Posted on: September 29, 2023, 09:43h. 

Last updated on: September 29, 2023, 09:44h.

U2 Releases New Single and Video, “Atomic City,” Ahead of Las Vegas Residency

U2 surprised fans late Thursday night with the release of their new single and video, “Atomic City,” just one day before their highly-anticipated Las Vegas residency, “U2: UV Achtung Baby,” begins at the MSG Sphere at the Venetian. This marks U2’s first release since 1997 and the video was shot on a bustling Fremont Street and in the empty Sphere, captivated by the beauty and allure of Las Vegas.

Lead singer Bono described the song as a tribute to Blondie, Giorgio Moroder, the Clash, ’70s punk, and the city of Las Vegas. The chorus of “Atomic City” pays homage to Blondie’s hit song from 1980, “Call Me,” instantly creating a nostalgic and energetic feel.

The video showcases U2’s arrival at the shoot on a flatbed truck, reminiscent of a promotional stunt by the Rolling Stones in 1975, as they move between shooting locations behind the 3rd Street stage and in front of the Plaza Hotel and Casino.

Las Vegas, famously known as Atomic City in the ’50s and early ’60s, has a rich history tied to the many atomic bomb tests conducted at the Nevada Test Site. “Atomic City” celebrates this history while also highlighting the entertainment capital’s reputation as a hub for both washed-up stars and extraterrestrial encounters.

Larry Mullen’s Presence in the Video

The “Atomic City” video prominently features founding drummer Larry Mullen, Jr., who is currently recovering from surgery for longstanding neck and elbow issues and, therefore, will not join the band for the Sphere dates. Despite his health concerns, Mullen joined the shooting the night before the video to ensure he could still play, delivering an impressive performance.

During the residency, Mullen will be replaced by Bram van den Berg, a skilled and relatively unknown drummer from The Netherlands.

A Tribute to Las Vegas

Choosing the Plaza Hotel as a filming location holds significance for U2, as it signifies a return to the city that played a crucial role in their rise to fame. The iconic 1987 music video for “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” was shot on a pre-canopied Fremont Street, where the band playfully imitated Elvis and surprised unsuspecting tourists.