Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Noel Gallagher explains why he thinks people don’t like U2 frontman Bono

Oasis star spoke candidly about divisive U2 frontman

Jacob Stolworthy
Wednesday 16 June 2021 12:45 BST
Comments
Liam Gallagher changes lyrics in apparent dig at Noel Gallagher and Bono

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Noel Gallagher has revealed why he thinks some people don’t like Bono.

The Oasis singer-songwriter was asked why the U2 frontman is so divisive during an appearance on Absolute Radio.

Speaking to Hometime presenters Andy Bush and Richie Firth, Gallagher said: “I’ve said this to him, so I’ll say it to you, nobody likes a do-gooder, nobody likes it. That’s why people like me, I’m a do-badder.”

As well being known as U2’s frontman, Bono – real name Paul Hewson – is recognised for his activism for social justice causes. Over the years, he has co-founded several charities campaigning for Africa, and held numerous benefit concerts.

In 2007, he was granted an honorary knighthood for his “services to the music industry and for his humanitarian work”.

Gallagher, who is friends with Bono, also said that he “gets a bit frustrated” when people say they don’t like U2.

“I’m like, ‘No, what you are saying is you don’t like Bono.’ It’s like you’re not telling me you don’t like one single note that they’ve ever done. It’s rubbish, it’s nonsense.”

Noel Gallagher called Bono a ‘do-gooder’ on Absolute Radio
Noel Gallagher called Bono a ‘do-gooder’ on Absolute Radio (Getty Images for Bauer Media)

He said the first side of U2’s 1987 record The Joshua Tree is “like a thriller”.

Gallagher, who now sings with the High Flying Birds, compiled a through-the-decades playlist for personalised station Absolute Radio Noel, which can be heard until 19 June.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in