U2 is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time. The Irish quartet, consisting of Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr., formed in 1976 and has since released 14 studio albums and sold over 150 million records worldwide. With their socially conscious lyrics and powerful, anthemic sound, U2 has inspired countless musicians and fans over the years.
In this article, we will be exploring the top 20 best U2 songs of all time. From their early days with hits like “I Will Follow” and “Sunday Bloody Sunday” to their later chart-toppers such as “One” and “Beautiful Day,” we will be taking a journey through U2’s extensive catalog of classic songs. Each song on this list has been chosen based on its impact on the band’s career, its commercial success, and its lasting influence on the world of music. Whether you’re a die-hard U2 fan or a newcomer to their music, this list is sure to have something for everyone. So sit back, turn up the volume, and enjoy the top 20 best U2 songs of all time.
1. “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”
“I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” is a classic rock ballad by U2, released in 1987 as the second single from their critically acclaimed album, “The Joshua Tree.” The song features Bono’s soulful vocals and The Edge’s iconic guitar work, creating a soaring and emotive anthem. Lyrically, the song explores themes of spiritual longing and a search for deeper meaning in life, with Bono’s lyrics expressing a sense of restlessness and a desire for something more. The song has since become one of U2’s most beloved and iconic tracks, with its powerful chorus and uplifting message resonating with audiences around the world.
2. “One”
“One” is a song by the Irish rock band U2 that was released as the third single from their 1991 album “Achtung Baby.” The song is a ballad with lyrics that explore themes of unity, forgiveness, and redemption. It was written by all four members of the band and features a melancholic melody that is accompanied by Bono’s emotional vocals. “One” has become one of U2’s most popular and enduring songs, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song’s music video, directed by Anton Corbijn, features the band performing the song in a Berlin recording studio while footage of the band members and their loved ones is interspersed throughout. “One” has been praised for its heartfelt lyrics and powerful message of hope and togetherness, and is often cited as one of U2’s greatest achievements.
3. “Sunday Bloody Sunday”
“Sunday Bloody Sunday” is a politically charged song by the Irish rock band U2, released in 1983 as the opening track from their album “War.” The song’s lyrics were inspired by the Bloody Sunday massacre in 1972 in which British soldiers killed 13 unarmed civilians during a peaceful civil rights march in Derry, Northern Ireland. The song’s lyrics denounce the violence and sectarianism that has plagued Ireland for centuries, and its driving beat and anthemic chorus have made it a staple of U2’s live performances. The song’s iconic drum riff, performed by Larry Mullen Jr., sets the tone for the song’s message of defiance and resistance against oppressive forces. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” has been praised for its powerful lyrics and its ability to bring attention to social and political issues, and it remains a popular and influential song in U2’s catalogue.
4. “Pride (In the Name of Love)”
“Pride (In the Name of Love)” is a classic rock anthem by U2, released in 1984 as the lead single from their album “The Unforgettable Fire.” The song is a tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy, with Bono’s powerful vocals and The Edge’s soaring guitar riffs creating a sense of urgency and passion. Lyrically, the song addresses the idea of non-violent resistance in the face of oppression and injustice, with Bono singing about the importance of standing up for what you believe in. “Pride (In the Name of Love)” has since become one of U2’s most enduring and beloved songs, with its timeless message of hope and unity continuing to resonate with audiences around the world.
5. “With Or Without You”
“With or Without You” is a classic song by the Irish rock band U2, released in 1987 as the lead single from their album “The Joshua Tree.” The song is a love ballad that features Bono’s yearning vocals and the band’s signature atmospheric sound. The lyrics describe the struggle of a love that is both necessary and painful, with lines like “And you give yourself away, and you give yourself away, and you give, and you give, and you give yourself away.” The song’s emotional intensity is underscored by The Edge’s haunting guitar riff and Adam Clayton’s pulsating bass line. “With or Without You” became U2’s first number one hit in the United States, and it remains one of their most popular and beloved songs. Its universal themes of love and longing have resonated with audiences around the world, and it is often cited as one of the greatest rock ballads of all time.
6. “I Will Follow”
“I Will Follow” is a classic rock song by U2, released in 1980 as the lead single from their debut album “Boy.” The song features The Edge’s distinctive guitar riffs and Bono’s powerful vocals, creating a driving and energetic anthem. Lyrically, the song is a tribute to Bono’s mother, who passed away when he was just 14 years old. The lyrics express a sense of loss and a desire to follow in her footsteps, with Bono singing “If you walkaway, walkaway, I will follow.” “I Will Follow” has since become one of U2’s most beloved and iconic tracks, with its catchy chorus and uplifting message resonating with audiences around the world. The song’s raw energy and emotional depth helped establish U2 as one of the most exciting and innovative bands of their time.
