After crunching some numbers, David realizes there’s no way Live Nation could be making money on his undersized European shows. And further realizes that their cost is likely being subsidized by the gate of U2′s monstrous 360º tour, a $40MM production he (admitted enviously) calls “overkill” in light of the starving kids in Africa … but he ends with “thanks, guys!” anyway.
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I like you, David Byrne. Tell me another story!
David Byrne: The Godfather of indie music and snobby hipster blogdom alike.
Very wise wisecracking there. I sort of hope that U2 hears this criticism through the grapevine. There is no need for their ridiculous spider-stage…
I think there isn’t a NEED for it, but that’s not really the point. U2 always, for better or worse, want to be the biggest band in the world. And while they aren’t the best band in the world, I think they’re the best band that is also in contention for the biggest. If they want to perform every night on a rotating stage with a giant spaceship (their term for it) overhead, good for them. Good for the audience. This is a band who used to arrive on stage in a giant lemon. They sometimes take themselves too seriously on their albums, but live they know how to take the piss out of themselves. It’s pop music. It’s supposed to be fun. And the stage looks both ridiculous and fun for all involved.
Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah!
i enjoyed that.
He may be right on the subsidizing part but I’m not sure if LiveNation is so kind. What he’s trying to say is that Bono is a hypocrit always talking about starving people and honest trade and then burning that much money on their tour. Not a very strong argument. My parents used the same argument to let me finish my plate when I was a kid. Didn’t buy it then either.
i think talking head is pretty cool guy. eh likes bicycles and doesnt afraid of jews
I think it’s pretty rich David talking about starving kids in Africa, what did he ever do for them that had as much impact? We all know Bono has a fine balance to keep in the group regarding his political views, somehow it seems very shallow of David. Can we take him seriously? Not a chance.