I found this photo on-line the other night and have been enamored with it ever since. I think it’s the look, that one split second, between these two great people, which makes the image. If we didn’t know who these two individuals were we would think it was older brother congratulating his youngest sibling, the rock star. We know that not to be the case. It’s an image of the previous leader of the free world and a rocker, who leads his flock of fans into believing they can change the world, greeting one another. Each has their own wishes, wants and desires to change the world. Not at whatever cost, but by empowering others.
I know for a fact the picture was taken before Bono and Edge hit the stage at the Hollywood Bowl last Saturday night. I’m sure it’s a “Go break a leg” statement from the Prez. However, from Bono’s reaction, it feels as though something else is being requested of the singer. Bono’s reply stare could be read as, “I know what you want me to play, Bill, but we’ve already made up our mind,” or, “Bill, no, you cannot sit in and play the sax.” Either way, it’s this imitate moment that I find so appealing, which is made even more emotional by Bill pulling Bono closer into him. It’s the love and respect for each other that allows us to know these two to be old friends.
I remember back in 1992, when U2 was on tour in America on the ZOO T.V. tour and they did an interview on Rockline. Somehow, Bono had Bill’s phone number and asked the host to dial up Democratic candidate. I was shocked when they got on the “Gollee” candidate from Arkansas. I had listen to the show countless times and never witness such a thing happen. In fact, it was the only time I listened to the show where it ran over its allotted time. There was a spark between the band and Bill much like the spark captured nineteen years later in this image. Who knew at that time, in 1992, that Bill would not only be president but would also build an amazing post-presidential organization and Bono would take on AIDS relief in Africa under the ONE Campaign. It’s amazing how the two of them have grasped onto the world’s issues and made historic change. I think Bono’s good deeds have hampered the creativity within the band, but that is my own opinion. However, Bono’s betterment for the world philosophy is one I can buy into, even if he is a little soapboxish at times. What I admire about him, and Bill, is that they know what they are talking about and people listen. You can see it in their eyes.
