Over the last three decades the world has become accustomed to the dramatic onstage flair of U2 frontman Bono, who masterfully understands the emotional heft that can be communicated by just the right gesture. That was the case on July 13, 1985 when the group took the stage of Wembley Stadium in London for the African poverty fundraiser Live Aid.

Toward the end of U2’s set, Bono spotted 15-year-old audience member Kal Khalique being crushed against the security barrier and leaped into action. He stepped down from the stage, pulled her out of the crowd and slow-danced with her tenderly as the band kept playing. Beamed to a worldwide audience, the dance embodied the spirit of the event in a subtle but powerful way—one person reaching out to acknowledge the humanity of the other.

By Chris Neal

Photo by Dave Hogan/Getty Images

Category: In Case You Haven't Heard