U2 will receive the 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize at Tulsa’s Cain’s Ballroom this October. Bono and The Edge are set to attend the ceremony, which honors artists who use their music to inspire social change. The band also includes bassist Adam Clayton and drummer Larry Mullen Jr.
Cady Shaw, the senior director of the Woody Guthrie Center, said, “U2 embodies the mission of the Woody Guthrie Prize, using music to confront injustice and inspire action.” She added that by giving this award to U2, they celebrate a legacy of music that challenges us and connects people around the world.
The Woody Guthrie Prize highlights musicians who reflect the spirit of Oklahoma’s folk legend. Winners must show a commitment to justice, equality, and human dignity—values that were central to Guthrie’s work. At the event, Guthrie’s granddaughter, Anna Canoni, will speak about U2’s connection to her grandfather’s mission.
Since forming in Dublin in 1976, U2 has infused social messages into their music. For over 45 years, they’ve created songs that address global issues, including the fight against poverty.
The award ceremony will bring U2 back to Cain’s Ballroom on October 21, where they last performed in 1981 while promoting their first album. Their most recent show in Tulsa was at the BOK Center in 2018.
The night will also include an intimate discussion about the band’s impact on society. Special access packages will be available for select donors and members for this fundraising event. For more details, reach out to the Woody Guthrie Center at support@woodyguthriecenter.org.
