The iconic Irish rock band, U2, delighted their fans at their Las Vegas Sphere show with a surprise performance of Darlene Love’s beloved holiday classic, ‘Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).’ This marked the first time in nearly 36 years that the band had played the song live, with their previous rendition taking place during their renowned ‘Joshua Tree’ tour in 1987.
Watch “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” – 1987 Version
Watch – “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” – Version 2023, Performed at the Sphere in Las Vegas
Interestingly, “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)'”was not included in U2’s live/studio album Rattle and Hum, but the band did release a video of their captivating performance of the track from November 1987. Despite not being listed on the official setlist, U2 made sure to rehearse the song during soundcheck before the show, ensuring that their rendition would be flawless and memorable.
The surprise performance of this holiday classic came as U2 extended their residency at the Sphere, adding an impressive 11 extra dates to their already extensive run. With this addition, the band’s total number of shows at the Las Vegas venue now reaches an impressive 40. This residency has allowed U2 to captivate audiences night after night, showcasing their incredible talent and timeless music to fans from all over the world.
Tickets for the FINAL FOUR U2:UV Achtung Baby shows are on sale today, along with @vibeepresents VIP and Hotel packages. Visit https://t.co/KuHopvHH1u for more information. #U2UVSPHERE pic.twitter.com/Ky35gexGPP
— U2 (@U2) December 8, 2023
Listen to U2’s latest single “Atomic City” played at the Sphere, Las Vegas show 2023.
U2’s surprise rendition of “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)'”not only delighted their fans but also showcased the band’s versatility and ability to breathe new life into beloved classics. It was a truly special moment for both the band and their dedicated audience, reminding everyone of the enduring power of U2’s music and their ability to create unforgettable live experiences.
NME recently gave U2’s inaugural performance at a lavish venue a glowing five-star review. The review praised the band’s captivating stage presence and musical talent, as well as the venue’s magnificence. The writer also expressed excitement for U2’s ongoing residency in the city, known for its vibrant music scene.
In other U2 news, bassist Adam Clayton revealed in late November that the band’s progress in producing new music relies on the recovery of drummer Larry Mullen Jr, who has temporarily taken a break for the first time in four decades to undergo surgery.
Meanwhile, frontman Bono reassured fans that the band’s upcoming album will be a “unreasonable guitar record” that may not conform to practical expectations. Previously, the singer had described the album as “noisy” and “uncompromising.”
