What is the real name of U2 guitarist The Edge?

The real name of U2 guitarist The Edge is David Howell Evans. He was born on 8 August 1961 in Barking, Essex, England, to Welsh parents, and moved with his family to Dublin when he was a young child. He was raised in Ireland and retained British citizenship for most of his life.

Evans joined the group that became U2 after answering drummer Larry Mullen Jr.'s 1976 school notice seeking musicians. His brother Richard, known as Dik, was also briefly involved before leaving the developing band. Paul Hewson, later known as Bono, and Adam Clayton joined the same early lineup.

The nickname “The Edge” came from Bono's circle of friends, the Lypton Village surrealist group. Its exact origin is disputed: the name may refer to Evans's angular features, his guitar playing, or his tendency to remain somewhat detached. The Edge is best known as U2's guitarist, but he also plays keyboards, sings backing vocals, and has received production credits. A common mix-up is confusing his birth name with the stage names of Bono or Adam Clayton.