7. “Beautiful Day”
“Beautiful Day” is a classic rock song by U2, released in 2000 as the lead single from their album “All That You Can’t Leave Behind.” The song features a memorable guitar riff from The Edge and Bono’s uplifting vocals, creating a powerful and anthemic sound. Lyrically, the song celebrates the beauty of life and the simple pleasures that bring us joy, with Bono singing “It’s a beautiful day, don’t let it get away.” The song’s optimistic message and catchy chorus have made it a favorite among U2 fans, with its popularity enduring well into the present day. “Beautiful Day” has become one of U2’s most successful and recognizable songs, winning multiple Grammy Awards and helping to cement their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
8. “Until the End of the World”
“Until the End of the World” is a song by the Irish rock band U2, released in 1991 as the fourth track from their album “Achtung Baby.” The song’s lyrics were inspired by the story of Judas Iscariot and his betrayal of Jesus, with Bono’s vocals taking on the persona of Judas. The song features a driving beat and a distorted guitar riff by The Edge, as well as a haunting chorus sung by Bono and backing vocalist The Edge. “Until the End of the World” has been praised for its dark, brooding atmosphere and its exploration of themes of guilt, betrayal, and redemption. The song has also been noted for its biblical imagery and its provocative exploration of religious themes. “Until the End of the World” remains a favorite among U2 fans, and its inclusion in the band’s live performances has helped cement its status as a classic rock song.
9. “New Year’s Day”
“New Year’s Day” is a song by the Irish rock band U2, released in 1983 as the lead single from their album “War.” The song was inspired by the Solidarity movement in Poland and its struggle against communist oppression. The song features a driving beat and a distinctive piano riff played by The Edge, as well as Bono’s impassioned vocals. The lyrics describe the hope and optimism of a new beginning, with lines like “All is quiet on New Year’s Day, a world in white gets underway.” The song’s anthemic chorus has made it a popular live performance for U2, and it remains one of their most beloved and enduring songs. “New Year’s Day” has been praised for its combination of political and personal themes, as well as its memorable melody and powerful message of hope and resilience.
10. “Staring at the Sun”
“Staring at the Sun” is a song by the Irish rock band U2, released in 1997 as the second single from their album “Pop.” The song features a distinctive electronic sound, with The Edge’s guitar playing taking a back seat to synthesizers and drum machines. The lyrics describe a sense of disillusionment and despair in the face of a changing world, with lines like “There’s an insect in your ear if you scratch it won’t disappear, it’s gonna itch and burn and sting.” The song’s chorus is a soaring anthem, with Bono’s vocals conveying a sense of longing and desperation. “Staring at the Sun” has been praised for its innovative sound and its exploration of themes of anxiety and disorientation in the modern world. Despite mixed reviews for the “Pop” album as a whole, “Staring at the Sun” remains a fan favorite and a powerful example of U2’s ability to push the boundaries of their sound.
11. “Bullet the Blue Sky”
“Bullet the Blue Sky” is a song by the Irish rock band U2, released in 1987 as the fourth track from their album “The Joshua Tree.” The song’s lyrics were inspired by Bono’s experiences traveling through Central America and witnessing the violence and oppression of the region’s military regimes. The song features a distinctive guitar riff played by The Edge, as well as a pounding beat and Bono’s searing vocals. The lyrics are a scathing indictment of the military-industrial complex and its role in perpetuating violence and injustice, with lines like “See the sky ripped open, see the rain comin’ through the gapin’ wound.” “Bullet the Blue Sky” has become a staple of U2’s live performances, with the band often incorporating political speeches and imagery into the song’s powerful message. The song has been praised for its raw intensity and its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of war and political violence.
12. “Mysterious Ways”
“Mysterious Ways” is a song by Irish rock band U2, released in 1991 as the second single from their album “Achtung Baby.” The song features a funky guitar riff, a catchy melody, and Bono’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics are open to interpretation, but are generally thought to be about the power of love and attraction. The song’s music video, directed by Stephane Sednaoui, features belly dancer Morleigh Steinberg and is known for its abstract and surreal imagery. “Mysterious Ways” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. The song has remained a fan favorite and is often performed live by the band. Its catchy melody, funky rhythm, and uplifting message make it one of U2’s most beloved songs.
13. “Desire”
“Desire” is a song by Irish rock band U2, released in 1988 as the lead single from their album “Rattle and Hum.” The song features a driving rhythm, bluesy guitar riffs, and Bono’s passionate vocals. The lyrics are about the power of desire and its ability to both motivate and corrupt. The song’s music video, directed by Richard Lowenstein, features footage of the band performing the song live in a bar in Memphis, Tennessee, interspersed with scenes of burlesque dancer Mae West. “Desire” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. The song remains a fan favorite and is often performed live by the band. Its upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it one of U2’s most recognizable and beloved songs.
