lucky for all of us, I suppose the latter is being played due to the 25th anniversary of "Unforgettable Fire.") Great surprises! It was very cool to hear "Your Blue Room" from Passengers. That song is mesmerizing. The remix of "I'll Go Crazy if I Can't Go Crazy Tonight" was energetic! What an incredible set!
ramblin rose - 30 September, 2009
More NLOTH
How could they drop NLOTH and Unknown Caller?
boomshakalaka - 30 September, 2009
U2 Lobbying 4 Best Stage Show
With all the noted politicians and leaders in the house Bono lobbied for healthcare in the form of recent success w/ Aids and Poverty relief as well as a call for civil rights in Iran and An Sun Su Chi. While the stage was bigger than the soapbox it was the music(song selection) that really supported U2's ideals and allowed the message to sink in, then PUNCH your lights out with the power of TRUTH. 1st night in Chi-town felt like a smash hit but this show just grabbed me and raised the hair. CHEERS!!
cjbando - 30 September, 2009
Moved to Tears
As little girl in the Philippines who first got introduced to U2 in the 80's though the With or Without You video, being in a U2 concert could be nothing more than a flight of fancy- a sheer dream among many realities I had to contend with. Last night's show was more than a dream come true yet, it was tinged with sobering thoughts-- of missing my family back home, of my countrymen shivering in the damp cold, wrenched away by torrential rain from their loved ones, after the worst typhoon & consequent flooding to hit the country in 40 years. In the brisk September air, I fought away tears and thanked how fortunate I truly was. I looked at those 4 Irish lads singing the anthems of my youth shared with the rest of the world, and how they have made their success count beyond the hits and the swooning accolades and their creature comforts and for two electrifying hours, I allowed myself to happily be just a rock 'n roll fan. I came out of the show part exhilarated, part shook, part inspired and most of all, hopefully a little changed for the better. To Bono, Edge, Adam & Larry. Thank you, more than you'd ever know, THANK YOU.
yannybaby - 30 September, 2009
I love U2 but........???
I hope the 4 lads from Ireland read this. I absolutely love your music. I've been a fan since 1980 and have listened to the music religiously. This is my comment: You need to shake it up. The set is too predictable and becoming boring. I was in Toronto and the set list has only changed by one or two songs. Take a chance and shake it up-your audience would be thrilled!!!!
colleenfan - 30 September, 2009
Crazy Dance Mix
The Crazy Tonight dance mix was a big surprise, and one of the highlights for me. Thanks once again for memories to last a lifetime. God bless you all.
jeffharper - 30 September, 2009
U2 ROCKS D.C.
U2 PROVED ONCE AGAIN WHY THEY ARE THE GREATEST ROCK BAND OF ALL TIMES.SET LIST WAS ONE OF THE BEST I HAVE EVER HEARD.CRAZY WAS ONE THE BEST HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SHOW! SEE YOU GUYS AT UVA ON THURSDAY NIGHT.CAN'T WAIT!
NewbornBabyHead - 30 September, 2009
Love the spaceship
Great show, it was nice to see the lads out of doors again. Love the relative intimacy of the arenas but the spaceship and its fantastical lights and colors was amazing. Especially loved Ultraviolet. Never heard that live before myself.
NewbornBabyHead - 30 September, 2009
Love the spaceship
Great show, it was nice to see the lads out of doors again. Love the relative intimacy of the arenas but the spaceship and its fantastical lights and colors was amazing. Especially loved Ultraviolet. Never heard that live before myself.
av8tr - 30 September, 2009
Over the top
Spectacular show. The 360 stage was amazing. The only bad experience all night was the "Johnny Rockets" burger I bought. I can still taste that today! Nasty!
oceangirl6 - 30 September, 2009
Thank you for the release
Attended the show with my friend, we are both young and newly widowed 39 year olds. I lost my beloved on Feb.13, 2009. His name was Garien Hendrick Wycoff. He looked remarkably like Bono. The show in itself was jaw dropping, but the song selection was absolutely beautiful. Blue Room, Ultraviolet, Unforgettable Fire....Seeing Bono on stage shook me a bit at first, because it was like seeing Gary alive again. But the vision and the sounds allowed us to grieve and be joyful at the same time. I hope you boys realize it is not just your music that means so much to us, it is like you have been with us through everything. Much love, AnnMarie
AJFAV13 - 01 October, 2009
More than I could have imagined!
