David Howell Evans, known by his stage name The Edge, was born on August 8, 1961, in Barking, Essex, England, to Welsh parents Garvin and Gwenda Evans. He moved to Dublin, Ireland, at a young age, where he attended Mount Temple Comprehensive School. It was there that he met his future U2 bandmates Bono, Larry Mullen Jr., and Adam Clayton. The band, initially called Feedback and later The Hype, eventually settled on the name U2.

The Edge is renowned for his innovative guitar style, characterized by the use of delay effects and atmospheric sounds, which became a defining element of U2's music. His contributions were pivotal in the band's rise to fame, with landmark albums such as "The Joshua Tree" (1987) and "Achtung Baby" (1991). U2's music often explores themes of faith and spirituality, reflecting The Edge's upbringing.

Beyond his work with U2, The Edge has engaged in various musical collaborations and philanthropic efforts. He co-founded Music Rising, a charity supporting musicians affected by Hurricane Katrina, and has worked on soundtracks for films and stage productions. As a member of U2, he has won 22 Grammy Awards and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

In his personal life, The Edge was married to Aislinn O'Sullivan from 1983 until their divorce in 1996, and they have three daughters. He married Morleigh Steinberg in 2002, with whom he has two children.