Birthday 2U

SIMON HEWSON SAYS BEING RELATED TO BONO BRINGS PROBLEMS

The Church is going to be a focal point after both shows. One of my best friends is actually in a U2 tribute band. He’s based in Hollywood.

“He’s the “Hollywood Bono” in Hollywood U2, which is one of the bigger tribute bands in the States. Any time I go out to LA, I stay with him.”

One of Simon’s big dreams is to share a platform with the band.

He said: “One of the things still on my bucket list is I still haven’t got up on stage with him.

“I’m always a little jealous when people I know get to go up.

“My buddy, who’s the Hollywood Bono, got pulled up on stage at a show. He got to sing a duet with band. They did Sweetest Thing. Bono and The Edge said he actually sung the song better than Bono.”

RESPECTFUL

It’s not always a bed of roses being related to one of the biggest superstars on the planet.

Simon added: “Probably 95% of the time it works out OK. But I’ve had my share of bad experiences with fans. I’ve had a few stalker fans.

“There was one particular lady when I lived in Seattle and she was pushy and persistent. It got to the point where she started following my cousin around while he was in Seattle to try and get pictures with them.

“Then finally she convinced them she knew me. And he gave her a ticket to a show.

“I don’t mind an enthusiastic fan. I appreciate them. But there’s a certain line you don’t cross – and she crossed it. I had to cut off communication with her. But that was one of the few. In general, most of them are very respectful and happy. And we share the same love of a great band and great guys. “I’m proud of being a Hewson. I’m proud of who I’m related to. I love going to shows. I love meeting my U2 friends. Everybody loves U2 for different reasons, but the common denominator is the music.” news@irishmirror.ie