29-09-2006 @ 10:53
U2 and Green Day have recorded a new version of The Skids track 'TheSaints Are Coming' in aid of Music Rising, a charity working withmusicians affected by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and the Gulfregion.
The bands performed the song together at the re-opening of the NewOrleans Superdome on Monday 25th September. This live version isstreamed at http://www.rhapsody.com
A studio version of 'The Saints Are Coming', produced by Rick Rubin andrecorded in London's Abbey Road studio, will be available to downloadfrom 30th October, with a physical release on 7" and CD following on6th November.
All proceeds from the release will go directly to Music Rising, thecharity set up by The Edge, producer Bob Ezrin and Gibson Guitars. Thecampaign's goal is to rebuild the musical heart and culture of the GulfRegion by replacing the musical instruments lost during HurricaneKatrina.
U2 guitarist The Edge: "My visits to New Orleans gave me a firsthandlook at the devastation which tragically destroyed the lives ofthousands. The area's rich and spirited culture must continue to berestored. When the idea of playing at the Superdome re-opening firstcame up I immediately thought of 'The Saints Are Coming'. It could havebeen written for this occasion. The lyric fits so well it's almosteerie."
Green Day singer Billie Joe Armstrong; "One year later, people continueto be devastated by Katrina's effects. We hope that by collaboratingwith U2, we'll remind the public that people of the Gulf Coast arestill suffering and still need help to rebuild their lives."