Larry Mullen Jr. Says U2 Could Tour in 2023 Without Him

2022-12-14

U2, “The Joshua Tree” – Story by Charles Ken, photo via Island

U2 could tour in 2023, but it would be with a different lineup than ever before, according to drummer Larry Mullen Jr.

U2 are such a unique band, in that they have maintained the same lineup since 1976. That’s so rare for a band, as usually, groups that have been together for decades go through multiple lineup changes.

That could all change, though, as drummer Larry Mullen Jr. tells The Washington Post that he probably won’t be on tour with U2 if they decide to tour in 2023, since he needs to undergo surgery from many years of playing drums.

“You only do this if you’re having the best time,” Mullen said. “And not everyone is going to make it because the price is so high. So I think the challenge is for more generosity. More openness to the process. I am autonomous and I value my autonomy. I don’t sing from the same hymn sheet. I don’t pray to the same version of God. So everyone has their limits. And you only do this if it is a great time you’re having, you know?”

It doesn’t sound like he’s quitting U2 but just doesn’t think he can withstand the touring anymore. In a Twitter thread posted after the interview was published, journalist Geoff Edgers discussed Mullen’s health by sharing other things the drummer commented on during their chat.

“I have lots of bits falling off, elbows, knees, necks, and so during Covid, when we weren’t playing, I got a chance to have a look at some of these things,” Mullen said. “So there’s some damage along the way.” On the up side of things, Mullen did say he missed performing for audiences, and Edgers added the longtime U2 member never actually said he was retiring or quitting the band.

“So I’d like to take some time, which I will do to get myself healed,” Mullen said. “And I really enjoy playing and I enjoy the process of playing and being in the company of creative people. I enjoy that. I don’t care if that’s big or small. It’s a bit like the sprout looking for water.”

View Edger’s Twitter thread on Mullen’s statement about touring below.

I’ve been told (okay, by Chris, the fan) that there is unrest in the U2 community about what Larry said in our profile. As a fan of many, I understand. It seems fair to share a few more details. https://t.co/qT2Fs0dfC0

— Geoff Edgers (@geoffedgers) November 29, 2022

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Charles Ken

Meet the expert - Charles Ken is a graduate of Michigan State University where he studied writing and history. He's a longtime music buff and covers classic rock for Audio Ink Radio. Contact him at ken@audioinkradio.com.