U2 is an Irish rock band that was formed in 1976. The band consists of Bono (lead vocals), The Edge (guitar, keyboards, backing vocals), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums, percussion). U2 is known for their powerful and anthemic sound, with lyrics that often explore themes of social and political issues. The band has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including “The Joshua Tree,” “Achtung Baby,” and “Songs of Experience,” and has won countless awards throughout their career, including 22 Grammy Awards.
U2 is also recognized for their live performances, which are known for their grand and theatrical nature, as well as their use of technology and multimedia. They have performed in stadiums and arenas around the world and are regarded as one of the most successful live acts in history.
In addition to their music, U2 is also known for their activism and philanthropy, including their involvement in various social causes, such as combating poverty, promoting human rights, and supporting AIDS research.
Overall, U2 is one of the most successful and influential rock bands of all time, with their music and activism making a significant impact on popular culture and society as a whole. Their legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of music fans and artists around the world.
10. “With Or Without You”
“With or Without You” is a song by U2 from their album “The Joshua Tree,” released in 1987. The song features a haunting and atmospheric sound, with The Edge’s iconic guitar riff and Bono’s powerful vocals. The lyrics of the song explore the theme of love and attachment, with Bono singing about the pain and struggle of a tumultuous relationship. Overall, “With or Without You” is a classic U2 track that showcases the band’s ability to create music that is both emotionally evocative and musically innovative. The song remains a fan favorite and has become a staple of U2’s live performances.
9. “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”
“I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” is a timeless classic by the Irish rock band U2. Released in 1987, the song was written about the band’s spiritual journey and the search for meaning in life. The song’s lyrics explore themes of longing, hope, and faith, and its soaring chorus has become one of the most iconic in rock music history. The combination of Bono’s passionate vocals and The Edge’s signature guitar sound creates a powerful and emotional experience for listeners. The song remains a staple of U2’s live shows and a favorite among fans around the world.
8. “One”
“One” is a hit song by U2 that was released in 1991. The song features a powerful and emotional sound, with lead singer Bono singing about the need for unity and connection in a world that often feels divided. The chorus is a memorable and uplifting call to action, with Bono singing, “One love, one blood, one life, you got to do what you should.” “One” has become a timeless anthem for social justice and human rights, and has been covered by countless artists over the years. The song’s message of unity and compassion continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
7. “Beautiful Day”
“Beautiful Day” is a song by U2 from their album “All That You Can’t Leave Behind,” released in 2000. The song features a catchy and uplifting sound, with a combination of electric guitar and soaring vocals. The lyrics of the song explore the theme of hope and redemption, with Bono singing about finding beauty and positivity in the midst of chaos and darkness. Overall, “Beautiful Day” is a feel-good track that showcases U2’s ability to create music that is both musically engaging and emotionally resonant. The song has become a fan favorite and a pop culture staple, and has been used in various movies, TV shows, and commercials.
6. “New Year’s Day”
Released in 1983, “New Year’s Day” by U2 is an anthemic track with political undertones. The song was written about the Polish Solidarity movement, a nonviolent resistance group fighting for workers’ rights, and was U2’s first Top 10 hit in the UK. The opening piano riff is instantly recognizable, and the driving beat and soaring chorus make it an uplifting and energizing track. Lead singer Bono’s passionate vocals and the band’s signature sound of ringing guitars and propulsive rhythms make “New Year’s Day” a classic U2 track that still resonates today.
5. “Pride (In The Name Of Love)”
“Pride (In The Name Of Love)” is a hit song by U2 that was released in 1984. The song features a driving and anthemic sound, with lead singer Bono singing about civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. The chorus is a memorable and powerful call to action, with Bono singing, “In the name of love, what more in the name of love?” “Pride (In The Name Of Love)” has become a timeless classic and a staple in U2’s discography, showcasing the band’s talent for creating impactful and socially conscious music.