Totally can't find the words to express my self for what an awesome show this was. Muse kicked serious butt but U2 was off the charts. Goosebumps for when Andy got up there and Bono gave him his glasses. Nice gesture! Go Crazy was just that...Frickin CRAZY!!!! Thank you for a night to remember
bonoluvliz - 01 October, 2009
Happy and Sad
It was a great show it always is. The four of your are the greatest band in the world. I really enjoyed Unforgettable Fire and Your Blue Room. I would have loved to have heard Bad or October. What I was sad about is Bono came over to the red zone on Adam's side once. I brought my 11 year old and she was disappointed. In the past I have been by the catwalk and it was great. I feel it wasn't used to full capacity.
sandj1 - 01 October, 2009
Magnificent!
I tried to post earlier, but it didn't seem to go through. This was my first time in the "inner circle", and it was an unbelievable experience. Loved all the songs -- hearing Unforgettable Fire and Ultraviolet were probably my two favorites, although I loved every moment! I will be in Raleigh with my 9 and 7 year old daughters for that concert (in seats high up this time -- so we'll enjoy the light show) and can't wait to experience U2 360 all over again! (Can I beg for "Bad" to be added to the setlist? I have never been to a concert where it has been performed, and it is my favorite... however, if nothing changes from DC, it will still be perfect!) Here's hoping for a second US tour leg...
bryanmonzella - 02 October, 2009
Wash DC Show
I drove 8 hours roundtrip to see this awesome show. Thanks for making it so memorable. I may have to go to Europe next year for another U2 live fix! Bryan Monzella
stacey - 02 October, 2009
Review of Washington, DC
I had been looking forward to this concert so badly. Unfortunatey, I did not have good seats. I had the next to the last row in the stadium. The echo was so bad that when Bono spoke, I could not understand a single word that he said. It sounded garbled. I could tell what songs they were playing but it sounded terrible. I am so disappointed that I can't even explain. My husband and I have been listening to U2 for more than 25 years and they have been a big part of our lives. Our children enjoy hearing them and I still blast their music. I wish I could see the concert again with better seats.
heydi - 02 October, 2009
Wonderful
The whole experience was great! LOVED it and can't wait for more (Raleigh and Oklahoma)! Loved the Crazy Remix and the way it was done. The sound just couldn't be better and is quite amazing in such a large venue. I'll echo what a couple of others have said, and that would be to have 'Bad' added to set list. Looking forward to the other shows I am lucky enough to get to see! Thanks!
clopezv - 02 October, 2009
Greatest concert in the whole world
This was a dream come true for me and my wife. We traveled all the way from Honduras in Central America to FedEx Field for the U2 360 Tour. Is great to go to a concert of your favorite band of all time. I will never forget singing all the songs next to the love of my life, I wish that night could last forever. Stuck in a moment acoustic and see Larry with the dejmba was amazing. Tedd's dedication and the children at the stage are things I'll keep on my mind forever. The wait was long but it was worth it. You Know I'll go crazy if I don't go crazy tonight. Thanks for everything! I enjoyed singing all the songs with you guys!
jawentzel3819 - 02 October, 2009
Great Show in DC
I was there in DC, the first time I have seen U2 live after being a fan for 30 years. It was an awesome show, I want to see them again. I hope they return to the US in 2010. U2's music is inspiring, visionary, and invigorating. Some of their songs almost bring tears to my eyes. I will always remember this show.
EllenP - 02 October, 2009
CAN'T GET ENOUGH!
This was my 20th show stretching over 23 yrs and I was not disappointed (although really could have heard Bad!) I left the show, as always, thrilled, hoarse and praying you guys will come back very, very, very soon - my schedule is always open for U2.
maryatmd - 03 October, 2009
U2 Elevated My Soul
What an incredible show! My first time in the inner circle and being so close to the band was such a gift! Thank you to U2 for sharing your music with us and encouraging us to sing our hearts and souls out with you. When you play, all time seems to stop - yet it goes so quickly! You could've played for hours before the crowds were sated. And loved Bono's green guitar!
adargan - 03 October, 2009
OUCH!
