From a musical standpoint, the NFL wanted to pre record the performance because the NFL was worried that previous artists could not handle a large stadium performance and wouldnt sound good. U2 told the NFL we do this every night, we are doing it live, U2 also understood the emotion of a live performance over something pre recorded. Bono’s jacket from that night is in the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.
As well it should be. I'm not a big U2 fan by any measure. But, this video just gets me every time. I remember watching it live (on TV)... and still get the chills every time I see this. As David was saying... this his every feel there is.
The scrolling of the names was definitely U2's idea. I saw them in Chicago a month after 9/11 and they were doing the same thing in honoring the victims this way. It was a powerful moment and we really needed U2 at that moment in time.
I sawxthem 10/30/2001 in providence, RI. They were already scrolling the names at that point. But, I believe they were doing it at the end to Walk On. Was done in total reverence to those lost that day. Deeply emotional.
10 totally agree. One of the most iconic and perfectly positioned halftime performances ever. Huge emotional connection by the band, choice of song, way it was delivered, recognition of where the nation was and what was needed, and finally the tribute to all those so tragically lost.
The names scrolling was ALL U2's doing. There is even Super Bowl mini-doc where there NFL organizers talk about deciding if/when the Super Bowl would happen, and who they would get. U2 were one of the only bands touring. Remember, travel was highly restricted for a few months. A few of the NFL organizers went to a U2 show, and saw U2 do this performance as well. (in New York they brought many of the 1st responders who's were at 9/11 on stage as well)
I saw that mini documentary too. In fact I was just looking for it, and I can’t find it anywhere. They have the other halftime shows like prince, Tom Petty, Springsteen and the documentary behind them… But no U2 anymore. It’s weird.
Thomas F Joyce. Christ the King. Father dear friends with John Facenda. Grand father broadcast first Mass and NFL game. Hang in there friend. This was turned into a Sting Operation. About to WIn. Amen.
U2 were teh ONLY band to agree to do the show, every other act including "american" said no out of fear but these 4 Fighting Irish decided to show America that it was ok to have fun again and yet pay tribute to those who passed......the emotional performance was incredible and the band were not even american!
U2 went against the tide after 9/11 . While a lot of artists cancelled tours u2 carried on with the elevation tour just weeks after 9/11 . They were some of U2’s greatest ever shows. I don’t think there’s any artist out there that can push emotion like u2 do. Their album at the time all that you can’t leave behind became a big heeler for Americans. The record took a totally new meaning after 9/11.
Freaking love the album All That You Can’t Leave Behind, one of their best albums and contains one of my favorite songs by them, Walk On(extended live version is even better)
City of Blinding Lights is a song about New York in the weeks after 9/11, the same period U2 did the US leg of their tour. The song is about the strength and resilience of the people from New York during that time.
You hit the nail on the head. In an interview with the NFL people, they did NOT want to do it, but BONO said it was there duty TO DO IT in their honor.
More on the performance. I wish you reacted to the full performance (2 and a quarter songs). Beautiful Day started with Bono entering, walking slowly through the crowd to the stage. The symbolism is understated (one WITH everyone, no separation between band and audience). They had free reign to choose any song they wanted. Elevation was a rising hit single at the time. It was a huge crowd pleaser that gets the crowd going. Instead they chose Where The Streets Have No Name, as the meaning and feeling was the right sentiment. By this time in their career, U2 were known for putting on the most highly technical and extravagant performances ever ZooTV and Popmart were critically praised and enormously successful tours that changed the concert industry. They could have easily put on an enormous spectacle with fireworks, pyrotechnics and huge production. As you stated in the video, this performance was stripped down. This was entirely purposeful on U2's part. The focus is clearly and decidedly hones in on the names of the victims. (Even the actual flags you see were brought by the audience, and not specifically placed by U2). Other details: The names are also projected on to the audience. For the first time, at U2's request, all the advertisement videoscreens were turned off during the performance (they came back up, when the screen fell). The names scroll up to the sky, not down (Another choice). The names don't just stop or disappear towards the end of the song. The entire screen falls (symbolism of the towers falling is clear, but simple and understated), and the lights go outward into the audience. The only flag displayed by the band is at the end when Bono reveals it inside his jacket. Again simple symbolism here. He could have warn a flag jacket or shirt or hat. Instead, he reveals the flag inside his jacket - it is inside close to him. Every single choice and all energy of the perforemance, from song selection to production, what they included and also chose NOT to do, was in service to the humans lost
@@AndTheRoadGoesEverOn Its just such a great performance, deceivingly simple. But its easy to so how any other choices in the details and execution would yield different results
Came across this review by accident, great video and a quality review! U2 are my favourite band by a mile, there music has so much meaning and when you watch this video, it really puts it into perspective that despite what both of our countries governments have done since 9/11 (Im from the UK), the victims on that list were regular people like all of us, going to work to put food on their families tables, or literally putting there own lives at risk to save someone else, this should never be forgotten, they werent at war, the were not fighting, they literally went to work for the day and never came home, so sad. Incredible, emotional performance! Keep up the good work on your channel, quality!
The intro and outro of that song gives me goosebumps every time. Love it. One of those names was my neighbor when I was growing up. Back yard neighbor I guess you'd say as the back of our houses faced each other. Todd Beamer of flight 93 is an American hero along with the other's who stormed the cockpit and his words "let's roll" I see almost every day on the back of semi trailers, or on mud flaps and memorials everywhere. I won't ever forget. My dad (a veteran) ALWAYS put up the flag for memorial day, or veterans day etc. Or he made me do it. Ever since and still at 80 years old he puts it up every single morning when he goes to get his paper off the driveway. I really need to do the same.
I was a mess watching this live.... and it still gives me chills watching 20 years later....U2 stepped up..... perhaps the Best halftime Superbowl show ever!
No pitchforks or torches here David, the score and reason for it was spot on. I've been a U2 fan for over 30 years and whilst I understand they aren't the most technical band their message and the way they get it out there is what makes them stand out. Even though I'm Scottish and have no American links this one still hits hard and it's good to see U2 do their bit to try and help the healing.
You hit the nail on the head for the reasoning behind the score of 10, But I wouldn't have expected anything less from U2, They ARE An ORIGINAL OF THE SPECIES!❤
Thank you for reviewing this and sharing it with your audience. Alot of people don't understand why U2 is so special. They look at the musicianship and say "nothing special or complicated there". After watching this video, they now see the heart of U2. A heart or place with no sorrow or no shame. Where the Streets Have No Name.
Oh... this. This video. No words. Thank you for featuring this. I'm no longer a U2 groupie but I will always respect them. Lots of heart. Also, notice the names are scrolling UP, not down. Perfection.
It's ok to cry buddy I cried to ❤️.. Bono said In a interview that the main reason for the names was that the band wanted to celebrate those people's lives and they didn't want their families to feel that their love one was just a statistics.. love your channel
Thanks Dave! So glad I requested it. Brought back a ton of memories for me. I saw them that year in Florida for the all you can't leave behind tour. It was actually about a month after this performance. I can tell you they used the wall of names for that entire tour. My show they did it during the song walk on. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house. So I think since they did it during the entire tour the original idea likely was theirs. Whoever thought of it was brilliant because it was the highlight of the tour and that is consistently ranked and one of the best halftime shows ever. Loved the score and the reason behind it. Well done as always!!