4. “Where The Streets Have No Name”
“Where the Streets Have No Name” is a song by U2 from their album “The Joshua Tree,” released in 1987. The song features a soaring and anthemic sound, with The Edge’s iconic guitar riff and Bono’s passionate vocals. The lyrics of the song explore the theme of spiritual and emotional liberation, with Bono singing about the desire to escape from societal constraints and find freedom in an unknown and unfamiliar place. Overall, “Where the Streets Have No Name” is a classic U2 track that showcases their ability to create music that is both musically powerful and thematically resonant. The song remains a fan favorite and a staple of U2’s live performances.
3. “Discotheque”
“Discotheque” is a danceable track from U2’s 1997 album “Pop”. It features a heavy bassline and electronic beats with Bono’s falsetto vocals adding to its upbeat and groovy vibe. The song is a tribute to the 1970s disco era, with the lyrics referencing the popular dance moves and fashion of the time. The chorus “You know you’re chewing bubblegum, you know what it is, but you still want some” is an infectious earworm that will have listeners humming along. “Discotheque” was a commercial success and helped solidify U2’s reputation as one of the most versatile and experimental bands of their time.
2. “Seconds”
“Seconds” is a song by U2 from their 1983 album “War”. The song features a driving, post-punk sound, with politically-charged lyrics about the threat of nuclear war during the Cold War era. The chorus is a memorable and haunting repetition of the phrase “It takes a second to say goodbye”. The song was inspired by the rising tensions between the United States and Soviet Union, and the fear of global destruction. “Seconds” is a powerful and urgent reminder of the need for peace and understanding in a world where nuclear war remains a constant threat, and has become a fan favorite among U2 fans.
1. “Sunday Bloody Sunday”
U2’s “Sunday Bloody Sunday” is a powerful political song that addresses the 1972 Bloody Sunday massacre in Northern Ireland. The song features militaristic drumming and haunting guitar riffs that perfectly capture the sense of anger and frustration. The lyrics criticize violence and discrimination, calling for peace and unity. The chorus, “Sunday Bloody Sunday,” is a chilling reminder of the events that inspired the song. Despite the song’s heavy subject matter, it has become one of U2’s most popular and enduring songs, with its message still relevant today in the ongoing fight for social justice and human rights.
FAQs
What is U2 greatest hit? ›
1. “Where the Streets Have No Name” – 'The Joshua Tree' (1987) U2 is a band that makes you want more and inspires you to dream bigger.
What was the controversial U2 song? ›"Sunday Bloody Sunday" has been performed more than 600 times by U2.
What song is Bono embarrassed about? ›Genuine, most of the other ones make me cringe a little bit,” he said, admitting that he's “probably proudest” of the song “Vertigo.” And it's not just the tracklist that he regrets, Bono said he was also seriously against the band's name when they first came up with it.
Which song with a 3 letter title did U2 perform a 13 minute version of at live aid in 1985? ›"Bad" is considered a fan favourite and is one of U2's most frequently performed songs in concert. The band's 12-minute performance of the song at the Live Aid charity concert in 1985 was a breakthrough moment for them.
What is the biggest number one hit ever? ›"Old Town Road" holds the record for the longest stretch at No. 1 with 19 weeks. It also became the fastest song in history to be certified diamond.
What is the number one hit song of all time? ›"Blinding Lights" is now the top Billboard Hot 100 song of all time. The Weeknd and his collaborators reveal just how they made history.
What band did U2 sue? ›Moments earlier he had read from his script, "the Irish band from Dublin".) U2's label Island Records quickly sued Negativland, stating that placing the word "U2" on the cover violated trademark law, as did the song itself.
Why did Bono call his band U2? ›Bono is not a fan of the band name U2.
The name U2 was suggested by Steve Averill, who designs the group's album sleeves. Despite Bono's dislike for the name, U2 have carved out a pretty nice career over the past 30-plus years.
It's not often that U2's Bono and The Edge express envy over a song they wish they'd written, but on Tuesday's The Hollywood Reporter Awards Chatter podcast, hosted by Scott Feinberg, the duo threw some love at The New Radicals' 1998 pop classic “You Get What You Give,” written by frontman Gregg Alexander with Rick ...
