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.