Sting reopens Bataclan with tributes to Bowie, Prince, Cohen

A day shy of the anniversary of the Paris attacks, Sting reopened Paris' Bataclan theatre with a minute of silence for the 90 killed.

Coming on stage to a subdued crowd, the British rocker began with remarks honouring the victims that were killed when terrorists stormed the theater last November 13.

We've got two important things to do tonight,” he said in French. “First, to remember and honor those who lost their lives in the attacks a year ago and to celebrate the life and the music of this historic venue.”

We shall not forget them,” he said before launching into 1988's “Fragile”, whose lyrics read: “Nothing comes from violence and nothing ever could”.

He then began a list of those musicians lost his year. “David Bowie, Prince, Glenn Frey, Lemmy...” he said before the crowd shouted “Leonard Cohen!”

And Leonard,” he added. “This is for them.” He dedicated “Fifty Thousand" from his new album “57th & 9th” to the late musicians.

His “Inshallah” was next, which might have proved more controversial. He explained the Arabic word as a “word of hope,” however, noting the current migrant crisis that is plaguing Europe.

He dedicated the last song, “Empty Chair”, to journalist Jim Foley and HBO doc made about him, “Jim: The James Foley Story”. He projected a photo of Foley behind the stage as he pulled out his acoustic guitar for an emotional rendition.

Source: Billboard