What was Bono sorry for? ›I apologize for wanting to make an unreasonable guitar record that rattles my cage and others.” The apology starts at 43:55 in the below video.
What 6 songs did Bono wish he wrote? ›
As for the songs he wishes he'd written, Bono lists: 'Brownsville Girl, Bob Dylan and Sam Shepard; Unfinished Sympathy, Massive Attack; Live Forever, Oasis; The Last Song I'll Ever Sing, Gavin Friday; Lucky Man, The Verve; Almighty Love, Emm Gryner.
Did Bono have heart problems? ›Bono's Unexpected Heart Surgery. As a die-hard U2 fan, I think I know a fair amount of “Bono trivia”. However, my eyebrows shot to the top of my head when I learned – on the very first page of the book – that Bono had heart valve surgery to fix a congenital bicuspid aortic valve and an aortic aneurysm.
What is U2's longest song? ›Lemon (U2 song)
Who was the best performer at Live Aid concert? ›Queen provided magic on that summer day in 1985. Their impact was summed up by Geldof. “Queen were absolutely the best band of the day,” the Live Aid organizer said. “They played the best, had the best sound, used their time to the full.
Who was the best act in Live Aid? ›It was the performance that defined the decade. It can't be overstated how Queen's 20-minute set at Live Aid in 1985 was one of the best live performances ever. Rami Malek's Academy Award-winning portrayal of Freddie Mercury in the biopic Bohemian Rhapsody brought the epic show back into the spotlight in 2018.
What is the #1 one hit wonder? ›| # | ARTIST | TITLE |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Los Del Rio | Macarena [Bayside Boys Mix] |
| 2 | Soft Cell | Tainted Love |
| 3 | Dexy's Midnight Runners | Come on Eileen |
| 4 | Right Said Fred | I'm Too Sexy |
Michael Jackson's Thriller, estimated to have sold 70 million copies worldwide, is the best-selling album ever. Jackson also currently has the highest number of albums on the list with five, Celine Dion has four, while the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Madonna and Whitney Houston each have three.
Who has more #1 hits than the Beatles? ›As to be expected, due to his far greater number of total chart entries, Elvis has the advantage over The Beatles in most performance categories. Presley placed 102 titles in Billboard's top 40, while The Beatles had 50 entries that made it that far up the chart.
What are the 5 most recorded songs of all time? ›- 'Yesterday' by The Beatles.
- '(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction' by The Rolling Stones.
- 'Cry Me A River' by Justin Timberlake Julie London.
- 'Imagine' by John Lennon.
- 'Over The Rainbow' by Judy Garland // 'What a Wonderful World' by Louis Armstrong.
- Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas - From "Blackmail" ...
- Samne Ye Kaun Aya - From "Jawani Diwani" ...
- Chalte Chalte - Part 1 / From "Chalte Chalte" ...
- Churi Nahin Yeh Mera Dil Hai - From "Gambler" ...
- Dilbar Mere - From "Satte Pe Satta" ...
- Humko Tumse Ho Gaya Hai Pyar - From "Amar Akbar Anthony"
Who almost quit U2? ›
U2 front man Bono has admitted that he had considered quitting' the band in the past. The singer, 62 - real name Paul David Hewson - made the candid admission that he 'certainly thought about walking away' from the group on upcoming Disney+ documentary A Kind Of Homecoming.
What was U2 original name? ›They were originally “The Larry Mullen Band”. Then, briefly, “Feedback”. Shortly after their debut gig they became “The Hype”. But in March 1978, this fledgling post punk band from Dublin finally settled on the name U2.
Is U2 the greatest rock band ever? ›U2 is one of the most popular and critically acclaimed rock bands of all time. The Irish group has been making music for over four decades and has sold over 150 million records worldwide. The band has won 22 Grammy Awards, more than any other band, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.