This was really good! As soon as the opening notes Streets started I began to tear up. You nailed it. Such an emotional time and this performance was a step towards healing here in the US. 10 = perfection and I agree with you. Absolute perfection of a performance, and your reaction was so genuine, so from a New Yorker, thank you!
I've just watched your video and cried my eyes out... I knew this U2 halftime performance for decades, but last week I was in NYC and visited Ground Zero. Tonight, at home in The Netherlands, I bumped on your video and now it struck me like lightning. I can feel you man. And don't hide your emotions; they are there for a reason. Thank you for showing your feelings, telling stories and making vid's like this. You've got a new subscriber!
Great score, David. Yes, U2 was THE perfect band to deliver this tribute. Even the fact they are from Ireland & not Americans themselves somehow just *worked.* 9/11 was a globally shocking event that the whole world reacted to. (I was in Europe just 2.5 weeks after the attacks and whenever people found out our group was American, EVERYONE wanted to talk to us about it.) So to have a band from another country scream out “America” & essentially say, “we see you, we care, and we feel your pain” was so on point. Some people knock U2 for wearing their hearts on their sleeves and using their platform to raise awareness & be do-gooders…especially in the world of rock entertainment where the more expected/accepted path is “sex, drugs & rock’n roll.” But this performance shows their are times when a band like U2 is vitally needed-when only a band such as U2 can pull this off. The epic emotional impact of U2’s live performances is their legacy.
Love this comment - yes when you suffer a blow you need your friends to rally around and show you are not alone💜. I'm British and I remember it so vividly how genuinely effected (and angry!) we all were and how much we wanted America to know they were not alone😢. I love U2 they are so talented and so uplifting and genuinely inspiring. I love their music but also just them too basically as people they are so down to earth and yet inspiring. I recently heard how they were once threatened by the IRA but they didn't let that stop them so they weren't going to show fear in this situation either. They have had so many albums over the years I think because of that they have become taken for granted and underrated. Now the pandemic is over and with everything happening in the world I would love to hear some new music from them again - soon hopefully🤞
Like someone else mentioned, name scroll was U2's idea. Here's a performance in Madison Square Garden a month after 9/11. They also bring a bunch of first responders onto the stage. It's at the 1:35:00 mark. ua-cam.com/video/lMHTLH5YhKw/v-deo.html
The names backdrop was already part of U2's show. Some people didn't want them to use it fearing it would offend the survivors of the victims but Bono demanded it saying it was a great tribute. There is a video on UA-cam about how/why U2 was ultimately chosen to perform. Janet Jackson was originally supposed to perform but after 9/11 she canceled and the search was on. It shows some of the players talking about walking out of the locker rooms after halftime and seeing the names scrolling and the emotions that washed over them. The video tells of grown men crying when Bono pulls open his jacket to reveal the American flag. It's really a great video. You think you cried during this? Just wait!
This one is a true gem! You said it right. It is great in it's simplicity. Four man on the stage and just making music. Much better than the overproduced s…. from today. U2 were truely the only band to handle this! Greetings from Germany and thank you for your reactions. They are giving joy in this weird time.
I can't think of another band who could do this more sincerely. A moving tribute to the many lost souls...well done for getting through it Dave. The Joshua Tree was a superb album. A good track to play loud is 'Bullet The Blue Sky'...I'll copy a comment about it from wiki: Bono asked guitarist the Edge to "put El Salvador through an amplifier." "Bullet the Blue Sky" is one of the band's most overtly political songs, with live performances often being heavily critical of political conflicts and violence. Also on there, was my favourite slow jam 'With Or Without You'...but, man...I think it's eclipsed now by Band-Maid 'Daydreaming' when I need them majestic rock power-ballad feels (It actually has some U2 style chiming guitar early on...but it's not a rip-off...it's a masterclass composition).
I can't listen to that song and not think of (after I found out) Bono sitting in the damn bathtub writing it 🤣🤣 I f*cking LOVE that song, and I just... Yeah.. Bono in the fuckin bathtub writing it. That's the damn genius only he possess... He can write the most political or religious songs, and the way he writes them, the average listener has no damn idea what they're singing along about, LOL. Even his overt political songs (Sunday bloody Sunday, Miss Sarajevo, MLK, etc) are written in a way that you have to be on your game to really realize what he's saying. He writes them in a way that no matter what you believe, you really can't be offended, make sense? I've said for over 20 years that he's the best lyricist of all time. All time. No question.
One more thing I wanted to add, thanks for recognizing U2's rhythm section! I think you may actually be the first video I've seen that has complimented them. As a bassist, I have always loved Adam Clayton's style and he has been a big influence on my playing. There are many in the bass community that like to slag him off and think he is not very talented. So it was nice to hear him and Larry Mullen Jr. getting some praise. Cheers!
Something you have to know about the band members of U2. They grew up in Northern Ireland in the 1970s. Terrorist attacks were pretty much an every day thing. There were British soldiers on every corner to try and keep the peace between the two political factions at war with each other. Not unlike what Israel deals with only Ireland didn't have the Iron Dome and they were fighting their own countrymen in the streets. Very hostile and dangerous environment. Shopping centers being blown up were not uncommon. For the band members of U2, this was their reality growing up. They've always held a particular feeling of compassion and empathy toward victims of terrorism (their song Mothers of the Disappeared was written for victims of terrorism). U2 has also always had a deep, outspoken and unapologetic admiration of America as a country, particularly its musical history. This appearance shortly after 911 was an extremely emotional but very unifying moment for the country and is one of the reasons I will always love this band.
The most poignant halftime show ever. Not a big U2 fan but what they did that day was perfection. Deserves a 10. Do agree on the rhythm section. Couldn't be tighter if you epoxied them together.
You're having the same reaction that everyone who watched this performance had the first time back in February of 2002. No other artist I've ever heard can punch the breath from your lungs quite like U2 can when given the chance. They take every last second and make them count.
Its was a great review..they were amazing and yes hit you in the feels I remember watching that day..worse then..and agree bass drums..always..tight as you say..from many yrs of playing together
America was in a state of grief and U2 was there in the moment grieving with us and making us feel better with music, truly a spiritual experience indeed.....oh my favorite bass drum combo is entwhistle moon, but this u2 combo is very good as well, bono is one of the best front man ever in the same league as Daltrey and plant
U2 weren't capitalizing on the patriotic wave which happened after 9/11. The band has always loved America and Americana which is evident throughout the landscape of The Joshua Tree and Rattle and Hum albums. In one of the biographies Bono talks about their desire to get to America early in their career and how the Irish view America as a Promised Land of sorts (Bono on Bono - Conversations with Mischka Assayas).
Totally feel ya David!! 😊💓🤘✌️🇺🇲 Freakin goosebumps, your very passionate man that's why we love ya!! I love U2, AMAZING PERFORMANCE!! Great reaction David!! ✌️
Hiya buddie , I know this was emotional for you but emotions are part of the healing process , I'm from Ireland . I remember seeing this tragedy unfold on the TV . Always remember America will most definitely have very good friends in Ireland ☘️ loved your reaction ! Please 🙏 don't think too much about this horrific event no one will ever forget these wonderful human beings that perished never
I saw U2 in concert in December of 2001 in Miami. Now it was the last concert of the Elevation Tour and I had read about them scrolling the names of the 9/11 victims. But I was so in the moment of seeing U2 live that I just wasn't thinking about it at all. Then "One" started. It's an emotional song to begin with, hearing it live takes that up a bunch of notches, and THEN you add scrolling the 9/11 victims (I'm from NY too) in large lettering behind your favorite band, and it was one of the most moving moments of my life. Tears were streaming down my face like waterfalls. When I looked around the crowd midway through the song I saw that I was far from alone. Many fans were having a similar reaction. It was a powerful moment unlike any other that I have ever experienced 😭.
