Bono was a “complete loss of voice” five songs into the show

U2 were five songs into their second Berlin show of their eXPERIENCE + iNNOCENCE Tour last night (Sat, Sept 1st) when they were forced to cancel the remainder of the concert. Bono lost his voice, even speaking through “Beautiful Day” before apologizing to the crowd.

“I must promise you before we left the dressing room, I was ready to sing for you, so something’s happened and I think we can’t go on. It’s not right for you. I’m sure this is not a big problem but I’m gonna have to do something.”

Bono suggested they take a short break, but never returned to the stage and the show was abruptly canceled.

“We’re so sorry for tonight’s cancellation. Bono was in great form and great voice prior to the show and we were all looking forward to the second night in Berlin, but after a few songs, he suffered a complete loss of voice,” the band says in a statement on their website.

“We don’t know what has happened and we’re taking medical advice.

“As always, we appreciate our audience’s understanding and all our fans’ support in Berlin and those who travelled from afar. We will update you very soon.”

Before “Beautiful Day,” Bono had commented on the Mercedes Benz Arena’s policy that allows smoking in some parts of the arena, the same place they played the previous evening. “This is like being in a giant cigar. I’ve lost my voice and I don’t know what to do. I was singing like a bird about ten minutes ago. I don’t know what to do. I’m sure it will pass.”

Bono confirmed later Sunday (Sept 2nd) that the tour will continue and the Berlin show will be rescheduled for November 13th.

“I’ve seen a great doctor and with his care I’ll be back to full voice for the rest of the tour,” he states with a thank you note he made for fans. “So happy and relieved that anything serious has been ruled out. My relief is tempered by the knowledge that the Berlin audience were so inconvenienced. There was an amazing atmosphere in the house, it was going to be one of those unforgettable nights but not for this reason… We can’t wait to get back there on November 13th.”

Live Nation is expected to give more details tomorrow about the rescheduled Berlin show. U2 is next set to perform Tuesday, September 4th in Cologne, Germany.