U2 will be special guests at BBC Radio on Friday 27 February when listeners can enjoy access to one of the world’s greatest rock bands – including a special Live Lounge session on BBC Radio 1.

The band will be performing three tracks for a Radio 1 Live Lounge session in Jo Whiley’s daytime show from 10.00am.

Later that day on BBC Radio 2, Chris Evans will play host to U2 on his drivetime show at 5.00pm, interviewing all four members of U2 about the secrets of their success, from their formation in Dublin in 1976, to nine number one albums in the UK and 22 Grammy Awards.

A number of lucky Radio 1 listeners will be able to watch the band live at the BBC Radio Theatre – find out how to by listening to Jo’s show from Monday 23 February.

U2’s Live Lounge session co-incides with Jo Whiley’s first week back at Radio 1 after five months maternity leave.

Jo says: “Time has flown and I’m very excited about getting back to my show and being reunited with my radio family – it’s always a bit nerve-racking going back after having a baby but having U2, one of the world’s biggest bands, playing in the Live Lounge and debuting new songs from their very fine latest album is especially thrilling.”

Chris Evans says: “When it comes to rock ‘n’ roll it doesn’t get any bigger than U2, and when the biggest are getting better, backed up by the sheer brilliance of their new album, it will only be a pure joy to have them as part of our little radio show for one night only.”

Jo Whiley, Radio 1, weekdays, 10.00am-12.45pm from Monday 23 February.

Chris Evans, Radio 2, weekdays, 5.00-7.00pm