The effects of Larry Mullen Jr.’s dyscalculia diagnosis on his drumming and his methods for dealing with the disorder are discussed in this interview.
- For Mullen, counting is like attempting to conquer Mount Everest.
- The diagnosis explains the pain he was experiencing throughout his performances.
Counting has always been a problem for U2 drummer Larry Mullen Jr. Dyscalculia, a learning condition that impairs comprehension of numbers and arithmetic, was just diagnosed with him at the age of 63.
He spoke about his struggles with numbers in a December 12 interview with Times Radio, saying that arithmetic has always been a struggle for him.
The strain of counting bars, which Mullen compared to climbing Everest, causes him to display painful looks on stage, as he said.
As a co-occurring disorder with dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety, dyscalculia affects 3% to 7% of the general population.
Notable artists who have talked about dyscalculia include Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Robbie Williams, and Cher. Among Ellis-Bextor’s advocacy roles is that of Dyscalculia Network ambassador for the United Kingdom.
Although dyscalculia may have a hereditary component, its exact origin is still a mystery. Mullen’s son’s dyslexia diagnosis served as the inspiration for his participation in the documentary “Left Behind,” which examines the difficulties associated with dyslexia in the classroom.
In this documentary, we see five moms’ efforts to establish a public school in NYC for students with dyslexia.
Mullen said that, seeing the documentary through his son’s eyes, the process of composing the music for it was very intimate and emotional.
It all started in Dublin for Mullen, who would go on to form U2 with Bono, The Edge, and Adam Clayton. The band’s 1980 first album was the result of a record contract and rapid ascent to fame.
In October, “Left Behind” had its world debut at the Woodstock Film Festival. On January 17, 2025, it will launch in select cinemas.
Mullen’s experience with dyscalculia demonstrates his perseverance and commitment to his music career.
