Albums in Order

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The List of U2 Albums in Order of Release

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U2 Albums in Order: From their inception in 1976 as a group of school friends in Dublin to their recent release of “Songs of Surrender” in 2023, the legendary Irish rock band U2 has left an indelible mark on the music world.

U2, the iconic Irish rock band hailing from Dublin, has etched an indelible mark on the music industry since their formation in 1976. Comprising the talents of Bono (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), the Edge (lead guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums and percussion), the band’s journey from humble beginnings as teenage students at Mount Temple Comprehensive School to global stardom is nothing short of remarkable.

U2’s evolution from post-punk roots to their distinctive anthemic sound, characterized by Bono’s emotive vocals and the Edge’s effects-laden guitar work, has captivated audiences worldwide. Lyrically, Bono’s songs often weave personal narratives with poignant sociopolitical themes, augmented by spiritual imagery. Renowned for their electrifying live performances, U2’s elaborate tours have become legendary. With a discography that spans 15 studio albums, including the chart-topping “The Joshua Tree,” and a staggering estimated 150-170 million records sold globally, U2 has solidified their place as one of the world’s best-selling music artists.

Their humanitarian efforts, commitment to human rights, and numerous accolades, including 22 Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, further exemplify their impact beyond the realm of music. In 2023, they continue to innovate with “Songs of Surrender,” a collection of reimagined classics from their storied career, cementing their status as living legends in the world of rock music. So, if you are a die heart fan of U2 Albums then check out here we have list of U2 albums in order of release so far.

 

U2 Albums Available on:  Apple Music 

 

How many albums does U2 have?

The discography of the Irish rock band U2 consists of 15 studio albums, one live album, three compilation albums, 84 singles, and nine extended plays (EPs).

 

All U2 Albums in Order: Check Out The List of U2 Albums in Order of Release Here!

Here is the list of U2 Album in Order of Release Date:

  1. Boy — 20 October 1980
  2. October — 12 October 1981
  3. War — 28 February 1983
  4. The Unforgettable Fire — 1 October 1984
  5. The Joshua Tree — 9 March 1987
  6. Rattle and Hum — 10 October 1988
  7. Achtung Baby — 18 November 1991
  8. Zooropa — 5 July 1993
  9. Pop — 3 March 1997
  10. All That You Can’t Leave Behind — 30 October 2000
  11. How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb — 22 November 2004
  12. No Line on the Horizon — 27 February 2009
  13. Songs of Innocence — 9 September 2014
  14. Songs of Experience — 1 December 2017
  15. Songs of Surrender — 17 March 2023

 

All U2 Albums List in Order

1. Boy (1980)

U2 Album Boy image

Tracks

  1. I Will Follow
  2. Twilight
  3. An Cat Dubh
  4. Into the Heart
  5. Out of Control
  6. Stories for Boys
  7. The Ocean
  8. A Day Without Me
  9. Another Time, Another Place
  10. The Electric Co.
  11. Shadows and Tall Trees

“Boy” stands as the debut studio album by the illustrious Irish rock band U2. Released on October 20, 1980, under Island Records and produced by Steve Lillywhite, it drew from a selection of 40 songs the band had in their repertoire at the time. Recorded at Dublin’s Windmill Lane Studios over three months, the album featured unconventional recording techniques, such as capturing drummer Larry Mullen Jr. in a stairwell and incorporating sounds like smashed bottles and cutlery against a spinning bicycle wheel.

Thematically, “Boy” delves into themes of adolescence, innocence, and the transition to adulthood, evident in its cover art. It garnered positive reviews, introduced the U.S. to “I Will Follow,” and set the stage for their inaugural tour, the Boy Tour. Rolling Stone later included it on their list of “The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time,” solidifying its place in music history.

2. October (1981)

U2 Album October image

Tracks

  1. Gloria
  2. I Fall Down
  3. I Threw a Brick Through a Window
  4. Rejoice
  5. Fire
  6. Tomorrow
  7. October
  8. With a Shout (Jerusalem)
  9. Stranger in a Strange Land
  10. Scarlet
  11. Is That All?

“October” stands as the second studio album by Irish rock luminaries U2, unveiled on October 12, 1981, under the production helm of Steve Lillywhite and released by Island Records. This album was profoundly influenced by the band members’ involvement in the Shalom Fellowship, a Christian group, infusing the record with spiritual and religious undertones.

