U2 Rewrites 'Beautiful Day' Lyrics for Glen Hansard's Funeral

Irish rock band U2 shared a significantly rewritten version of their iconic 2000 hit song 'Beautiful Day' during the funeral service for acclaimed Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard. The band performed the altered lyrics, which were penned by Hansard himself, at the service held on December 15, 2023, at the Church of the Transfiguration in Howth, County Dublin. The original lyrics of 'Beautiful Day' celebrate finding beauty and optimism in everyday life, famously including the lines, "See the world in green and blue / And see yourself in everything you do." However, the version performed at Hansard's funeral offered a starkly different, more introspective, and darkly humorous perspective, reflecting on life's challenges and the inevitability of death. The rewritten lyrics, as reported, included lines such as, "You left a hangover from hell, of this there is no doubt / But as you wake up in heaven, all the angels will shout." This poignant adaptation transforms the anthem of hope into a personal reflection on mortality and legacy, delivered by Hansard's close friends and collaborators. Glen Hansard, a Grammy-winning musician known for his work with The Frames and as a solo artist, as well as his Oscar-winning song 'Falling Slowly' from the film 'Once,' passed away at the age of 53. The decision to perform a rewritten version of 'Beautiful Day' underscores the deep personal connection between Hansard and U2, particularly Bono, who is a longtime friend and advocate for many Irish artists. The band's participation in the funeral service served as a tribute to Hansard's significant contributions to music and his profound impact on the Irish and international music scene. The original 'Beautiful Day' was a global success for U2, topping charts in numerous countries and earning them Grammy Awards. Its transformation into a personal elegy highlights the band's respect for Hansard and their willingness to engage with his artistic vision even in the context of his passing. The funeral service was attended by a large number of musicians, actors, and public figures from Ireland, reflecting Hansard's broad influence and popularity. The sharing of these unique lyrics provides a powerful glimpse into Hansard's own thoughts on life and death, delivered through the voice of one of his most famous contemporaries.