14. “Where the Streets Have No Name”
“Where the Streets Have No Name” is a song by Irish rock band U2, released in 1987 as the third single from their album “The Joshua Tree.” The song is known for its soaring guitar intro and anthemic chorus, with Bono’s vocals evoking a sense of longing and spiritual yearning. The lyrics describe a desire to escape the confines of social divisions and prejudices, and find a place where everyone is equal. The song’s music video, directed by Meiert Avis, features the band performing on a rooftop in downtown Los Angeles, drawing a huge crowd and causing a traffic jam below. “Where the Streets Have No Name” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and winning a Grammy Award for Best Performance Music Video. The song has become one of U2’s most iconic and enduring hits, often played as the opening song of their live shows, with its uplifting message and epic sound making it a fan favorite.
15. Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me”
“Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me” is a song by U2, released in 1995 as a single from the Batman Forever soundtrack. The song features a driving rhythm, distorted guitar riffs, and Bono’s soaring vocals, with lyrics that explore themes of fame, desire, and self-destruction. The music video, directed by Kevin Godley and Maurice Linnane, features the band performing on a dark, futuristic set, intercut with scenes from the Batman Forever film. “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Original Song. The song’s dark, edgy sound and theatrical imagery have made it a fan favorite and a staple of U2’s live shows.
16. “Gloria”
“Gloria” is a song by Irish rock band U2 from their second studio album, “October”. Released in 1981, the song has become a fan favorite and a staple of U2’s live performances. The song features an upbeat, driving rhythm section and catchy guitar riffs, with Bono’s vocals soaring over the top. Lyrically, the song is an ode to the band’s spiritual beliefs and is named after the Christian hymn “Gloria in excelsis Deo” (Glory to God in the highest). The song’s chorus features the Latin phrase “Gloria, in te domine” (Glory, in you, Lord), adding to the song’s religious themes. “Gloria” is a high-energy, uplifting song that showcases U2’s early sound and their ability to create anthemic rock music.
17. “A Sort of Homecoming”
“A Sort of Homecoming” is a song by Irish rock band U2, released in 1985 on their album “The Unforgettable Fire.” It opens with a dreamy, atmospheric guitar riff that sets the tone for the song’s introspective, nostalgic lyrics. The song is inspired by U2’s experience of leaving their home country to tour and perform around the world, feeling a sense of homesickness while on the road. The chorus features Bono’s emotive vocals singing, “And you know it’s time to go/ Through the sleet and driving snow/ Across the fields of mourning/ To a light that’s in the distance.” The song builds to an anthemic climax with the repeated refrain of “Oh, a sort of homecoming” before slowly fading out with the same dreamy guitar riff from the beginning. “A Sort of Homecoming” is a beautiful and poignant track that showcases U2’s ability to capture complex emotions through their music.
18. “Lemon”
“Lemon” is a song by U2 from their 1993 album “Zooropa”. The song is driven by electronic beats and features a heavy use of synthesizers, giving it a distinctively experimental and futuristic sound. The lyrics of the song explore themes of isolation and longing, with Bono singing about being lost in a dreamlike world and searching for a way back to reality. The song’s chorus features a memorable falsetto hook, and the bridge features a spoken-word section by H.P. Lovecraft. “Lemon” was not released as a single, but it has become a fan favorite and is often performed in concert. The song’s music video, directed by Mark Neale and featuring Bono in a virtual reality setting, was also highly praised for its innovative visual effects.
19. “Elevation”
“Elevation” is a classic rock song by U2, released in 2001 as the third single from their album “All That You Can’t Leave Behind.” The song features a driving bassline and The Edge’s distinctive guitar work, creating a catchy and upbeat sound. Lyrically, the song expresses a sense of excitement and joy, with Bono singing about the thrill of being alive and the power of music to lift our spirits. The chorus, which repeats the line “Elevation” multiple times, has become one of the most recognizable hooks in U2’s catalog. “Elevation” has since become a staple of U2’s live shows, with its infectious energy and anthemic sound making it a favorite among fans. The song’s combination of rock and electronic elements helped to establish U2 as a band that was willing to experiment with new sounds and push the boundaries of what rock music could be.
20. “Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses”
“Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses” is a song by the Irish rock band U2, released as the fifth and final single from their 1991 album “Achtung Baby.” The song has a slower tempo and features Bono’s signature emotive vocals, with lyrics that explore themes of love and loss. The song’s instrumentation includes a driving drum beat and a soaring guitar riff, which are reminiscent of the band’s earlier work. Despite not being as commercially successful as some of their other singles, “Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses” has become a fan favorite and a staple in their live performances. The song’s music video, which features the band performing in a smoky bar, adds to its gritty, yet romantic, atmosphere.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