As U2 grappled with the interplay between faith and the “rock and roll” lifestyle, the band faced potential dissolution. Following their 1981 Boy Tour leg, they delved into the creation of “October” in July 1981 at Windmill Lane Studios, albeit under challenging circumstances, as Bono’s lost briefcase forced a frantic, improvisational approach to completing the album. Despite mixed reviews and limited radio play, “October” remains a significant chapter in U2’s musical journey, later receiving a remastered edition in 2008.

3. War (1983)

U2 Album War image

Tracks

  1. Sunday Bloody Sunday
  2. Seconds
  3. New Year’s Day
  4. Like a Song…
  5. Drowning Man
  6. The Refugee
  7. Two Hearts Beat as One
  8. Red Light
  9. Surrender
  10. 40

“War,” the third studio album by Irish rock band U2, emerged on February 28, 1983, produced by Steve Lillywhite and released under Island Records. Marked as U2’s inaugural overtly political endeavor, it tackled themes of conflict, reflected in iconic tracks like “Sunday Bloody Sunday” and “New Year’s Day.” U2 recorded the album at Windmill Lane Studios from September to November 1982, with Lillywhite, their longtime collaborator. In contrast to previous albums centered on adolescence and spirituality, “War” delved into the physical and emotional aspects of warfare. It showcased a harsher musical edge, turning pacifism into a crusade.

The album achieved commercial triumph, reaching number one in the UK and earning gold certification in the US. Its enduring impact is reflected in its inclusion in Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Albums of All Time.”

4. The Unforgettable Fire (1984)

U2 Album The Unforgettable Fire image

Tracks

  1. A Sort of Homecoming
  2. Pride (In the Name of Love)
  3. Wire
  4. The Unforgettable Fire
  5. Promenade
  6. 4th of July
  7. Bad
  8. Indian Summer Sky
  9. Elvis Presley and America
  10. MLK

“The Unforgettable Fire,” U2’s fourth studio album, marked a pivotal moment in the band’s musical evolution. Released on October 1, 1984, and produced by Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, it represented a deliberate shift from the hard-hitting rock of their previous work, “War” (1983). Recorded at Slane Castle and Windmill Lane Studios, the album introduced an ambient sound characterized by atmospheric melodies and Bono’s lyrical sketches. The title itself was inspired by an art exhibit about the Hiroshima atomic bombing. Notably, it featured the hit “Pride (In the Name of Love),” a tribute to Martin Luther King Jr., and remains a fan favorite. A 25th-anniversary edition further celebrated this influential record in 2009.

5. The Joshua Tree (1987)

U2 Album The Joshua Tree image

Tracks

  1. Where the Streets Have No Name
  2. I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For
  3. With or Without You
  4. Bullet the Blue Sky
  5. Running to Stand Still
  6. Red Hill Mining Town
  7. In God’s Country
  8. Trip Through Your Wires
  9. One Tree Hill
  10. Exit
  11. Mothers of the Disappeared

“The Joshua Tree,” U2’s fifth studio album, released on March 9, 1987, represents a pivotal moment in the band’s career. Produced by Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno, it marked a departure from the ambient sound of its predecessor, “The Unforgettable Fire,” embracing a harder-hitting musical style. The album’s themes are deeply rooted in American experiences, literature, and politics, exploring the contrast between the “real America” and the “mythical America.” It was recorded in Ireland and reflects the band’s fascination with American landscapes. Critically acclaimed, it topped charts worldwide, yielding iconic hits like “With or Without You” and “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.”

The Joshua Tree remains one of the best-selling and culturally significant albums in music history, earning numerous awards and accolades, including Grammys and a place in the US National Recording Registry.

6. Rattle and Hum (1988)

U2 Album Rattle and Hum image

Tracks

  1. Helter Skelter
  2. Van Diemen’s Land
  3. Desire
  4. Hawkmoon 269
  5. All Along the Watchtower
  6. I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For
  7. Freedom for My People
  8. Silver and Gold
  9. Pride (In the Name of Love)
  10. Angel of Harlem
  11. Love Rescue Me
  12. When Love Comes to Town
  13. Heartland
  14. God Part II
  15. The Star Spangled Banner
  16. Bullet the Blue Sky
  17. All I Want Is You

“Rattle and Hum” is a significant moment in U2’s musical journey, released as a hybrid live/studio album and accompanied by a rockumentary film in 1988. Produced by Jimmy Iovine, the album emerged on October 10, 1988, with the Phil Joanou-directed film following on October 27. Building on the triumph of their previous album, “The Joshua Tree,” this project delves into American roots music, blending blues rock, folk rock, and gospel with their signature sound during the Joshua Tree Tour.

