Eagles of Death Metal was performing on stage at the Bataclan during the Paris attacks, when gunmen opened fire on the crowd. The band escaped the harrowing attack, but 89 people were killed that night at the venue. Now, for the first time since the attacks, the band has visited the memorial site at the Bataclan and appeared on stage with U2 in Paris.

The members of Eagles of Death Metal stopped by the memorial in front of the Bataclan, dropping off flowers and reflecting on the memorial. They were visibly moved by the sight of the memorial (as well as their own memories of that night, undoubtedly). Although the Bataclan has not reopened yet, Eagles of Death Metal co-founder Jesse Hughes has said that he hopes the band can play at the venue once it reopens.

Because the Bataclan is still closed, the band instead appeared on stage with U2 in a surprise performance. U2 was finishing up the set of shows that were originally cancelled due to the Paris attacks. So it was only fitting that the two bands unite for a song. According to the Associated Press, "Just before the band emerged Monday night...Bono said there was ‘nothing left except to introduce you to some people whose lives will forever be a part of this city of Paris. These are our brothers. Our fellow troubadours. They were robbed of their stage three weeks ago, and we would like to offer them ours tonight. Would you welcome the Eagles of Death Metal!’”

The band then played "People Have the Power" by Patti Smith. After the performance, the lead singer proclaimed, “We love you too, so much for giving us this opportunity. I look around and what do I see, nos amis, our friends. I f*cking love you guys so hard, and I will never stop rocking and rolling.”

After such tragedy, it's incredibly heartening to see such a brave show of defiance against terror in such an emotional way. You can check out the videos of Eagles of Death Metal visiting the Bataclan memorial, as well as their performance with U2, in the videos below.

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