U2, arguably the most successful Irish rock band formed in the late 1970s, and is known for their anthemic sound and socially conscious lyrics. Led by Bono, with The Edge's innovative guitar work, they produced hits like "With or Without You” "Beautiful Day” and "Sunday Bloody Sunday”. U2 rose to global fame in the 1980s and 1990s, and remain active today, continuing to tour and release new music while engaging in humanitarian efforts.
U2 Career Highlights
1976
The band was formed in Dublin, Ireland, by Bono (Paul Hewson), The Edge (David Howell Evans), Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr.
1980
Debut Album - Released "Boy” which included the hit single "I Will Follow."
1983
War - Released their third studio album "War” which featured the politically charged single "Sunday Bloody Sunday."
1987
The Joshua Tree - Released their fifth album, which became one of their most successful records, featuring hits like "With or Without You" and "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For."
1991
Achtung Baby - Released their seventh studio album, marking a significant shift in their musical style.
2000
All That You Can't Leave Behind - Marked their return to a more mainstream rock sound, featuring hits like "Beautiful Day" and "Elevation."
2005
How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb - This album continued their success with hits like "Vertigo" and "City of Blinding Lights."
2014
Songs of Innocence - Released for free on iTunes, sparking controversy but reaching a vast audience.
2017
The Joshua Tree Tour 2017 - Celebrated the 30th anniversary of their iconic album with a worldwide tour.
U2 band Members and instruments
- Bono (Paul Hewson) Lead vocals and rhythm guitar.
- The Edge (David Howell Evans) Lead guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals.
- Adam Clayton: Bass guitar.
- Larry Mullen Jr.: Drums and percussion.
U2 has maintained the same lineup since its formation in 1976, which is a rarity in the music industry.
U2Grammy Awards
U2 has won 22 Grammy Awards, making them one of the most awarded bands in Grammy history.
Notable Wins…
- Album of the Year: "The Joshua Tree" (1988), "How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb" (2006).
- Record of the Year: "Beautiful Day" (2001), "Walk On" (2002).
- Make It on Your Own" (2006).
3 Most Famous U2 Songs
1. "With or Without You" (1987)
- A defining song from "The Joshua Tree" album, showcasing Bono's powerful vocals and The Edge's distinctive guitar style.
2. "One" (1991)
- From the "Achtung Baby" album, this song is often cited as one of the greatest songs of all time and a staple of U2's live performances.
3. "Beautiful Day" (2000)
- A major hit from "All That You Can't Leave Behind” this song marked U2's return to a more mainstream sound and earned them several Grammy Awards.
Quotes by U2 band members
Bono
Music can change the world because it can change people.
U2 is not just a band. It is a collective force that is here to stay.
Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- iTunes Controversy: In 2014, U2 released "Songs of Innocence" for free on iTunes, automatically adding the album to users' libraries. This sparked backlash from some users who felt their privacy was invaded.
- Activism: Bono is well-known for his activism, particularly in issues related to poverty and AIDS in Africa. He co-founded DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa) and the ONE Campaign.
- The Joshua Tree Incident: During the "Joshua Tree" tour, Bono climbed a giant sculpture of a tree, nearly falling off and causing a scare for the audience and band members.
- Spinal Tap Moment: During a concert in the early 1980s, The Edge once fell off the stage and Bono fell into the drum kit, showcasing the band's early struggles with live performances.
- Larry Mullen Jr.'s Injury: In the early 2000s, Larry Mullen Jr. suffered from severe back pain, which nearly led him to leave the band. He underwent surgery and physical therapy to continue performing.
U2 ratings
U2 Albums
See also U2 Discography