What does Bona Vox mean? ›"Bono Vox" is an alteration of Bonavox, which was the name of a hearing aid shop in Dublin. The name derives from the Latin phrase for "good voice". The nickname was given by Guggi; Bono initially disliked it but after learning of its translation, he accepted it.
Is Bono one of the best singers? ›Bono and Van Morrison named in Rolling Stone's greatest singers of all time list. U2 frontman Bono and Belfast's Van Morrison were named among the greatest singers of all time in a list by music magazine Rolling Stone.
Why doesn t U2 perform anymore? ›The Dubliner opened up about his increasing health concerns and the demands of life on the road in an interview with Chrissy Iley for The Sunday Times Magazine. U2 were forced to abruptly stop performing during a gig in Berlin a few weeks ago after Bono's voice failed him on stage.
What was U2 first song? ›U2's first single, 11 O'Clock Tick-Tock, was released in May 1980. Boy, their debut album, was released five months later - promoted by another single, I Will Follow , October, a year later and by May 1983, they had their first UK number 1 album with War, culmination of a trio of albums produced by Steve Lillywhite.
When did U2 stop being cool? ›In the late 1980s, U2 suffered a temporary lapse of coolness during the Rattle and Hum tour, when the group's pious tendencies turned into messianic self-indulgence.
Why does Bono wear sunglasses indoors? ›Glaucoma is one of a number of conditions that causes photophobia or light sensitivity in people's eyesight. Tinted, wrap-around glasses that block out as much light as possible are known to alleviate this sensitivity. Talking to Rolling Stone magazine, Bono said: "[I have] very sensitive eyes to light.
Where did Bono get his money? ›Bono – US$700 million
British media reported that a sizeable chunk of Bono's fortune may have come from his investment firm Elevation Partners' 2.3 per cent share in Facebook, bought back in 2009. By 2015, the firm's stake was already worth just under US$1 billion.
Who did Bono hug during Live Aid? ›
8:18 Melanie and Elaine Hills are standing on the apron, waiting for Bono. He embraces Melanie and twirls her around, and then pulls Elaine in to join the hug, giving her a kiss on the forehead.
What songs did Bono write about Ali? ›Released in 1987 as the B-side to the hit song, "Where the Streets Have No Name," "Sweetest Thing" was written and recorded as a huge mea culpa to his wife, Alison (Ali) Hewson.
What faith is Bono of U2? ›In some book passages he sounds like an evangelical Christian, displaying a deep familiarity with scripture and a reverence for Christ. And yet he also says that he's never found a church he could call home, and "that what the human spirit longs for may not be corralled by any sect or denomination."
Who wrote U2 Christmas song? › What kind of back surgery did Bono have? ›U2 front-man, Bono, suffered a herniated lumbar disc and underwent surgery to remove the extruded disc fragment, according to his German neurosurgeons.
How did Bono hurt his hand? ›It's been well documented that U2 had to cancel their planned week-long residency on the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon after Bono had hurt his arm following a biking accident in Central Park, New York.
Is Bono deaf? ›Bono. Did you know that the lead singer of U2 got his name from a childhood friend who derived his name from a hearing aid store in Dublin, Ireland? Ironically Bono would later suffer from tinnitus and even sings about hearing impairment in his music.
Is U2 bigger than Metallica? ›According to the music industry trade publication Pollstar, METALLICA has sold more than 22 million concert tickets since 1982, grossing more than $1.4 billion in the process. That puts the thrash legends "just behind" U2 in tickets sold, but ahead of rock peers such as AC/DC, GUNS N' ROSES and OZZY OSBOURNE.
What is U2's biggest selling album? ›The best-selling album by U2 is THE JOSHUA TREE, which sold over 25,000,000 copies .
What is the shortest song ever recorded? ›Nicholas Bullen, writer of the song's four-word lyrics, said that the brevity of "You Suffer" was inspired by Wehrmacht's 1985 song "E!". The song has since been recognized by Guinness World Records as the shortest ever recorded.
