For one man karaoke wasn’t enough so he set up a U2 tribute band
U2, one of the most famous bands in the world, need no introduction. But who can say that they’ve heard of Paul Collyer?
The 37-year-old Briton is the lead singer of tribute band U2:UK, which is one of only a handful of tribute bands worldwide to enjoy the recognition of their namesake, even playing at U2’s private party bash in Belgium earlier this year. The band was also one of two tribute bands that played in Cyprus last weekend.
“I don’t call myself Bono, it’s not my style, I just love singing their songs – it’s no ego trip. People in the audience always shout out Bono though,” Collyer said.
But why pretend to be someone else? “When I first saw U2 on the Kenny Everett show performing one New Year’s Day, I thought I looked a little like Bono. I became a big U2 fan, but not for that reason of course. At that time I never really sang or had aspirations to be in a band. I was only 16 then. I only started to sing karaoke when I was 26, but realised I could do a decent job and I always sang U2 and Bon Jovi songs. I appeared on the TV show Stars in their Eyes in 2002 and afterwards decided to start a U2 tribute band. I put an add in the local paper and hey presto two guys who had tried to get a U2 tribute band together about 18 months beforehand responded. Purely for the love of singing U2 stuff. I wouldn’t be a tribute to anyone else.”
Collyer added, “we have played at U2’s after-show party which was a fantastic experience, it was so surreal to be hearing U2 play while we were backstage. The band has been together for three-and-a half years during which time we’ve played gigs from small bars to big arenas and theatres. Up until now, we have performed between 400-450 gigs and I’ve met Bono himself six times. I play the guitar, but like Bono, am not too hot at it really, even though I think it’s a great instrument to play. I write songs too and vocals and guitar go hand in hand.”
He said that even though the band is a full-time job, “there’s just no comparison to what I get paid with Bono. But if anyone wants to take a hat round for a collection they’re more than welcome! I’ve always been an entertainer though, either as a magician or as a singer with Butlins and now of course with U2:UK.”
So how well received were they in Cyprus? “the crowd were up for a great night so we played old and new U2 tracks and kept it all up tempo!”
Seven Questions
What car do you drive?
I have a big family so I have a Renault Espace
Describe your perfect weekend
A family day out at maybe a theme park, then a party at home till the early hours
What is your greatest fear?
Being old and having regrets about the things I should have done
What is your earliest memory?
I can’t specify one in particular
Assuming you believe in reincarnation, who or what would you come back as?
Bono, he has it all. He’s in the biggest kick ass rock band in the world and he is making a difference in world issues too. I’m full of admiration for the man.
What did you have for breakfast?
Not had any breakfast yet today but Cheerio’s are definitely in vogue at the moment. Hmm scrummy!!!
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A very expensive shirt that I’ve not worn yet
