Irish rock band U2 has been named the recipient of the 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize, an esteemed annual award presented by the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This recognition celebrates artists who embody Woody Guthrie's commitment to social consciousness and his enduring musical legacy. The award ceremony is scheduled for October 21, 2025, at the historic Cain's Ballroom in Tulsa.
Formed in Dublin in 1976, U2 has built a nearly five-decade career marked by music deeply intertwined with activism. The band, comprising Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr., has consistently used its platform to raise awareness on critical global issues, including poverty, war, and human rights. Their discography features iconic songs such as "Pride (In the Name of Love)," a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and anthems like "One" and "Walk On," which promote unity and resilience. This dedication to social justice has previously earned them accolades, including the Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience Award.
Bono and The Edge are scheduled to accept the award on behalf of the band. Their attendance marks a return to Cain's Ballroom, a venue where U2 first performed in 1981 during their "The Boy" tour. This homecoming to the iconic Tulsa venue, known for its rich history in American music, adds a significant layer to the occasion. Cain's Ballroom has hosted legendary artists across various genres and is a landmark in the development of Western swing music.
The Woody Guthrie Prize aligns with U2's mission, as stated by Cady Shaw, senior director of the Woody Guthrie Center: "U2 embodies the mission of the Woody Guthrie Prize, using music to confront injustice and inspire action." Shaw further noted, "By presenting the 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize to U2, we honor a legacy of music that continues to challenge who we are and connect us the world over." U2 joins a distinguished roster of past recipients, including folk legends Pete Seeger and Joan Baez, and rock icons Bruce Springsteen and Tom Morello.
The Woody Guthrie Center, located in Tulsa's Arts District, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Woody Guthrie's life and work, serving as a hub for inspiration and education on his advocacy for social justice. The center houses Guthrie's extensive archives, offering insights into his profound impact on American history and culture. The selection of U2 highlights the band's sustained influence as a force for positive change, demonstrating how artistic expression can serve as a powerful catalyst for societal progress.