U2 plays rescheduled Paris show, pays tribute to victims

Paris: Irish rock band U2 returned to Paris for two shows that they had delayed following a series of terrorist attacks in the city.

During the first concert on Sunday at the AccorHotels Arena here, the group paid tribute to victims of the November 13 tragedy, reports aceshowbiz.com.

Standing on the stage in front of a large crowd at the 20,300-seat venue, frontman Bono told the audience: “If you love liberty, Paris is your hometown.”

He then talked about the Paris attacks and the healing power of music.

Bono also honoured Paris with a performance of “In the name of love”. During the song, the names of the victims were shown in red, white and blue letters alongside the now-famous peace sign/Eiffel tower symbol on a large screen in the arena.

While Eagles of Death Metal, who was rumoured to be a surprise guest, was nowhere to be seen, Patti Smith came on to the stage and joined U2 for the last song.

U2 will play their second show at the venue on Monday.

IANS