Bono and U2: Between Rock and a Hard Place

Published October 8, 2005 IN THEORY Between Rock and a Hard Place Q: Rock star Bono has been criticized and praised for the spiritual messages in his band U2's music. What do you think? And in a broader sense, can rock stars/pop stars teach us something about faith? A: If mathematics is the language by which we understand God, certainly music is the means of harmonizing with God's essence. A tune or melody can speak directly to the soul and unlock some of the deepest emotions of spirituality in us. All religious orders have effectively used the power of music to deliver their message and connect their followers with higher understanding. Chants and hymns have developed out of the religious community, while composers and artists have delivered messages through their creations. An opera or a cantata communicates truths that may be based on the artist's, such as Bach's, world view, but is delivered personally by music that resonates to the individual soul. Bono is effectively communicating his views through his music. Whether he's pretentious or sincere is not judgment call we need to make. U2's music is stimulating the senses while his lyrics are exciting the soul to look beyond its self and understand the problems of the community. Disease, hunger and war are universal problems and the spiritual answers to end them are inside each of us. Remember that Rock and Roll evolved out of a rebellion against a corrupt and hypocritical establishment. The struggle continues and the religious community needs to commend and appreciate those who can rise above the mundane and address societal concerns. Those who have done so for me include John Lennon, Ian Anderson, Joan Baez and Steven Stills. And today, I'm pleased that groups such as System of a Down are able to rally the masses with their call for justice, human rights, equality and liberty for the oppressed. Here we are witnessing the responsible use of talent, coupled with the energy and spirit of music to touch the souls and spirits of people. Fr. Vazken Movsesian Armenian Church Youth Ministries