I've been to one Super Bowl, this was it. Just incredible, and 20 years later it has stood the test of time, and possibly has grown in lore given what Tom Brady has done. I have one regret, that I didn't take my daughter rather than a friend. Mad props to U2 for doing an amazing, respectable performance.
People always talk about perfect actors being cast for perfect roles. And how rare it is when the perfect actor meets the perfect role at the perfect time. James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano. Michael K Williams as Omar Little. Bryan Cranston as Walter White... But every once in a while a moment arises that needs the right band to capture and maximize the moment live in real time. Queen at Live Aid Is an example of that. U2 was the perfect band for this moment in every imaginable way. And I’m not even a massive U2 fan. But I cannot think of another band who could’ve absolutely killed a moment quite like them at this point in their career. Keep up the great work man. I enjoy your channel a lot. You come across very genuine and authentic… Which is rare these days on UA-cam
9/11 tributes always get me. I remeber after the first plane hit my dad called my mom and told her to turn on the news and start taping, I remember watching the second plane hit, my mom thought they were replaying the first plane at first. At the time my dad was a security guard at Indian Point, I remeber my mom worried that it might end up being another target. My cousin was stationed at the Pentagon then, I remeber the family being concerned until we found out she had actually stayed home that day because her kid was too sick. We need more tributes like this, I hate how people have forgotten. Believing that being a Patriot means that the country can do no wrong, or that we have to burn it down because there are issues to address.
You and I are about the same age man. I just came here by accident after watching that superbowl halftime show. You look like a metal dude and so am I. My favorite band is slayer and I'm telling you that performance is emotional as hell. It hits home and when that happened I was on the roof at work and had no idea it happened until we went on lunch and went to the bar and it was on every TV in there. It was crazy! We wrapped it up and went home to watch it and see exactly what happened and it was just a crazy time. The Hells Angel's here went on every fast food restaurant roof and installed an American flag on it. Made me want to join the device but I ended up getting my gf at the time pregnant and couldn't. So to see you get emotional hits home my man! Loved your reaction and I subscribed.
Great reaction. U2 are truly just an amazing live band. I also want to say, your reactions seem real and pure, and I truly appreciate it. If I may suggest a reaction...Counting Crows- Rain King(acoustic version). I truly feel it's an underrated live performance.
Hey brother. Great reaction and love this halftime show. As a guy that struggles or Id say don’t give a F about life. You’re the first person of reaction of this song tonight April 17. 2022 of me seeing. I struggle with depression and anxiety but have no medication but I just drink mate. There are days I just want to end it brother but I’m still here. I’ve been drinking tonight and don’t give a shit. I came across This video reaction. I just want to say thank you. I’m drunk , but thank you. I’m still alive
Awww... it's okay to cry. I also get very emotional when I see this performance. We all witness that tragic day and it's hard not to cry. I went to Ground Zero in New York, and it was very hard to be there. I didn't cry, but there was complete silence. I felt something heavy in my chest. Watching this performance and reading the victims' names makes me cry. It is my favorite U2 performance. I love your reaction.
Brother your video popped up after the actual video of the half time performance I just watched. U2 is my favorite band of all time, and I was curious which way you were gonna go with your video. But dude your opening sequence of your video was awesome so I sat down and ordered a beer at your bar, so to speak, LOL. Gotta hand it to you, bud... That was an awesome review. I still can't watch it without tearing up, real talk. It will, without any doubt, go down as THE best halftime show in the history of the NFL. Nothing else will ever come close. Happily subscribed, brother! Look forward to your other videos! -Jack *Btw, the names on the back drop (each name was like 24 inches tall, I believe) was Bono's idea. He's a damn good guy.
I remember when I was about 13 years old, I first saw a plane crashing into the Twin Towers. On the front of the newspaper, at school in my country. It's always heartbreaking to see the stories from that day. Even though it has passed It's been more than 20 years.
it’s so hard for me as someone who grew up listening to U2 to fully accept this was the last time they were universally loved. They were still near the top of the world, but after vertigo came out and Bono wanted (i believe genuinely) wanted to make the world issues known and understood and get help from governments that could literally help more than a rock band could, and he just became a meme and a joke. it’s a sad reality but it’s the reality we live in.
@Ace if that’s the case your reality is an idyllic world. i had friends tell me in high school (circa 2004) that U2 sucks(i had the u2 ipod at the time and that is the response i got to having it, not admiration. and that’s 3 years after this show, and 3 years later in 2007, south park would literally destroy any good faith they had left with the public. they aren’t a joke in my opinion but to say other people don’t view them as such is to deny reality
@@gjagielom2 LOL. Ummmmm South Park has a veiwership of like 1 million people around 18 to 30. You think a show that makes fun of pretty much everyone would be the thing that would turn public opinion is ludicrous. U2 had the biggest tour of all time in 2009, had the biggest tour of 2016, can sell out stadiums in any country in the world. Do i really care what a person thinks of U2 because of South Park? they were somehow emotionally scarred by Apple putting a free album on their phone? No i do not. In fact i am happy for them not to be fans.
@@nianfiedler9691 Agree 100 percent. Honestly, 99 percent of the u2 haters I've seen should stay far far away from the band in my opinion. Why would I want to share a concert with them in the first place?
Bono is more patriotic than alot of Americans As an Irishman loving the United States , and I quote, "America is more than just a country, It's an idea" ~ Bono
Perfect reaction and rating! U2 puts a lot of thought and pride not just into their amazing shows, but also into their performances. This is why I love them so much. Their songs, music and lyrics touched so many and I can say honestly, as a huge fan, they helped me going through some very hard times in my life. I wish every artist would use their influence they have especially to their fans, to reach out, make people think, give them hope and just make them better persons. The U2 fan community is amazing and I made so many wonderful friends all over the world. One of my favorite quotes from Bono is :” Music can change the world, because it can change people” U2’s music is the soundtrack of my life and I’m very grateful to have that big love in my heart. If you’re looking for a other breathtaking performance, try the performance from “Every Braking Wave “ at the MTV music reward show. It always gives me goosebumps 🥰
Thomas F Joyce told he would be excommunicated by Arch Diocese of Philadelphia because he had a little prosperity and helped rebuild an Episcopalian Church that had burned down. Damnation of his soul as he brought All Broadcasting. He said, "You do what you have to do and so will I." They backed down.
This is BY FAR, the best Super Bowl half time show ever. Yes, even better than Prince. Beyond the 9/11 aspect Prince's was inferior mainly because it was mostly a really long medley. I generally feel medleys are inferior, as they shorten the songs, taking away from the real tone and feel. This was definitely true for Prince's performance. All the songs were truncated and worse versions, I would rather have less songs in their full length.
