03-10-2006 @ 10:15
A single CD containing "The best of U2" is due for release on november 17th.
The collection will contain 16 of the bands best known songs and two new tracks. The new material was recorded during sessions at Londons Abbey Road studios last month, is produced by the pioneering Rick Rubin and consists of a U2/Green Day rendition of The Skids The Saints Are Coming and a brand new U2 track.
The CD will be preceded by the release of the U2 / Green Day collaboration on 30th october - as a digital download and on 3rd November as a 7-inch and cd single. Proceeds from The Saints Are Coming will benefit Music Rising, a charity working with musicians affected by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and the Gulf region.
Both bands performed the song live at the re-opening of the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans last Monday, 25th September. This live version is streamed at www.rhapsody.com/musicrising where it is available for US-only download.
Music Rising was set up by The Edge, producer Bob Ezrin and Gibson Guitars'
Chairman Henry Juskiewicz . The campaign's goal is to help to rebuild the musical heart and culture of the Gulf Region by replacing the musical instruments lost during Hurricane Katrina.
U2 guitarist The Edge: "My visits to New Orleans gave me a firsthand look at the devastation which tragically destroyed the lives of thousands. The area's rich and spirited culture must continue to be restored."
Green Day singer Billie Joe Armstrong; "One year later, people continue to be devastated by Katrina's effects. We hope that by collaborating with U2, we'll remind the public that people of the Gulf Coast are still suffering and still need help to rebuild their lives."
The full track listing and the album title will be announced shortly.
www.U2.com
www.Greenday.com