Dik Evans played guitar in U2’s early predecessor before leaving the group in 1978.
Dik Evans, born Richard G. Evans, was the brother of David Evans, who later became known as The Edge. He joined the school band formed around Larry Mullen Jr. and played guitar during the group’s earliest stages, when it was called Feedback and later The Hype.
Evans left in March 1978, shortly before the band settled on the name U2 and began its long-term four-member career. After departing, he became a member of the Virgin Prunes, another influential Dublin band connected to the city’s post-punk scene.
Dik Evans is often confused with The Edge because they are brothers and both played guitar in the formative group. However, The Edge remained with U2, while Dik Evans left before the lineup associated with U2’s major recordings was established.