Talk about a great show! I had sooo much fun dancing and singing...teaching the next day was not a good idea! Ha! I couldn't talk or walk! One was absolutely amazing and powerful! It put tears in my eyes. Thanks for a great show guys! Thanks for the set list.....something that I will truly cherish!
AlaskanEire - 04 October, 2009
Alaska to DC - Blast Off
Not only was it hot in the city, but U2 rocked! I brought my 13 year old niece and she we have a new fan for life. She was absolutely blown away by the space ship. She was moved by Sunday Bloody Sunday and the discussion about Iran. She was full of questions about political activism on the ride home to Fredericksburg. She is now a member of One! U2 helped me stay the coolest aunt in the world! Even when I dancing to Elevation. Thanks guys, from the club tours so long ago, my enjoyment know no measure. We have spent the week going through my old Propaganda fan mags. Thanks for the MUSIC!
tears of mars - 04 October, 2009
Tears of Mars
Tears of Mars comes to DC to Honor U2, tHE BAND OF 5 Brothers come to Fedex field ...to witness the annointing!
baltopoet - 05 October, 2009
STILL Rock's Hottest Ticket!
My first U2 concert was at RFK Stadium in DC in 1987 when Bono separated his shoulder and kept singing anyway. This was, as every U2 tour since has been, the best concert I've ever seen. LOVED the spider-monster stage thingy; I think I'll get one for the back yard. (Don't tell the zoning board in Baltimore City.) Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, sat directly on the other side of the aisle from where we sat! Six days later, I'm still recovering my voice. Thank you, U2, for giving me the soundtrack to my life.
jaan - 06 October, 2009
Visually Stunning
I attempted to submit a review several days ago but it wasn't posted so here it is again modified. Politics are so prevalent at U2 concerts that It's difficult to write an in-depth comment without referencing it. The concert was on a cool 50F's blustery day which tended to subdue to crowd a bit. The lead song, Breathe, was excellent and the best song of the concert and kudos to U2 for playing an initially relatively obscure song (track 10 of the new album), though no longer obscure. There are two basic song sets U2 are playing. Only three songs are interchanged, but the songs switched out are significant as they include Until the End of the World and Unknown Caller which has guitar leads to show off "President The Edge" (not President Edge) guitar prowess who was in absolutely superb form. Unfortunately some standards like I Still Haven't Found or Stuck in a Moment were transmuted from touching love songs. On the set list, in NYC where they added a song to their set list, here they unfortunately dropped a song from their new album, No Line on the Horizon. As someone who's owned every single major U2 album U2 put out, and continually played their albums, fresh U2 is a treat. At one point Bono brought an arab(?) on stage from the audience who was waving an American flag and singing along. Although the singing was off a bit, he certainly made up for it with gusto. I would definitely recommend going to see them. They still are a super group putting on a super show, and they're better live than nearly any band still playing. The beginning of Vertigo is a raucous ephoric moment, City of Blinding Lights and Vertigo are played better than on the CD and those song's visual effects are visual highlights of the show, and at the end of Stuck in a Moment, Bono extends the end by repeating 'and this moment, and this moment' several times so that for a few hair raising seconds you're right there focusing on the moment before 'this too shall pass.'
pammurray - 07 October, 2009
DC
U2 consistently puts on incredible concerts. U2 shows always leave me wanting more. Come back soon!
bu2fuldayinva - 08 October, 2009
I boycott the Washington Post
Nothing in my 31 years comes close to U2, especially live. This was my fifth concert, and I decided it was time. Time to devote a day. You say church doesn't do it for you? Try singing "Streets" with 83,00 people. God is right on your shoulder the whole time, and you can't help but walk out feeling like as bad as a day can get, you can look out for your brothers and sisters... take a chance... change a life you'll never see. Boys, I'll be petitioning for you canonization. By the way, I can't figure out why the Washington Post would have more to say about Lady Gaga and debauchery than this. Oh yeah, I can figure it out.
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