Tulsa, October 27, 2025
U2’s Bono and The Edge were awarded the 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize at Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa for their impact on socially conscious music. The ceremony featured intimate acoustic performances of their classic hits, celebrating both the duo’s commitment to social issues and the legacy of folk pioneer Woody Guthrie. The event highlighted musical traditions in Oklahoma and the enduring relevance of protest songs.
Tulsa – U2 legends Bono and The Edge were honored with the 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize at Cain’s Ballroom, a historic venue near Oklahoma City. The duo received the award for their contributions to socially conscious music, marking a significant moment in Oklahoma’s music history. During the event, they performed acoustic sets of classic songs, drawing a full house of fans who celebrated the legacy of folk music pioneer Woody Guthrie.
The ceremony highlighted the duo’s long-standing commitment to addressing social issues through their music. Bono and The Edge accepted the prize in recognition of their work, which aligns with Guthrie’s tradition of using songs to advocate for justice and equality. The event featured intimate performances, including hits like “With or Without You,” captivating the audience in the iconic Cain’s Ballroom.
Attendees packed the venue, creating an energetic atmosphere that paid tribute to Guthrie’s influence on American folk music. This gathering not only celebrated the recipients but also underscored the enduring relevance of protest songs in contemporary culture. The night was described as a milestone for Oklahoma’s music scene, blending past and present musical traditions.
Event Details
The 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize ceremony took place recently at Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa. Bono and The Edge, known for their roles in the band U2, were the recipients of this prestigious award. The prize recognizes individuals whose music promotes social awareness, much like Guthrie did during his career. The duo’s performance included acoustic renditions of their popular tracks, engaging fans and emphasizing the themes of unity and activism.
Fans from across the region filled the historic ballroom, which has a rich history in Oklahoma’s music culture. The event’s timing added to its significance, occurring amidst a series of local music activities in the area. While the ceremony focused on Bono and The Edge, it also served as a broader nod to Guthrie’s legacy, reminding attendees of his impact on folk and protest music.
Background on the Award and Recipients
The Woody Guthrie Prize is an annual award that honors artists who embody the spirit of Woody Guthrie, a key figure in American folk music known for his songs about social and economic issues. Guthrie, born in Oklahoma, used his music to highlight the struggles of the working class and became a symbol of resilience during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl era.
Bono and The Edge have built a career spanning decades, with U2’s music often addressing global concerns such as poverty, human rights, and peace. Their selection for the 2025 prize reflects their ongoing efforts in these areas, paralleling Guthrie’s approach. This event at Cain’s Ballroom, a venue with ties to Oklahoma’s musical roots, provided a fitting backdrop for such an honor.
The ceremony also highlighted the connection between Guthrie’s Oklahoma origins and the state’s vibrant music community. While Guthrie’s legacy spans nationwide influence, this particular event was centered in Tulsa, reinforcing local pride in his contributions. The night demonstrated how music continues to serve as a powerful tool for social change, drawing parallels between past and present artists.
Further details about the event included the duo’s acoustic sets, which featured a selection of their classics adapted for a more intimate setting. This approach allowed fans to experience the songs in a fresh way, emphasizing the emotional depth of the lyrics. The overall atmosphere was one of celebration, fostering a sense of community among attendees.
In the context of recent Oklahoma events, this prize ceremony stood out as a cultural highlight. It showcased how music events in the region continue to thrive, with Cain’s Ballroom serving as a hub for such gatherings. The event’s success underscored the importance of preserving musical heritage while recognizing modern contributions.
The recognition of Bono and The Edge adds to a growing list of honorees for the Woody Guthrie Prize, which has previously celebrated various artists for their socially conscious work. This year’s event in Tulsa further solidified the award’s role in promoting meaningful music, encouraging ongoing dialogue about social issues through artistic expression.
Broader Implications
Events like this one at Cain’s Ballroom play a role in Oklahoma’s cultural landscape, connecting local history with global influences. By honoring artists like Bono and The Edge, the prize keeps Guthrie’s legacy alive, inspiring new generations to use music as a force for good. The ceremony’s focus on socially conscious themes resonates with ongoing discussions in communities across the state.
Overall, the 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize event was a testament to the power of music in addressing societal challenges. It brought together fans, performers, and history in a memorable night, reinforcing the values that Guthrie championed throughout his life.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1: Who received the 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize?
A1: U2 legends Bono and The Edge received the 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize at Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa, near Oklahoma City. - Q2: What was the reason for the award?
A2: The duo accepted the honor for their socially conscious music. - Q3: What did Bono and The Edge do at the event?
A3: Bono and The Edge performed acoustic sets of classics like ‘With or Without You’. - Q4: Where was the event held?
A4: The event was held at Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa, near Oklahoma City. - Q5: What was the atmosphere like?
A5: Fans filled the historic venue, celebrating Guthrie’s legacy of folk protest songs.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Recipients | Bono and The Edge |
| Award | 2025 Woody Guthrie Prize |
| Location | Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa, near Oklahoma City |
| Performances | Acoustic sets of classics like ‘With or Without You’ |
| Theme | Socially conscious music and Guthrie’s legacy of folk protest songs |
| Attendance | Fans filled the historic venue |
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U2’s Bono and The Edge Honor Woody Guthrie in Tulsa
