2.27.01 - Brit Awards 2001

Last but not least it's U2's turn.

Noel Gallagher has paid passionate tribute to U2, before presenting the band with the Outstanding Contribution award, at the close of The Brits.

Gallagher said from the stage: "This award is for a band who've apparently had a great impact on music. They've certainly had great impact on my record collection!"

U2 made a lengthy thank you speech, notably praising the Brits for awarding it to "an Irish band".

Bono praise The Beatles, although he added they contained three Irishmen. Similar tribute was given to Oasis, with Bono adding "they've got two Irishmen in their band!" Noel Gallagher was seen to raise a celebratory fist at the end.

The band then ripped through a storming, 4-song set, bringing the Brits 2001 to a monumental climax.

Beginning with 'One' which was dedicated to Craig David, the band then unleashed a huge 'Beautiful Day'. 'It was followed by 'Until The End Of The World", Bono making a trademark, if somewhat confused venture into the crowd, eventually reappearing as the song closed.

'Mysterious Ways' brought the event to an end, a fitting climax for a band and event that shows no signs of relinquishing their massive influence on the music of Great Britain.

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