This is all from U2. They did this for their Madison Garden show on the Elevation Tour. It was the first big event held in NYC just after 9/11. They scrolled the names and had members of the NYPD and FDNY on stage. NFL approached them about doing the same for the halftime show. I went to that show and can say, of my many U2 shows, it was the most uplifting and emotion experience.
The greatest and most emotional halftime show ever. The unity in this country after 9/11 was inspiring. Unfortunately I don't that would happen today This country was very different 20 years ago.
And you know this is just a tract of a U2 show at the time (Elevation tour) and all U2 shows are like this more than good music and performance or stage, it's about the message, "because if you don't feel the music what is the point?" is what Bono says
10, because there will never be a U2 Superbowl half-time show after a tragedy like that, ever again. And for the in depth thoughtfulness of the band and the particular song that is about heaven.
This was an amazing performance. I remember watching it at the time. I haven't seen it since. It brought back a lot of those raw feelings. What did they do to those people, to our country, ... to all of us? U2 did what we all needed then. It helped, if even but a little.
U2 always seemed like a band that whatever they played and sang about it was meant for you too. Like we all have our own lives and things we experience throughout whether they’re good or bad things. You too…
Sir, or anyone who is a Heretic fan, what were the other 3 "10" rated songs? I must have missed them, I have not seen those reviews yet and would like to.
Seeing those names scrolling down endlessly down the screen. It feels like an ominous weight is pressing down on everyone. You can literally feel the absolute horror and devastation brought on the families and the entire nation. Bono and U2 are a great fit for this moment in history. It’s that moment it all became to real.
think everybody felt the way you did all the planes that day had to come here in eastern canada and we took people in that couldnt get to usa because planes grounded that day many us eastern canadians took all usa people into are homes we were with you all the way great vid
And to think, nowadays the American flag is considered offensive and any negative feelings toward 9/11 is considered "islamaphobic" and school children are being taught that terrorists "aren't such bad guys" and the real ones to blame were Americans. It's also worth pointing out that with this new flock of youth and generations being churned out like clockwork, the REAL tragedy will be forgotten as most (eventually all) people around would not even been alive when that happened, which means it will be prime opportunity to rewrite history as it always gets paid to change it's mind. And a whole new definition of tragic will be the new reality, which is what I described above.
I've said this elsewhere but the fact this was U2 had an even deeper significance. They rose on the back of a horrific civil war full of terrorist horrors, upon which they shone a relentless and unforgiving light showing the brutal reality behind the posturing from all sides. And there was a LOT of posturing, along with a lot of good old-fashioned bigotry (my school friend's father went apeshit when he saw U2 raise the Irish flag, it was that inflammatory a situation. He was a twat.) This is the band that reflected some of our worst moments and made us face the reality of ordinary people whose lives were instantly puffed out for idealogies. So for them to be the band that showed YOUR absolute atrocity such respect is very powerful. They brought it right back to us - we aren't the decision makers or breakers, we don't know the gnarly realities of the posturing not do we support the politicos doing it half the time, we just want to live our lives. Destroying others who have no part in whatever your personal beef may be is never the answer. Never. I'm not religious but may all rest in peace. I'm so sorry this happened to you all.
If you watch the documentary on this performance, U2 was not the original choice. I don't know who was, but after 9/11 several NFL people saw U2 perform in boston, and saw U2 do this tribute live there made them select U2 for the halftime show. This performance will always be my favorite, the song choice and the respect shown. That guitar intro is always so epic in my opinion, but hearing it echo through a stadium like that, is just haunting
I have never seen anything like this before, I am from Manchester UK and that 9,11 situation ripped me up. God bless America, to this day it tears me up. To have my favourite band performing at superbowl in aid of this catastrophic event was the right choice.
Thanks Dave, I have actually watched this vid a few times and it tears me up every time, you lost it and rightly so. Only U2 could pull that off at that time, NFL players were coming out at half time to watch them.
It was a dark day brother, I'm Irish born and reared, my Auntie Marie was working over there, she's on that list, I took her last call, she met death with grace, fast forward, ex BAF three combat tours, they offered me vengeance, or so I thought att, so I took it, all the best brother, head high, no shame in the hurt of losing your country men and women 🇮🇪🇬🇧🇺🇲
U2 was on tour starting a few months earlier (October 2001) and were doing the name scroll thing. This wasn’t unique to the Super Bowl performance. The entire set up was a mini version of their current tour.
Would love to see someone react to old U2. They were so good up to Acthung Baby. October and Unforgettable Fire are masterpieces and as good as Joshua Tree, but are forgotten by time I feel.
Definitely agree that October and unforgettable fire are overlooked. You should give 90s U2 another try. Achtung Baby is a masterpiece as well but Zooropa and Pop were such unique albums with some really underrated songs.
I saw them at Milton Keynes Bowl in 1986 with REM and the Ramones. Amazing day even though it rained non-stop and the bowl was just a giant mud slide. We were all soaked and covered in mud but we didn't care because the band's were so good. The exuberance of youth!
I’ve been a fan for 35 years and seen them 12 times. Anyone that thinks October is better than Achtung Baby or like 8 of their other albums, i don’t take their opinion seriously.
From a musical standpoint, the NFL wanted to pre record the performance because the NFL was worried that previous artists could not handle a large stadium performance and wouldnt sound good. U2 told the NFL we do this every night, we are doing it live, U2 also understood the emotion of a live performance over something pre recorded.
Bono’s jacket from that night is in the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.
U2’s Halftime Show is still considered to be the greatest halftime show of all time.
Love U2, but I gotta go with Prince...U2 no.2
@@2eurocoin wrong..think of the time
As well it should be. I'm not a big U2 fan by any measure. But, this video just gets me every time. I remember watching it live (on TV)... and still get the chills every time I see this.
As David was saying... this his every feel there is.
EVER!!!!!
The scrolling of the names was definitely U2's idea. I saw them in Chicago a month after 9/11 and they were doing the same thing in honoring the victims this way. It was a powerful moment and we really needed U2 at that moment in time.
I saw them at Notre Dame's Joyce Center on October 10th, if I remember the date right. Mind-blowing experience.
I sawxthem 10/30/2001 in providence, RI. They were already scrolling the names at that point. But, I believe they were doing it at the end to Walk On. Was done in total reverence to those lost that day. Deeply emotional.
10 totally agree. One of the most iconic and perfectly positioned halftime performances ever. Huge emotional connection by the band, choice of song, way it was delivered, recognition of where the nation was and what was needed, and finally the tribute to all those so tragically lost.
The names scrolling was ALL U2's doing. There is even Super Bowl mini-doc where there NFL organizers talk about deciding if/when the Super Bowl would happen, and who they would get. U2 were one of the only bands touring. Remember, travel was highly restricted for a few months. A few of the NFL organizers went to a U2 show, and saw U2 do this performance as well. (in New York they brought many of the 1st responders who's were at 9/11 on stage as well)
I saw that mini documentary too. In fact I was just looking for it, and I can’t find it anywhere. They have the other halftime shows like prince, Tom Petty, Springsteen and the documentary behind them… But no U2 anymore. It’s weird.
Thomas F Joyce. Christ the King. Father dear friends with John Facenda. Grand father broadcast first Mass and NFL game. Hang in there friend. This was turned into a Sting Operation. About to WIn. Amen.
