‘Awesome’ Was The Word of the Day

U2 rocked the Bronx this morning as they played Fordham University for an exclusive set that aired on Good Morning America.

With the historic Keating Hall as the backdrop, Bono, The Edge, Larry Mullen Jr., and Adam Clayton, opened with their new single, “Get On Your Boots” from their newly released album, No Line on the Horizon.

The band played six songs for an elated audience.

Fordham Security was on their game at several checkpoints, aware that student I.Ds had become a hot ticket. Students, many who broke night in order to get the best “seats” in the house, enjoyed the show.

“It was worth waiting outside since 5 a.m.,” said Fordham College at Lincoln Center sophomore Jenny Hirsch. “They were great!”

The front crowd was student-heavy, but the back was much less homogenous. Professors, deans, administrators, alumni and even the members of the local firehouse lingered around the fringes to watch, many on tiptoes. Some hard-core U2ers balanced precariously on gates protecting the giant speakers, weathering the thump of the heavy base to get a glimpse of Bono’s theatrics.

“They were pretty awesome,” said Karen Casingal-Acampado, assistant director for the Office of Career Services. “I’m exhausted, though!”

And Professor Mark “Notorious Ph.D.” Naison was seen watching the concert from the roof of Dealy Hall with a GMA cameraman and Fordham photographer. Yes, folks. He was dancing.

“I have loved U2 ever since they first hit the airwaves as a rock band with a conscience in the mid 80's! What a day! What a moment! I have been here for nearly forty years and this is hands down the best musical event I have ever seen at Fordham, and up there with the greatest musical moments in my entire life,” Naison said.

Blogs and the MSM are abuzz this afternoon with news and photos from the show, including Brooklyn Vegan, Rolling Stone and America magazine.

–Janet Sassi and Gina Vergel