What did Elton John say about Queen at Live Aid? ›
I said, 'Freddie, nobody should go on after you – you were magnificent. ' He said: 'You're absolutely right, darling, we were – we killed them. ' He was so excited.
What is considered the greatest live performance of all time? ›- Metallica's 1991 Moscow Performance to a crowd of 1.6 Million.
- The iconic Queen at Live Aid 1985.
- Daft Punk changing the game at Coachella 2006.
- Prince with the best Super Bowl Half Time show of all time.
- Radiohead putting on one of Glastonbury's best-ever performances in 1997.
Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson. These four outlaw country music icons had joined forces in 1984 to form the supergroup The Highwaymen. Their debut album came out just a few months before Live Aid, and none of the quartet appeared at either show..
What were Freddie Mercury's last words? ›With his farewell look straight at the camera as the song ends, Mercury whispers "I still love you", directed to his fans, which are his last words on camera. Director of the video Rudi Dolezal comments, "AIDS was never a topic. We never discussed it. He didn't want to talk about it.
Why did Queen sound better at Live Aid? ›Firstly, Queen's talented sound engineer was one of the few who knew how to properly maximise the output within the limits so Queen sounded clearer and louder. Brian May was correct when he said Trip made them sound louder. Hill explains: “Trip Khalaf from Queen wasn't phased by anything.
Is U2 the biggest rock band in the world? ›U2 have released 15 studio albums and are one of the world's best-selling music artists, having sold an estimated 150–170 million records worldwide. They have won 22 Grammy Awards, more than any other band, and in 2005, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in their first year of eligibility.
Why is U2 the greatest band of all time? ›U2 is one of the most popular and critically acclaimed rock bands of all time. The Irish group has been making music for over four decades and has sold over 150 million records worldwide. The band has won 22 Grammy Awards, more than any other band, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.
Who is the greatest rock band of all time? ›- The Beatles. The Beatles are unquestionably the best and most important band in rock history, as well as the most compelling story. ...
- The Rolling Stones. ...
- U2. ...
- The Grateful Dead. ...
- Velvet Underground. ...
- Led Zeppelin. ...
- Ramones. ...
- Pink Floyd.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, British rock band The Beatles are top of the list for best-selling artists worldwide, with 183 million units certified sales.
Is U2 bigger than the Beatles? ›The Beatles are the highest-grossing band of all time, with estimated revenues of over $1.3 billion. U2 is a close second, with estimated revenues of over $1 billion.
Who is the best U2 cover band? ›
Hollywood U2 – Award-winning U2 Tribute Band, pays tribute to U2's iconic career with heart, passion and soul.
What is U2's best selling single? ›- Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me 2 355.
- Pride (In The Name Of Love) 3 251.
- With Or Without You 4 226.
- Vertigo 1 200.
- I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For 6 159.
- Desire 1 156.
- Sweetest Thing 3 142.
- Stay (Faraway, So Close) 4 141.
Comprised of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, The Beatles are globally recognized and are credited with inspiring many famous musicians to pursue music. The most influential band of all time, The Beatles are creative and innovative, and a deserving band at the top of this list.
Why doesn t Bono like the name U2? ›It is the name U2, however, that Bono said he most dislikes about his band. "In our head, it was like the spy plane, U-boat, it was futuristic – as it turned out to imply this kind of acquiescence, no I don't like that name. I still don't really like the name," he said. Sign up for notifications from Insider!
What band had the biggest impact on music? ›The English rock band the Beatles are commonly regarded as the foremost and most influential band in popular music history.
What is the number 1 selling album of all time? ›Michael Jackson's Thriller, estimated to have sold 70 million copies worldwide, is the best-selling album ever. Jackson also currently has the highest number of albums on the list with five, Celine Dion has four, while the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Madonna and Whitney Houston each have three.
Who sold more albums U2 or queen? ›So while both Queen and U2 are hugely successful and important rock bands, U2 is ultimately the bigger band. There is no doubt Queen outsold U2 in album sales, but they never toured to sell out.