Irish rock band U2’s lead guitarist, David Howell Evans, better known as “The Edge”, has recently been granted Irish citizenship in a ceremony held in Killarney, Co Kerry. This comes as a significant milestone in the musician’s life who was born in England but moved to Ireland with his family at the tender age of one.
Born on August 8th, 1961 in Barking, Essex, The Edge has been a vital part of U2 since its formation in 1976. Along with Bono, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr., he has contributed to the band’s success and has become one of the most recognizable and influential guitarists in the world. However, what many may not know is that his connection with Ireland goes beyond just being a part of one of its most renowned bands.
The Edge’s parents, Gwenda and Garvin Evans, were originally from South Wales but moved to London for work. However, when The Edge was just one year old, they made the decision to move to Ireland and settled in Malahide, Co Dublin. Growing up, he attended Mount Temple Comprehensive School, where he met his future bandmates and formed U2.
Despite living in Ireland for most of his life, The Edge has always held a special place in his heart for the country. In an interview with Irish Times, he said, “I’ve always felt very connected to Ireland; it’s where I grew up, where I met my friends and where I formed U2. It’s a place that has shaped me as a person and as a musician.”
The Edge’s passion for Ireland has been evident in his music as well. He and U2 have written and recorded many songs inspired by the country, including their hit single “Pride (In the Name of Love)”, which pays tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. and features a beautiful guitar solo by The Edge.
The ceremony in Killarney, where The Edge was granted Irish citizenship, was a momentous occasion for the musician and his family. It was attended by his wife, Morleigh Steinberg, and their two daughters, as well as his parents and other close relatives. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, presented The Edge with his certificate of naturalization, making him an official Irish citizen.
In his acceptance speech, The Edge expressed his gratitude towards Ireland and its people, saying, “I am truly honored and humbled to be granted Irish citizenship. Ireland has been my home for most of my life, and I am proud to now be able to call myself an Irish citizen.”
The Edge’s Irish citizenship has also been welcomed by the rest of U2 and their fans. Bono, who has been a vocal advocate for Ireland’s connection with the world, said, “The Edge is a true Irishman at heart, and I am delighted that he has been granted Irish citizenship. It is a great day for U2 and for our country.”
This is not the first time a member of U2 has been granted Irish citizenship. In 2002, drummer Larry Mullen Jr. became an Irish citizen after living in the country for over 25 years. The band’s bassist, Adam Clayton, and his wife Mariana also became Irish citizens in 2015.
The Edge’s citizenship ceremony is a testament to Ireland’s welcoming and inclusive nature. It is a country that embraces diversity and celebrates people from all walks of life. As the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, stated, “The Edge’s journey from England to Ireland and now to Irish citizenship is a story of the enduring and transformative power of Irish identity.”
The Edge’s journey from England to Ireland and now to Irish citizenship is a symbol of the strong bond he shares with the country. It is a bond that has been nurtured over decades and has become an integral part of who he is as a person and as a musician. As he continues to inspire and entertain millions with his music, The Edge will now do so as an official Irish citizen, carrying the spirit of Ireland with him wherever he goes.