U2 were teh ONLY band to agree to do the show, every other act including "american" said no out of fear but these 4 Fighting Irish decided to show America that it was ok to have fun again and yet pay tribute to those who passed......the emotional performance was incredible and the band were not even american!
Still the best Super Bowl halftime show of all time.
Great reaction.
U2 went against the tide after 9/11 . While a lot of artists cancelled tours u2 carried on with the elevation tour just weeks after 9/11 . They were some of U2’s greatest ever shows. I don’t think there’s any artist out there that can push emotion like u2 do.
Their album at the time all that you can’t leave behind became a big heeler for Americans. The record took a totally new meaning after 9/11.
Freaking love the album All That You Can’t Leave Behind, one of their best albums and contains one of my favorite songs by them, Walk On(extended live version is even better)
City of Blinding Lights is a song about New York in the weeks after 9/11, the same period U2 did the US leg of their tour.
The song is about the strength and resilience of the people from New York during that time.
Not only that, U2 put NYC tickets up for sale AFTER 9/11. So they didn't have to cancel any shows... they put them on!!!! Legends.
You hit the nail on the head. In an interview with the NFL people, they did NOT want to do it, but BONO said it was there duty TO DO IT in their honor.
More on the performance. I wish you reacted to the full performance (2 and a quarter songs). Beautiful Day started with Bono entering, walking slowly through the crowd to the stage. The symbolism is understated (one WITH everyone, no separation between band and audience). They had free reign to choose any song they wanted. Elevation was a rising hit single at the time. It was a huge crowd pleaser that gets the crowd going. Instead they chose Where The Streets Have No Name, as the meaning and feeling was the right sentiment. By this time in their career, U2 were known for putting on the most highly technical and extravagant performances ever ZooTV and Popmart were critically praised and enormously successful tours that changed the concert industry. They could have easily put on an enormous spectacle with fireworks, pyrotechnics and huge production. As you stated in the video, this performance was stripped down. This was entirely purposeful on U2's part. The focus is clearly and decidedly hones in on the names of the victims. (Even the actual flags you see were brought by the audience, and not specifically placed by U2).
Other details: The names are also projected on to the audience. For the first time, at U2's request, all the advertisement videoscreens were turned off during the performance (they came back up, when the screen fell). The names scroll up to the sky, not down (Another choice). The names don't just stop or disappear towards the end of the song. The entire screen falls (symbolism of the towers falling is clear, but simple and understated), and the lights go outward into the audience. The only flag displayed by the band is at the end when Bono reveals it inside his jacket. Again simple symbolism here. He could have warn a flag jacket or shirt or hat. Instead, he reveals the flag inside his jacket - it is inside close to him.
Every single choice and all energy of the perforemance, from song selection to production, what they included and also chose NOT to do, was in service to the humans lost
Great explanation, Mike. Thank you.
@@AndTheRoadGoesEverOn Its just such a great performance, deceivingly simple. But its easy to so how any other choices in the details and execution would yield different results
This is why I love U2 so much for over 30 years now
Thanks, man. Really nice gotchas from how they designed the show. Very cool
Beautifully put Sir, best wishes from Dublin, Ireland 👍🇮🇪🇺🇲💚
Came across this review by accident, great video and a quality review! U2 are my favourite band by a mile, there music has so much meaning and when you watch this video, it really puts it into perspective that despite what both of our countries governments have done since 9/11 (Im from the UK), the victims on that list were regular people like all of us, going to work to put food on their families tables, or literally putting there own lives at risk to save someone else, this should never be forgotten, they werent at war, the were not fighting, they literally went to work for the day and never came home, so sad. Incredible, emotional performance! Keep up the good work on your channel, quality!
The intro and outro of that song gives me goosebumps every time. Love it. One of those names was my neighbor when I was growing up. Back yard neighbor I guess you'd say as the back of our houses faced each other. Todd Beamer of flight 93 is an American hero along with the other's who stormed the cockpit and his words "let's roll" I see almost every day on the back of semi trailers, or on mud flaps and memorials everywhere. I won't ever forget. My dad (a veteran) ALWAYS put up the flag for memorial day, or veterans day etc. Or he made me do it. Ever since and still at 80 years old he puts it up every single morning when he goes to get his paper off the driveway. I really need to do the same.
I was a mess watching this live.... and it still gives me chills watching 20 years later....U2 stepped up..... perhaps the Best halftime Superbowl show ever!
Your reaction touched my soul. We need more humans like you.
No pitchforks or torches here David, the score and reason for it was spot on. I've been a U2 fan for over 30 years and whilst I understand they aren't the most technical band their message and the way they get it out there is what makes them stand out. Even though I'm Scottish and have no American links this one still hits hard and it's good to see U2 do their bit to try and help the healing.
You hit the nail on the head for the reasoning behind the score of 10,
But I wouldn't have expected anything less from U2,
They ARE An ORIGINAL OF THE SPECIES!❤
Thank you for reviewing this and sharing it with your audience. Alot of people don't understand why U2 is so special. They look at the musicianship and say "nothing special or complicated there". After watching this video, they now see the heart of U2. A heart or place with no sorrow or no shame. Where the Streets Have No Name.
Oh... this. This video. No words. Thank you for featuring this. I'm no longer a U2 groupie but I will always respect them. Lots of heart. Also, notice the names are scrolling UP, not down. Perfection.
It's ok to cry buddy I cried to ❤️.. Bono said In a interview that the main reason for the names was that the band wanted to celebrate those people's lives and they didn't want their families to feel that their love one was just a statistics.. love your channel
Thanks Dave! So glad I requested it. Brought back a ton of memories for me. I saw them that year in Florida for the all you can't leave behind tour. It was actually about a month after this performance. I can tell you they used the wall of names for that entire tour. My show they did it during the song walk on. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house. So I think since they did it during the entire tour the original idea likely was theirs. Whoever thought of it was brilliant because it was the highlight of the tour and that is consistently ranked and one of the best halftime shows ever. Loved the score and the reason behind it. Well done as always!!
This was really good! As soon as the opening notes Streets started I began to tear up. You nailed it. Such an emotional time and this performance was a step towards healing here in the US. 10 = perfection and I agree with you. Absolute perfection of a performance, and your reaction was so genuine, so from a New Yorker, thank you!
I've just watched your video and cried my eyes out...
I knew this U2 halftime performance for decades, but last week I was in NYC and visited Ground Zero. Tonight, at home in The Netherlands, I bumped on your video and now it struck me like lightning. I can feel you man. And don't hide your emotions; they are there for a reason.
Thank you for showing your feelings, telling stories and making vid's like this.
You've got a new subscriber!
Great score, David. Yes, U2 was THE perfect band to deliver this tribute. Even the fact they are from Ireland & not Americans themselves somehow just *worked.* 9/11 was a globally shocking event that the whole world reacted to. (I was in Europe just 2.5 weeks after the attacks and whenever people found out our group was American, EVERYONE wanted to talk to us about it.) So to have a band from another country scream out “America” & essentially say, “we see you, we care, and we feel your pain” was so on point.
Some people knock U2 for wearing their hearts on their sleeves and using their platform to raise awareness & be do-gooders…especially in the world of rock entertainment where the more expected/accepted path is “sex, drugs & rock’n roll.” But this performance shows their are times when a band like U2 is vitally needed-when only a band such as U2 can pull this off. The epic emotional impact of U2’s live performances is their legacy.
