(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Bono was reportedly giving away R.E.M records at his wifes birthday.

The 50-year-old U2 frontman was celebrating his wife Ali Hewsons 50th birthday on Saturday night, and took the opportunity to promote his friend Michael Stipes band R.E.M. at the celebration.

The couple were joined by 20 guests, including Michael, Bonos bandmate The Edge and model Helena Christensen.

According to sources, Bono took to the streets outside of posh eatery Osteria Morini in New York after the groups meal to see if he could give away some records for his musician friend.

"He was asking people loitering outside if they wanted a CD. Bono was largely ignored, with some looking at him like he was a crazy person until one girl recognized him and snapped up the disc, a source told the New York Post.

Bono married Ali in August of 1982 after their relationship blossomed in 1975. The couple have four children: daughters Jordan and Memphis Eve, and sons Elijah Bob Patricius Guggi and John Abraham. (C) Cover Media