Since the early 1970s, Larry Mullen Jr. has been thrilling crowds around the world with his breathtaking performances as drummer with the rock band U2. This Irishman’s musical career is rich in achievements: a feat that has earned him a place among the greatest drummers of all time. While most of us are familiar with his career with U2, few know what he does outside the band. Discover the exceptional achievements of the man who founded U2 with three classmates, and who ranks 22nd on Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of the 100 greatest artists of all time!
Larry Mullen Jr. was born on October 31, 1961 in Dublin, Ireland. He is the second of 3 children born to Maureen Mullen and Larry Mullen Sr. He grew up until the age of 20 in the Dublin suburb of Harmonstown.
From an early age, the Irishman developed an affinity for music, and percussion in particular. In 1971, he took lessons with the great Joe Bonnie, one of Ireland’s most famous drummers! However, some of the lessons proved laborious: Larry Mullen Jr. soon proved to be undisciplined and bored by theoretical lessons, preferring action and instinctive play. He looks for “impact” rather than long speeches: a direct, incisive vision that speaks volumes about his relationship with music!
Now more at ease, he performs with a brass band and a group called the “Artane Boys Band”. These experiences helped him find a distinctive sound. He is known for his penchant for precise martial rhythms. He likes military cadences: a tendency that would later be found in many U2 songs.
U2, made up of Bono, The Edge, Larry Mullen Jr and Adam Clayton
Everything came to a head when he entered Mount Temple School, where he rubbed shoulders with Paul Hewson (better known today as Bono). In 1976, at the age of 16, Larry lost his mother in a car accident.
Deeply affected by this loss, he immersed himself in music, and in 1976 published an advert at his high school, in which he tried to form a band.
It was at this precise moment that everything changed: Paul Hewson, David Evans and Adam Clayton answered the call and formed what they called “The Larry Mullen Band”.
A name that would change over time to become “U2”.
By dint of their hard work, the group is increasingly performing in Dublin establishments. Larry Mullen Jr combines his skills with those of Bono, The Edge and Adam Clayton to offer a unique sound, driven by particularly strong political and spiritual values.
This stance paid off, enabling them to record their first album, “Boy”, in 1980.
From then on, it was the beginning of success. U2’s reputation extends beyond Ireland’s borders. The singles became veritable rock anthems. All the more reason to celebrate the talent of the 4 Irishmen!
U2 then embarked on a series of successful world tours, giving the band a worldwide reputation. They released a string of successful albums, including “The Joshua Tree” (1987), “Achtung Baby” (1991) and “All That You Can’t Leave Behind” (2000).
Larry Mullen Jr shines in particular with his rhythmic performances on such must-have tracks as “With or Without You”, “Where the Streets Have No Name” and “Beautiful Day”.
As the band’s main drummer, Larry Mullen Junior is renowned for his contribution to some of U2’s most popular songs. His unique technique and stage presence are considered an essential part of the band’s sound.
He is also credited with contributing to the band’s commercial success by producing some of their most famous albums.
In addition to his career with U2, Larry Mullen Junior has worked on individual and collaborative musical projects. His film scores include “Mission Impossible” (1996) and “Gangs of New York” (2002).
He has also collaborated with artists such as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan.
In addition to his musical career, Larry Mullen Junior has a passion for film. So much so that he also tried his hand at acting! He also starred in Man on the Train (2011) and L’Épreuve (A Thousand Times Good Night) (2013), where he co-starred alongside the great Juliette Binoche.
In addition to this film essay, the Irish musician is involved in a variety of other activities. He is the founder of the non-profit organization Music Rising, which provides instruments to musicians affected by natural disasters.
He is also an ardent defender of animal rights and a fervent campaigner for world peace.
Over the course of his career, Larry Mullen Junior has had a considerable impact on popular culture and politics. His work with U2 has inspired generations of fans around the world, and his political activism has earned him international recognition.
He is also recognized as one of the main promoters of the Irish peace movement.
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