U2 Unveils New Song ‘Atomic City’ During Surprise Las Vegas Performance — Watch
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U2 fans in Las Vegas were treated to an unexpected and electrifying surprise when the legendary Irish rock band delivered a pop-up performance right on Fremont Street. Not only did they play their iconic hits, but they also unveiled their brand new song, “Atomic City.”
The name “Atomic City” is a nod to the 1950s, when Las Vegas earned this nickname due to its close proximity to a site where the U.S. government conducted nuclear tests, situated roughly 65 miles northwest of Fremont Street.
During this impromptu concert, Bono, U2’s charismatic frontman, introduced “Atomic City” as “a rock ‘n’ roll 45 in the tradition of ’70s post-punk, Blondie, the Clash, some ’70s punk … We’ll take it from everywhere.”
What made this performance even more remarkable was that it also doubled as a music video shoot. U2 performed “Atomic City” several times, ensuring that the cameras captured every angle. Their passionate fans, who had gathered for the surprise show, embraced the band’s energy with enthusiasm.
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One notable highlight was the presence of Larry Mullen Jr., U2’s drummer, who is currently recuperating from back surgery.
Unfortunately, Larry won’t be able to join U2 when they kick off their eagerly anticipated Achtung Baby Las Vegas residency at the MSG Sphere later this month.
Bono expressed his gratitude for Larry’s presence in front of the crowd, saying:
“The four of us recorded [‘Atomic City’]. Sadly, Larry Mullen Jr. won’t be with us at the Sphere. He doesn’t listen to doctor’s orders. Neither do many of us. But he is here tonight … Give it up for Larry Mullen Jr.!”
U2’s return to Las Vegas was a special moment for both the band and their fans.
It brought back memories of their iconic music video for “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” which they filmed on the very same Fremont Street years ago that still resonates with fans today.
“I only had two lights, really, but Las Vegas has the biggest lighting budget in the entire world,” director Barry Devlin recalled. “It was so low-tech… but that meant we could get in right close [on the band].”
Back then, they had limited resources but made the most of Las Vegas’s dazzling lights to create a memorable video
