Claim: U2 is a rock band.

Paul David Hewson -LRB- born 10 May 1960 -RRB- , known by his stage name Bono -LRB- -LSB- ˈbɒnoʊ -RSB- -RRB- , is an Irish singer-songwriter , musician , venture capitalist , businessman , and philanthropist . He is best known as the lead vocalist and primary lyricist of rock band U2 .   Bono was born and raised in Dublin , Ireland . He attended Mount Temple Comprehensive School where he met his future wife , Alison Stewart , as well as schoolmates with whom he founded U2 in 1976 . Bono soon established himself as a passionate frontman for the band through his expressive vocal style and grandiose gestures and songwriting . His lyrics are known for their social and political themes , and for their religious imagery inspired by his Christian beliefs . During U2 's early years , Bono 's lyrics contributed to the group 's rebellious and spiritual tone . As the band matured , his lyrics became inspired more by personal experiences shared with the other members . As a member of U2 , Bono has received 22 Grammy Awards and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame .   Bono is widely known for his activism for social justice causes , both through U2 and as an individual . He is particularly active in campaigning for Africa , for which he co-founded DATA , EDUN , the ONE Campaign , and Product Red . In pursuit of these causes , he has participated in benefit concerts and met with influential politicians . Bono has been praised for his philanthropic efforts ; he was granted an honorary knighthood by Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom for `` his services to the music industry and for his humanitarian work '' , and has been made a Commandeur of the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres -LRB- Order of Arts and Letters -RRB- . In 2005 , Bono was named one of the Time Persons of the Year .   Outside of the band , he has recorded with numerous artists . He has collaborated with U2 bandmate the Edge on several projects , including : songs for Roy Orbison and Tina Turner ; the soundtracks to the musical Spider-Man : Turn Off the Dark and a London stage adaptation of A Clockwork Orange ; and the refurbishment of the Clarence Hotel in Dublin . He is Managing Director and a Managing Partner of the private equity firm Elevation Partners , which has invested in several companies .