Becoming U2: Brian O'Connell To Sign Copies At Eason On O'Connell Street Today

With Becoming U2 now in bookshops, gift shops and record stores all over Ireland, fans can meet author Brian O'Connell today. He will be signing copies at Eason on O'Connell Street, Dublin, at 1pm on Friday 13th November.

The signing comes as the book shines a light on a remarkable night in Limerick's Stella Ballroom. Four young Dublin musicians walked away from a talent competition with £500, the chance to record in a real studio – and a very different sense of what might be possible.

Getting People Talking

And already, the story behind that victory is getting people talking.

Features in the Limerick Post and I Love Limerick have explored the city's part in U2's beginnings, while Maddy Fry's interview for fan publication U2 and Us delves into Brian's pursuit of the musicians and eyewitnesses who were there – including members of all seven bands who competed against U2 in the final.

It is a fine piece of detective work, bringing together differing memories, strong opinions and previously unrecorded details of the night. For Adam, Bono, The Edge and Larry, the result would become a milestone in an extraordinary career. For the other musicians, who had arrived with ambitions of their own, there was rather more to discuss about the judges' decision.

"It's always interesting for the writer when you find something and realise: wait, nobody knows that yet," Brian told the Limerick Post.

Dave Fanning, who has been one of U2's closest confidants across the years, knows the feeling.

"I knew this story," he observes. "Then I read this book. I didn't know the story at all! It's great and brilliantly told by Brian O'Connell. Lots of drama… and very funny! Becoming U2 is a must-have for every fan of Irish music."

Every Band Has To Start Somewhere

The surprises are part of the appeal – but so too is the wider story of a young band chancing their arm at a time when Irish music was beginning to change.

"Becoming U2 is an inspiring read for any young musician finding their way," The Cranberries' Noel Hogan says. "And it's a great reminder that every band has to start somewhere. I loved it."

With endorsements also coming from Adam Clayton and U2 by U2 author Neil McCormick, today's signing is a chance to pick up a signed copy of a book that casts new light on a pivotal moment in the band's history – for yourself, or for the music lover in your life.

Brian O'Connell will be signing copies of Becoming U2 at Eason, O'Connell Street, Dublin, today, Friday 13th November, at 1pm. The paperback is available now in bookshops, gift shops and record stores all over Ireland, priced €16.95. The hardback edition, signed by the author, is available exclusively from the Hot Press shop.