In a reunion at the Las Vegas Sphere last Friday, U2 members came together in the same venue for an electrifying performance. However, the spotlight was on the absence of their drummer, Larry Mullen Jr., who, for another night, was unable to join his bandmates on stage.
Speculation had been rife leading up to the final shows of U2’s Las Vegas residency. Press reports fueled hopes that Mullen, who has been sidelined due to neck surgery and other health issues, might make a surprise return. Fans were abuzz with anticipation, but it turned out that Mullen was there not to perform but to watch from a box seat.
Bono Honored His Bandmate
At the show, Bono addressed the swirling rumors directly:
“The rumors that Larry will be playing with us tonight are not true, sadly. But he is here with us!”
This announcement was met with a wave of support from the crowd, chanting Larry’s name. Upon that, the singer went on:
“That is the man who pinned the note on the notice board at Mount Temple Comprehensive School all those years ago. And we are very grateful that he did and that he’s here with us tonight. We wish him a speedy, speedy, speedy recovery. We love you, Larry Mullen Jr.”
Stepping in for Mullen was Bram van den Berg, who has been covering for the drummer throughout the Sphere performances. Mullen has not performed live with U2 since 2019, though he has remained active in recording sessions, contributing to the band’s latest song ‘Atomic City.’
The Drummer’s Response To The Other Members
The band paid tribute to their drummer during their final song, ‘Beautiful Day,’ by changing the lyrics to include, ‘Larry Mullen, you’re beautiful!’ Following the homage, the drummer shared his gratitude on social media.
His message, shared by U2’s official account, read:
“What an incredible night at the Sphere. So grateful to Bono, Edge, and Adam [Clayton] and of course Bram for an amazing job. Very emotional night for me personally.”
U2’s stint at the Sphere concluded on Saturday, marking the end of an extended run that saw the band perform 40 shows, 15 more than initially planned. The torch is now passed to Phish, who are slated for a four-night performance at the venue in April.
“What an incredible night at Sphere-So Grateful to Bono Edge and Adam and of course Bram for an amazing job-very emotional night for me personally”
• Larry Mullen Jr.📸: @richfury pic.twitter.com/49nOz4Mpbt
— U2 (@U2) March 2, 2024
