A Poignant Farewell in Song
As U2 prepares for the November 13 release of their 16th studio album, Carnaval de Luz, the band has unveiled a final, emotionally charged collaboration with the late country music legend Dolly Parton. The track, titled “Torn,” serves as the album’s closer and represents one of the final vocal recordings Parton completed before her passing in August at the age of 80, as reported by WCSX.
The collaboration originated from an initial request by Bono for Parton to contribute to an Irish folk-inspired project. While that specific concept did not resonate with the country icon, she countered with “Torn,” a song she had been developing. Bono, working alongside Snow Patrol’s Johnny McDaid, adapted the lyrics to reflect the narrative of a family in crisis. The recording process was deeply personal; Bono noted to Rolling Stone that Parton, despite her illness, “sang her heart out” and insisted on leaving her bed to track the vocals. Producer Garret “Jacknife” Lee confirmed that Parton personally heard and approved the final mix.
Returning to the Roots of Rock
Complementing the release of Carnaval de Luz, U2 returned to the site of their inception to perform a surprise set for students at Mount Temple Comprehensive School in Dublin. As detailed by the Bozeman Daily Chronicle, the performance marked the 50th anniversary of the band’s formation at the very same school.
During the 30-minute performance, the band played seven songs, including an encore of “With or Without You.” The event featured a unique collaboration with 32 students who accompanied the band on string instruments for the performance of “One.” Bono used the occasion to reflect on the band’s humble beginnings, noting that it was at Mount Temple where they learned the “humblest and hardest lesson” of their careers: the necessity of being taught.
The band’s history at the school dates back to 1976, when a 14-year-old Larry Mullen Jr. posted a note on a school bulletin board seeking musicians. That initial call led to the formation of the group then known as Feedback, consisting of Bono, The Edge, and Adam Clayton. The homecoming show served as a high-profile promotional event for the upcoming album, which is the band’s first collection of entirely new material in nine years.