Bono: Paris terror attacks 'direct hit on music'

Rocker calls attack 'deeply disturbing'

(Tristan Fewings/Getty Images)

PARIS – Rocker Bono expressed support for the band Eagles of Death Metal and its fans following the terror attacks in Paris, which he called "the first direct hit on music" in the war on terror.

Eagles of Death Metal was performing at a theater in Paris that was one of the venues targeted by terrorists Friday, killing more than 120 people and injuring hundreds more.

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"If you think about it, the majority of victims last night are music fans," USA Today reported Bono said in a Saturday phone interview with Irish radio host Dave Fanning. "This is the first direct hit on music that we've had in this so-called War on Terror. And it's very upsetting. These are our people. ... The cold-blooded effect of this slaughter is deeply disturbing and that's what I can't get out of my head."

The newspaper said French authorities canceled U2's two weekend concerts while France mourns the victims of the massacre, for which ISIS has claimed responsibility.

Entertainment Weekly Bono said he understands the need to call off the concerts.

"This could be me at a show, you at a show," he told Fanning. "It's a very recognizable situation. All our thoughts are with the Eagles of Death Metal fans.

"It's up to the French authorities to decide when we can go back. I think music is very important and that U2 has a role to play. I can't wait until we get back to Paris."