JUST ANNOUNCED: U2 has been named the 2025 honorees of the prestigious Woody Guthrie Prize, further solidifying their place not only in music history but also in the realm of social justice and activism. The announcement was made today, confirming that the globally renowned Irish rock band will receive the award on October 21 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, home to the Woody Guthrie Center. Frontman Bono and guitarist The Edge are scheduled to accept the honor on behalf of the group.
The Woody Guthrie Prize is awarded annually to an artist or group that embodies Guthrie’s spirit, using their platform to speak truth to power and advocate for those without a voice. U2’s selection comes as little surprise, given their decades-long commitment to championing human rights, fighting poverty, and shining a light on injustice around the globe. From their early protest anthems like *Sunday Bloody Sunday* to Bono’s relentless activism on issues such as AIDS awareness and global debt relief, U2 has consistently carried forward the ideals Guthrie once sang about.
For Bono and The Edge, the honor is especially meaningful. In a statement, Bono reflected, “Woody Guthrie believed that music could change the world. We’ve always felt the same. To be linked with his name and legacy is humbling beyond words.” The Edge added that Guthrie’s work inspired generations of artists to use their voices not just for entertainment but for transformation.
The ceremony in Tulsa is expected to draw music fans, activists, and historians alike, celebrating not only U2’s unparalleled contributions to rock music but also their unyielding dedication to the fight for justice and equality. As the world faces new challenges, honoring U2 with the Woody Guthrie Prize underscores the enduring power of music to inspire change.