Love this comment - yes when you suffer a blow you need your friends to rally around and show you are not alone💜. I'm British and I remember it so vividly how genuinely effected (and angry!) we all were and how much we wanted America to know they were not alone😢. I love U2 they are so talented and so uplifting and genuinely inspiring. I love their music but also just them too basically as people they are so down to earth and yet inspiring. I recently heard how they were once threatened by the IRA but they didn't let that stop them so they weren't going to show fear in this situation either. They have had so many albums over the years I think because of that they have become taken for granted and underrated. Now the pandemic is over and with everything happening in the world I would love to hear some new music from them again - soon hopefully🤞
@@leogem177 They had a heart for victims of terrorism because they experienced it growing up in Northern Ireland in the 70s.
@@09penny1They’re from Ireland. The Republic of Ireland. Not Northern Ireland.
Like someone else mentioned, name scroll was U2's idea. Here's a performance in Madison Square Garden a month after 9/11. They also bring a bunch of first responders onto the stage. It's at the 1:35:00 mark. ua-cam.com/video/lMHTLH5YhKw/v-deo.html
The names backdrop was already part of U2's show. Some people didn't want them to use it fearing it would offend the survivors of the victims but Bono demanded it saying it was a great tribute. There is a video on UA-cam about how/why U2 was ultimately chosen to perform. Janet Jackson was originally supposed to perform but after 9/11 she canceled and the search was on. It shows some of the players talking about walking out of the locker rooms after halftime and seeing the names scrolling and the emotions that washed over them. The video tells of grown men crying when Bono pulls open his jacket to reveal the American flag. It's really a great video. You think you cried during this? Just wait!
Does anyone have a link for the video about how/why U2 was chosen? I searched on here and Google, but couldn’t find it.
This one is a true gem! You said it right. It is great in it's simplicity. Four man on the stage and just making music. Much better than the overproduced s…. from today. U2 were truely the only band to handle this! Greetings from Germany and thank you for your reactions. They are giving joy in this weird time.
I can't think of another band who could do this more sincerely. A moving tribute to the many lost souls...well done for getting through it Dave. The Joshua Tree was a superb album. A good track to play loud is 'Bullet The Blue Sky'...I'll copy a comment about it from wiki: Bono asked guitarist the Edge to "put El Salvador through an amplifier." "Bullet the Blue Sky" is one of the band's most overtly political songs, with live performances often being heavily critical of political conflicts and violence. Also on there, was my favourite slow jam 'With Or Without You'...but, man...I think it's eclipsed now by Band-Maid 'Daydreaming' when I need them majestic rock power-ballad feels (It actually has some U2 style chiming guitar early on...but it's not a rip-off...it's a masterclass composition).
I can't listen to that song and not think of (after I found out) Bono sitting in the damn bathtub writing it 🤣🤣 I f*cking LOVE that song, and I just... Yeah.. Bono in the fuckin bathtub writing it.
That's the damn genius only he possess... He can write the most political or religious songs, and the way he writes them, the average listener has no damn idea what they're singing along about, LOL. Even his overt political songs (Sunday bloody Sunday, Miss Sarajevo, MLK, etc) are written in a way that you have to be on your game to really realize what he's saying. He writes them in a way that no matter what you believe, you really can't be offended, make sense?
I've said for over 20 years that he's the best lyricist of all time. All time. No question.
One more thing I wanted to add, thanks for recognizing U2's rhythm section! I think you may actually be the first video I've seen that has complimented them. As a bassist, I have always loved Adam Clayton's style and he has been a big influence on my playing. There are many in the bass community that like to slag him off and think he is not very talented. So it was nice to hear him and Larry Mullen Jr. getting some praise. Cheers!
Something you have to know about the band members of U2. They grew up in Northern Ireland in the 1970s. Terrorist attacks were pretty much an every day thing. There were British soldiers on every corner to try and keep the peace between the two political factions at war with each other. Not unlike what Israel deals with only Ireland didn't have the Iron Dome and they were fighting their own countrymen in the streets. Very hostile and dangerous environment. Shopping centers being blown up were not uncommon. For the band members of U2, this was their reality growing up. They've always held a particular feeling of compassion and empathy toward victims of terrorism (their song Mothers of the Disappeared was written for victims of terrorism). U2 has also always had a deep, outspoken and unapologetic admiration of America as a country, particularly its musical history. This appearance shortly after 911 was an extremely emotional but very unifying moment for the country and is one of the reasons I will always love this band.
The most poignant halftime show ever. Not a big U2 fan but what they did that day was perfection. Deserves a 10. Do agree on the rhythm section. Couldn't be tighter if you epoxied them together.
Far cry from the garbage halftime shows that are brought in now
You're having the same reaction that everyone who watched this performance had the first time back in February of 2002.
No other artist I've ever heard can punch the breath from your lungs quite like U2 can when given the chance. They take every last second and make them count.
Its was a great review..they were amazing and yes hit you in the feels I remember watching that day..worse then..and agree bass drums..always..tight as you say..from many yrs of playing together
America was in a state of grief and U2 was there in the moment grieving with us and making us feel better with music, truly a spiritual experience indeed.....oh my favorite bass drum combo is entwhistle moon, but this u2 combo is very good as well, bono is one of the best front man ever in the same league as Daltrey and plant
Speaking of The Who, their performance for the 9/11 first responders is absolutely worth watching.
Watching this 2 years after you posted…great reaction and agree with the score and it’s reasoning.
U2 weren't capitalizing on the patriotic wave which happened after 9/11. The band has always loved America and Americana which is evident throughout the landscape of The Joshua Tree and Rattle and Hum albums. In one of the biographies Bono talks about their desire to get to America early in their career and how the Irish view America as a Promised Land of sorts (Bono on Bono - Conversations with Mischka Assayas).
Totally feel ya David!! 😊💓🤘✌️🇺🇲 Freakin goosebumps, your very passionate man that's why we love ya!! I love U2, AMAZING PERFORMANCE!! Great reaction David!! ✌️
Why am I crying with you. I swear I didn’t sign up for this and I’m not even done with the video. Take care David, see you in the next one :)
Me too...thank you for sharing.
Agree with your assessment of bassist and drummer for this group. Super tight.
It’s 23 years since 9/11 and I still get teary eyed seeing the names scrolling up. 🥃
Thing to note... this video was missing the first song they played.. Beautiful Day.
Hiya buddie , I know this was emotional for you but emotions are part of the healing process , I'm from Ireland . I remember seeing this tragedy unfold on the TV . Always remember America will most definitely have very good friends in Ireland ☘️ loved your reaction ! Please 🙏 don't think too much about this horrific event no one will ever forget these wonderful human beings that perished never
I saw U2 in concert in December of 2001 in Miami. Now it was the last concert of the Elevation Tour and I had read about them scrolling the names of the 9/11 victims. But I was so in the moment of seeing U2 live that I just wasn't thinking about it at all. Then "One" started. It's an emotional song to begin with, hearing it live takes that up a bunch of notches, and THEN you add scrolling the 9/11 victims (I'm from NY too) in large lettering behind your favorite band, and it was one of the most moving moments of my life. Tears were streaming down my face like waterfalls. When I looked around the crowd midway through the song I saw that I was far from alone. Many fans were having a similar reaction. It was a powerful moment unlike any other that I have ever experienced 😭.
