U2 mark 50 years with Dublin school and Grafton Street surprise shows
U2 marked their 50th anniversary with surprise Dublin performances, including a return to Mount Temple Comprehensive and a set from a Grafton Street balcony. Larry Mullen Jr. performed live for the first time since neck and back surgery in 2023. The seven-song school set featured the live debut of new single 'Silencio', and the band also paid tribute to Glen Hansard.
U2's 50th-anniversary events included a return to Mount Temple Comprehensive, where they performed for about 1,000 pupils and staff. The seven-song school set featured the live premiere of new single "Silencio," issued the previous day, and Larry Mullen Jr.'s first concert since 2023 neck and back surgery.
Later, the group played from Bewley's Cafe balcony on Grafton Street. The milestone traces to Mullen's school notice seeking musicians; their first gig was a school talent contest. A Music Generation student string section joined "One," and the band also honored Glen Hansard.
The anniversary shows may strengthen Dublin's cultural identity and boost local music tourism, as fans and residents encounter iconic sites like Grafton Street and Mount Temple. Younger pupils and Music Generation participants could be inspired by seeing global stars return to a school stage. Larry Mullen Jr.'s return may also resonate with people recovering from surgery. The coverage may renew interest in U2's catalog and new album, though long-term effects remain uncertain.