The American music star, who is a member of the Black Eyed Peas, has revealed that he is a huge fan of the U2 lead singer, finding him incredibly motivational.

The traits he particularly admires in the 50-year-old Irish star are his dedication to making the world a better place and his ability to continue to produce great music hits.

“I look at U2 and think, ‘Wow, I hope our group can stay together that long and still make brilliant music,’” Will.i.am told British newspaper The Sun. “And just being around Bono and the guys is inspiring. It’s like how a government should be. Bono for president of the world, I say.”

Will.i.am revealed that he would like nothing better than to produce U2’s next album, at the same time as divulging that he has been suffering from an ear problem called tinnitus.

The issue means that Will experiences a constant ringing in his ears all the time, and music is the only thing that makes it feel better.

“I don’t know what silence sounds like any more. Music is the only thing which eases my pain,” he said. “I can’t be still. Work calms me down. I can’t be quiet as that’s when I notice the ringing in my ears. There’s always a beep there every day, all day. Like now. I don’t know exactly how long I’ve had this but it’s gradually got worse.”