I've been to one Super Bowl, this was it. Just incredible, and 20 years later it has stood the test of time, and possibly has grown in lore given what Tom Brady has done. I have one regret, that I didn't take my daughter rather than a friend. Mad props to U2 for doing an amazing, respectable performance.
It deserves a 10, straight up this all combined was an incredibly emotional show!!!!
Thank you for this video, and thank you for your honesty bro
This makes me WELL-UP everytime I see it! Thanks again U2!!
People always talk about perfect actors being cast for perfect roles. And how rare it is when the perfect actor meets the perfect role at the perfect time. James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano. Michael K Williams as Omar Little. Bryan Cranston as Walter White...
But every once in a while a moment arises that needs the right band to capture and maximize the moment live in real time. Queen at Live Aid Is an example of that. U2 was the perfect band for this moment in every imaginable way. And I’m not even a massive U2 fan. But I cannot think of another band who could’ve absolutely killed a moment quite like them at this point in their career.
Keep up the great work man. I enjoy your channel a lot. You come across very genuine and authentic… Which is rare these days on UA-cam
9/11 tributes always get me. I remeber after the first plane hit my dad called my mom and told her to turn on the news and start taping, I remember watching the second plane hit, my mom thought they were replaying the first plane at first. At the time my dad was a security guard at Indian Point, I remeber my mom worried that it might end up being another target. My cousin was stationed at the Pentagon then, I remeber the family being concerned until we found out she had actually stayed home that day because her kid was too sick. We need more tributes like this, I hate how people have forgotten. Believing that being a Patriot means that the country can do no wrong, or that we have to burn it down because there are issues to address.
You and I are about the same age man. I just came here by accident after watching that superbowl halftime show. You look like a metal dude and so am I. My favorite band is slayer and I'm telling you that performance is emotional as hell. It hits home and when that happened I was on the roof at work and had no idea it happened until we went on lunch and went to the bar and it was on every TV in there. It was crazy! We wrapped it up and went home to watch it and see exactly what happened and it was just a crazy time. The Hells Angel's here went on every fast food restaurant roof and installed an American flag on it. Made me want to join the device but I ended up getting my gf at the time pregnant and couldn't. So to see you get emotional hits home my man! Loved your reaction and I subscribed.
Great reaction. U2 are truly just an amazing live band. I also want to say, your reactions seem real and pure, and I truly appreciate it. If I may suggest a reaction...Counting Crows- Rain King(acoustic version). I truly feel it's an underrated live performance.
Love you Dave for showing so much heart. People get flack nowadays for showing compassion. Kudos.
Great analysis man!
Hey brother. Great reaction and love this halftime show. As a guy that struggles or Id say don’t give a F about life. You’re the first person of reaction of this song tonight April 17. 2022 of me seeing. I struggle with depression and anxiety but have no medication but I just drink mate. There are days I just want to end it brother but I’m still here. I’ve been drinking tonight and don’t give a shit. I came across This video reaction. I just want to say thank you. I’m drunk , but thank you. I’m still alive
Awww... it's okay to cry. I also get very emotional when I see this performance. We all witness that tragic day and it's hard not to cry. I went to Ground Zero in New York, and it was very hard to be there. I didn't cry, but there was complete silence. I felt something heavy in my chest. Watching this performance and reading the victims' names makes me cry. It is my favorite U2 performance. I love your reaction.
16:42 - Oh, shit! I just noticed the projection banner with the names collapses like the towers!
Brother your video popped up after the actual video of the half time performance I just watched. U2 is my favorite band of all time, and I was curious which way you were gonna go with your video. But dude your opening sequence of your video was awesome so I sat down and ordered a beer at your bar, so to speak, LOL.
Gotta hand it to you, bud... That was an awesome review. I still can't watch it without tearing up, real talk.
It will, without any doubt, go down as THE best halftime show in the history of the NFL. Nothing else will ever come close.
Happily subscribed, brother! Look forward to your other videos!
-Jack
*Btw, the names on the back drop (each name was like 24 inches tall, I believe) was Bono's idea. He's a damn good guy.
100% agree with everything you said.. a well deserved 10… Was a phenomenal performance.. 👏👏👏
Nice heartfelt reaction Dave!
I remember when I was about 13 years old, I first saw a plane crashing into the Twin Towers. On the front of the newspaper, at school in my country. It's always heartbreaking to see the stories from that day. Even though it has passed It's been more than 20 years.
it’s so hard for me as someone who grew up listening to U2 to fully accept this was the last time they were universally loved. They were still near the top of the world, but after vertigo came out and Bono wanted (i believe genuinely) wanted to make the world issues known and understood and get help from governments that could literally help more than a rock band could, and he just became a meme and a joke. it’s a sad reality but it’s the reality we live in.
Never turned into a joke to me nor is it the reality I live in.
@Ace if that’s the case your reality is an idyllic world. i had friends tell me in high school (circa 2004) that U2 sucks(i had the u2 ipod at the time and that is the response i got to having it, not admiration. and that’s 3 years after this show, and 3 years later in 2007, south park would literally destroy any good faith they had left with the public. they aren’t a joke in my opinion but to say other people don’t view them as such is to deny reality
@@gjagielom2 LOL. Ummmmm South Park has a veiwership of like 1 million people around 18 to 30. You think a show that makes fun of pretty much everyone would be the thing that would turn public opinion is ludicrous. U2 had the biggest tour of all time in 2009, had the biggest tour of 2016, can sell out stadiums in any country in the world. Do i really care what a person thinks of U2 because of South Park? they were somehow emotionally scarred by Apple putting a free album on their phone? No i do not. In fact i am happy for them not to be fans.
@@nianfiedler9691 Agree 100 percent. Honestly, 99 percent of the u2 haters I've seen should stay far far away from the band in my opinion. Why would I want to share a concert with them in the first place?
Apple putting their album on everyone's iTunes was everyone's gripe. People just love to moan.
Bono is more patriotic than alot of Americans
As an Irishman loving the United States , and I quote, "America is more than just a country,
It's an idea" ~ Bono
Great Video Lad 👏nothing wrong showing some raw emotion for such a tragic event 🙏
Perfect reaction and rating! U2 puts a lot of thought and pride not just into their amazing shows, but also into their performances. This is why I love them so much. Their songs, music and lyrics touched so many and I can say honestly, as a huge fan, they helped me going through some very hard times in my life. I wish every artist would use their influence they have especially to their fans, to reach out, make people think, give them hope and just make them better persons. The U2 fan community is amazing and I made so many wonderful friends all over the world. One of my favorite quotes from Bono is :” Music can change the world, because it can change people”
U2’s music is the soundtrack of my life and I’m very grateful to have that big love in my heart. If you’re looking for a other breathtaking performance, try the performance from “Every Braking Wave “ at the MTV music reward show. It always gives me goosebumps 🥰
Thomas F Joyce told he would be excommunicated by Arch Diocese of Philadelphia because he had a little prosperity and helped rebuild an Episcopalian Church that had burned down. Damnation of his soul as he brought All Broadcasting. He said, "You do what you have to do and so will I." They backed down.
