The Best of U2

In celebration of the release of their new album, Songs of Surrender, the album is a companion to Bono's memoir Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story. We at Amplified take a trip down memory lane of their hit albums that have made us smile and cry over the last 4 decades.

 

About U2

 

The band, which was formed in Dublin in 1976, comprises Bono (lead vocals), The Edge (guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums and percussion). 

U2 has released numerous critically acclaimed albums throughout their career, including "The Joshua Tree," "Achtung Baby," and "All That You Can't Leave Behind." Many of their songs have become cultural touchstones, addressing topics such as love, loss, faith, and social justice.

In addition to their musical achievements, U2 has also been recognized with numerous awards and honours, including 22 Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

 

 

The Joshua Tree  (1987)

 

Their fifth studio album sold over 25 million units becoming their best-selling album of all time. The album cemented U2's status as one of the biggest bands in the world, thanks to its powerful and poetic lyrics, soaring melodies, and stunning guitar work. This was a commercial and critical success upon its release, and it remains one of U2's most beloved and influential albums.

Inspired by U2's experiences touring America in the mid-80s, and the songs explore themes of America, faith, and personal identity. From the opening track, "Where The Streets Have No Name," to the closing ballad, "Mothers of the Disappeared," The Joshua Tree is a powerful and emotional journey through the American landscape.

Standouts on the album include the iconic "With Or Without You," with its haunting, atmospheric guitar riff, and the politically charged "Bullet The Blue Sky," which takes aim at the Reagan administration's foreign policy.

 

 

Achtung Baby (1991)

 

Released 32 years ago, Their album Achtung Baby is often hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time. It marked a major departure from the band's previous sound and image, and signaled a new era for U2. 

The album was a response to the changing musical and cultural landscape of the early 1990s. The band had become disillusioned with the excesses of the 1980s and sought to reinvent themselves for a new era. The result was a dark and moody album, filled with themes of love, loss, and disillusionment. From the haunting opening track "Zoo Station" to the soaring ballad "One," Achtung Baby showcased the band's versatility and willingness to take risks. The album also featured hits like "Mysterious Ways" and "Even Better Than the Real Thing," which became instant classics.

Achtung Baby was a defining moment for U2. It signaled a willingness to experiment and take risks, and marked a new chapter in the band's career. It remains a beloved album to this day.

 

 

The Best Of 1980 - 1990 (1998)

 

Their first greatest hits album featured a compilation of songs from their early work in the 80s that have captured the world and fans alike. It was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in many countries and selling millions of copies worldwide. 

The album includes some of U2's most iconic songs, such as "Pride (In the Name of Love)," "With or Without You," and "Sunday Bloody Sunday." These songs are not only great examples of U2's musical prowess but also showcase the band's commitment to social and political issues. And  "Pride (In the Name of Love)" is a tribute to civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.

 

 

 

All That You Can't Leave Behind (2000)

 

Their tenth studio album marked a return to the band's roots with a more stripped-down sound after the experimentation of their previous albums.

The album featured hits songs such as "Beautiful Day," "Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of," and "Walk On."

The audience was able to listen to a more positive and uplifting tone, with Bono's lyrics expressing hope and optimism in the face of adversity. This album has earned them seven Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Rock Album, and also marked a turning point for the band, with the success of the album helping them reach a new generation of fans and solidifying their place as one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

 

 

 

Safe to say this band is pretty legendary, with four decades of music that still continues to draw the attention of all generations.

Shop our range of U2 apparel featuring tour-inspired graphics perfect for fans.

 

 

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