Legendary Irish rock band U2 canceled a performance in Berlin on Saturday night, saying that lead singer Bono had « suffered a complete loss of voice. »
« As always, we appreciate our audience’s understanding and all our fans’ support in Berlin and those who traveled from afar. We will update you very soon. »
The Mercedes Benz Arena, where U2 performed August 31 and September 1 as part of its experience+innocence tour, tweeted: « Get well soon, Bono. »
U2 fan site Atu2 wrote on Twitter during the show: « Bono said that he’s not quite sure what’s happened at the end of Red Flag Day. He’s clearing his throat. ‘I think it’s the smoke. I can promise you I have not been talking, but this is like a giant cigar – I’ve lost my voice and I don’t know what to do.' »
The fan site said on Twitter that the singer attempted « Beautiful Day » before leaving the stage.
Twitter user Mark McCarthy posted a video of Bono explaining his struggles to the crowd before launching into the band’s 2000 hit.
« I’ve lost my voice, and I don’t know what to do, because I was singing like a bird about ten minutes ago, » he said. « I’m sure it will pass. »
Actress Ashley Judd posted footage of Bono’s performance on Twitter, commenting: « The power of #bono voice before it surprised him in #Berlin and left him abruptly…he was singing his guts out (per usual). »
The band is on tour until November 10 and is next due to perform September 4 at a sold-out show in Cologne, Germany.