This is BY FAR, the best Super Bowl half time show ever. Yes, even better than Prince. Beyond the 9/11 aspect Prince's was inferior mainly because it was mostly a really long medley. I generally feel medleys are inferior, as they shorten the songs, taking away from the real tone and feel. This was definitely true for Prince's performance. All the songs were truncated and worse versions, I would rather have less songs in their full length.
Thanks for another great reaction video. Hope you and Mrs Heretic are doing well ❤
This is all from U2. They did this for their Madison Garden show on the Elevation Tour. It was the first big event held in NYC just after 9/11. They scrolled the names and had members of the NYPD and FDNY on stage. NFL approached them about doing the same for the halftime show. I went to that show and can say, of my many U2 shows, it was the most uplifting and emotion experience.
Well put, David. Hear hear
The greatest and most emotional halftime show ever. The unity in this country after 9/11 was inspiring. Unfortunately I don't that would happen today This country was very different 20 years ago.
❤️ Nice to see genuine emotion and empathy
I love your passion for the victims. You're heart is pointed in the right direction!
And you know this is just a tract of a U2 show at the time (Elevation tour) and all U2 shows are like this more than good music and performance or stage, it's about the message, "because if you don't feel the music what is the point?" is what Bono says
10, because there will never be a U2 Superbowl half-time show after a tragedy like that, ever again. And for the in depth thoughtfulness of the band and the particular song that is about heaven.
This was an amazing performance. I remember watching it at the time. I haven't seen it since. It brought back a lot of those raw feelings. What did they do to those people, to our country, ... to all of us? U2 did what we all needed then. It helped, if even but a little.
U2 - true legends !!!!
U2 always seemed like a band that whatever they played and sang about it was meant for you too. Like we all have our own lives and things we experience throughout whether they’re good or bad things. You too…
Sir, or anyone who is a Heretic fan, what were the other 3 "10" rated songs? I must have missed them, I have not seen those reviews yet and would like to.
+1
ua-cam.com/video/I0_0Wb2pcIs/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/DJTiWzHS_uE/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/jlE-5NRkuIs/v-deo.html
@@THEDavidHeretic so 3 of 4 10s came from pearl jam or Eddie vedder. Are you finally ready to admit to your brother that you are a pearl jam fan! Lol.
@@jasonkart1651 NEVERRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!
@@THEDavidHeretic lol
Thank you.
Seeing those names scrolling down endlessly down the screen. It feels like an ominous weight is pressing down on everyone. You can literally feel the absolute horror and devastation brought on the families and the entire nation. Bono and U2 are a great fit for this moment in history. It’s that moment it all became to real.
You never made a mistake pal. Your a good man.
What were the other three 10's? Like to watch the videos but want to be able to find them.
I found 2 of them
ua-cam.com/video/DJTiWzHS_uE/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/jlE-5NRkuIs/v-deo.html
@@THEDavidHeretic thank you!!!!
think everybody felt the way you did all the planes that day had to come here in eastern canada and we took people in that couldnt get to usa because planes grounded that day many us eastern canadians took all usa people into are homes we were with you all the way great vid
Huge U2 fan. Love you bro! The haters below come from a very sad planet.
Deserve a 10-10 for everything and its arguable the best half time show
Fantastic
And to think, nowadays the American flag is considered offensive and any negative feelings toward 9/11 is considered "islamaphobic" and school children are being taught that terrorists "aren't such bad guys" and the real ones to blame were Americans.
It's also worth pointing out that with this new flock of youth and generations being churned out like clockwork, the REAL tragedy will be forgotten as most (eventually all) people around would not even been alive when that happened, which means it will be prime opportunity to rewrite history as it always gets paid to change it's mind. And a whole new definition of tragic will be the new reality, which is what I described above.
I got a blood pump instead of a heart and still will agree you with the 10.
I've said this elsewhere but the fact this was U2 had an even deeper significance.
They rose on the back of a horrific civil war full of terrorist horrors, upon which they shone a relentless and unforgiving light showing the brutal reality behind the posturing from all sides. And there was a LOT of posturing, along with a lot of good old-fashioned bigotry (my school friend's father went apeshit when he saw U2 raise the Irish flag, it was that inflammatory a situation. He was a twat.)
This is the band that reflected some of our worst moments and made us face the reality of ordinary people whose lives were instantly puffed out for idealogies. So for them to be the band that showed YOUR absolute atrocity such respect is very powerful. They brought it right back to us - we aren't the decision makers or breakers, we don't know the gnarly realities of the posturing not do we support the politicos doing it half the time, we just want to live our lives. Destroying others who have no part in whatever your personal beef may be is never the answer. Never.
I'm not religious but may all rest in peace. I'm so sorry this happened to you all.
If you watch the documentary on this performance, U2 was not the original choice. I don't know who was, but after 9/11 several NFL people saw U2 perform in boston, and saw U2 do this tribute live there made them select U2 for the halftime show. This performance will always be my favorite, the song choice and the respect shown. That guitar intro is always so epic in my opinion, but hearing it echo through a stadium like that, is just haunting
É arrepiante para nós brasileiros imaginem para os americanos.
Esse show foi o maior do Super Bowl de todos os tempos.
I have never seen anything like this before, I am from Manchester UK and that 9,11 situation ripped me up. God bless America, to this day it tears me up. To have my favourite band performing at superbowl in aid of this catastrophic event was the right choice.
Thanks Dave, I have actually watched this vid a few times and it tears me up every time, you lost it and rightly so. Only U2 could pull that off at that time, NFL players were coming out at half time to watch them.
It was a dark day brother, I'm Irish born and reared, my Auntie Marie was working over there, she's on that list, I took her last call, she met death with grace, fast forward, ex BAF three combat tours, they offered me vengeance, or so I thought att, so I took it, all the best brother, head high, no shame in the hurt of losing your country men and women 🇮🇪🇬🇧🇺🇲
Still easily the best halftime show- I've seen. I still get emotional when I see it. I don't think it will ever be dethroned and rightly so.
U2 was on tour starting a few months earlier (October 2001) and were doing the name scroll thing. This wasn’t unique to the Super Bowl performance. The entire set up was a mini version of their current tour.
When Bono screams not into the mic "let them know!"
Seeing those names accend to heaven where the streets have no name, love love love
❤️❤️❤️
When the screen drops before the last chorus….I mean, I’m not a religious guy but wow that was euphoric and devastating at the same time.
"Where the streets have no name"...Heaven.
Would love to see someone react to old U2. They were so good up to Acthung Baby. October and Unforgettable Fire are masterpieces and as good as Joshua Tree, but are forgotten by time I feel.
Definitely agree that October and unforgettable fire are overlooked. You should give 90s U2 another try. Achtung Baby is a masterpiece as well but Zooropa and Pop were such unique albums with some really underrated songs.
I saw them at Milton Keynes Bowl in 1986 with REM and the Ramones. Amazing day even though it rained non-stop and the bowl was just a giant mud slide. We were all soaked and covered in mud but we didn't care because the band's were so good. The exuberance of youth!
Sorry - 1985!!!
I’ve been a fan for 35 years and seen them 12 times. Anyone that thinks October is better than Achtung Baby or like 8 of their other albums, i don’t take their opinion seriously.
@@nianfiedler9691 Agreed, heck their first two albums of this milennium were better than their first three of their career.
Excellent