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 What is a U2 Fan?
One of the first discussions we had at The Wall (and one we have continued off and on again over the years) is "What is a U2 fan?" There are many ideas of what it is that makes someone a "true" U2 fan. Some believe it's the number of shows you've been to, how "up" you are on the music and news about the band. While others feel it's an attitude. What are your ideas of what makes someone a "True U2 fan?" Here is what you, The Wallers, said:
LittleVoice - I think being a true U2 fan means you have made a spiritual connection with the music.
Éibhleann Róis - I remember during the heart fiasco there were people who said that only true U2 fans should've been in the heart that night. My feeling is that it is not how many shows you have or how many bootlegs, etc. A true fan will understand the music on a deeper level than the average listener. I consider myself a true fan, yet I've only been to a few shows and I don't really collect a lot of the memorabilia. I collect some things pertaining to U2 (I have a lot of Propagandas and all the cds and videos, etc.). I would probably collect more of their stuff because it means something to me if I had the money. I'd also go to more shows if it weren't for the money involved. But to me, the music is the most important aspect of being a U2 fan. U2's music had the ability to form my world views when I was a teenager; it also helped me (as it has so many) through so many rough spots that I wouldn't have wanted to face without it. When you listen to our boys, it's as if they are speaking directly to you; that's how their music is able to relate to anyone's personal situation. And that's being a true U2 fan.
 U2Luv - Some of the members on this board know Modsavage. He gave me permission to reprint some comments he made a while back on Wire. Thanks to Mod for the great post, which perfectly puts into words what I feel a true U2 fan is. One time someone said how some U2 fans are "superfans" setting them apart from the other 99% cause they have been to multiple U2 concerts and did whatever it took to get to see them. I disagree and really hate that statement. It seems rather shallow and misses the point of being a U2 fan. Going to multiple U2 concerts doesn't set you apart from any other U2 fans. It just means you have free time and figured out how to get the money to go. Which is cool but, Time and money doesn't make you a Superfan! I think some forget how lucky we are that we get to see U2 live.
The deal is this, It is all about passion.
Passion for U2 music and how it makes you feel. That passion for U2 exists in millions of U2 fans who have never been to any U2 shows because of whatever reason; time, money, family or politics. You can never ever get me to believe that a person who has deep passion for U2 who hasn't been to a show is any less of a fan than one who has been to multiple shows.
I love U2 for their music and how it makes me feel and the things it makes me do. It is so cool how U2 music can take me away from where I am and make me think.
LIKE BONO SAID
"IT IS ALL ABOUT PURE JOY!"
 UnhitchedWildhorsey - I think a U2 fan would be someone opinionated and who likes to see justice in the world. They would be up on issues of the world and also caring. They may not always be able to affect change right away because of obstacles or limitations, but they would always be ready to lend a hand in what way they can. I think they would be loyal, loving people. (Added later...) Someone who likes a great sermon. (Added later...) Someone who worries about them and cares about them like family. We wouldn't want someone to get too pushy or be mean to them.
Someone not posting insensitive/rude comments about their looks and if they are aging.(of course people age). It is one thing to say they look tired in a picture for instance and another to go on and on about the bags under their eyes--(just an example).
(Added later...) Someone loyal to all the different changes and experiments of the band that is U2. I'm not saying we don't all have our favorites or our preferences; but no matter we respect that there is a need for change and growth. U2 would be great sounding as a perpetual Joshua Tree Band because that was a great album. However they wouldn't be spectacular superstars to this day. They would simply be that great band from the 80's. (Added later...) I think a U2 Fan is someone always seeking to improve themselves. They want to be more understanding, compassionate, tolerant, loving and giving. They want to learn about the world and everyone in it and make a difference in the ways they can. (Added later...) A U2 fan wants to talk about U2, analyze U2 lyrics, post U2 pictures, and come to U2 sites/groups; while they eagerly await the next album and tour. They don't put U2 on a shelf in the absence of fresh material.
JennMullen - I agree with Unhitched, Mod and Éibhleann. I don't think I could say it any better! (Added later...) Someone who backs off and let's the boys have privacy... especially when it comes to their families.
Bonobuzz - I also think that a U2 fan is someone who not only enjoys the music, but gets the meaning behind those powerful lyrics. Their music inspires me & helps me through bad days & good days, I really couldn't live without the music of U2, they rock!
If you would like to see your answers to this timeless question on this page, post what you think here: What IS a U2 Fan?
Also, take a look at our U2 Fan Subculture page which deals with a similar topic and was also written by Wallers.
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