The collection features new studio tracks, live performances, and collaborations with legends like Bob Dylan and B.B. King. While met with mixed reviews, the album sold 14 million copies and produced hits like “Desire,” marking a transitional point in U2’s creative journey.

7. Achtung Baby (1991)

U2 Album Achtung Baby image

Tracks

  1. Zoo Station
  2. Even Better Than the Real Thing
  3. One
  4. Until the End of the World
  5. Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses
  6. So Cruel
  7. The Fly
  8. Mysterious Ways
  9. Tryin’ to Throw Your Arms Around the World
  10. Ultraviolet (Light My Way)
  11. Acrobat
  12. Love Is Blindness

“Achtung Baby,” the seventh studio album by the iconic Irish rock band U2, marked a pivotal moment in their career when it was released on November 18, 1991. Produced by Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno, the album represented a significant departure from their previous work. Criticized for their 1988 release, “Rattle and Hum,” U2 embraced alternative rock, industrial music, and electronic dance music influences, resulting in a darker and more introspective thematic tone.

Recorded at Berlin’s Hansa Studios, the sessions were characterized by conflict and self-doubt, eventually leading to a breakthrough with the creation of “One.” “Achtung Baby” debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 and sold 18 million copies worldwide, earning critical acclaim and a Grammy Award. It remains one of U2’s greatest albums, celebrated for its innovation and impact.

8. Zooropa (1993)

U2 Album Zooropa image

Tracks

  1. Zooropa
  2. Babyface
  3. Numb
  4. Lemon
  5. Stay (Faraway, So Close!)
  6. Daddy’s Gonna Pay for Your Crashed Car
  7. Some Days Are Better Than Others
  8. The First Time
  9. Dirty Day
  10. The Wanderer

“Zooropa,” the eighth studio album by Irish rock band U2, emerged as a sonic exploration released on July 5, 1993, under the guidance of producers Flood, Brian Eno, and the Edge. Inspired by the tech-savvy and media-saturated landscape experienced during the Zoo TV Tour, the album delved into themes of technology and oversaturation. Building on the experimental foundation of their previous album, “Achtung Baby” (1991), “Zooropa” was originally conceived as an EP but evolved into a full-length record during its rapid six-month creation.

Despite its singles not achieving consistent success, the album garnered positive reviews and sold impressively, earning the Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album in 1994. Though seen as creatively significant, U2’s feelings toward “Zooropa” remain mixed.

9. Pop (1997)

U2 Album Pop image

Tracks

  1. Discothèque
  2. Do You Feel Loved
  3. Mofo
  4. If God Will Send His Angels
  5. Staring at the Sun
  6. Last Night on Earth
  7. Gone
  8. Miami
  9. The Playboy Mansion
  10. If You Wear That Velvet Dress
  11. Please
  12. Wake Up Dead Man

“Pop” marks U2’s ninth studio album, released on March 3, 1997, produced by Flood, Howie B, and Steve Osborne. This offering epitomized the band’s musical evolution during the 1990s, blending alternative rock, techno, dance, and electronica influences. Innovative production techniques, such as sampling, loops, and programmed drum machines, defined the album’s sound. Recording commenced in 1995 with a lineup of accomplished producers, including Nellee Hooper, but faced hurdles, including drummer Larry Mullen Jr.’s temporary absence due to injury.

The band’s decision to rush completion for their PopMart Tour hindered the album’s outcome. Despite an initial favorable reception and chart-topping success, “Pop” suffered from mixed reviews, modest sales, and re-recordings that affected tour quality.

10. All That You Can’t Leave Behind (2000)

U2 Album All That You Can't Leave Behind image

Tracks

  1. Beautiful Day
  2. Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of
  3. Elevation
  4. Walk On
  5. Kite
  6. In a Little While
  7. Wild Honey
  8. Peace on Earth
  9. When I Look at the World
  10. New York
  11. Grace

“All That You Can’t Leave Behind” marks the tenth studio album by the iconic Irish rock band, U2, released on October 30, 2000, through Island Records and Interscope Records. Produced by Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, it marked a return to the band’s earlier sound after experimenting with alternative and dance music in the 1990s. Originally named “U2000,” the album achieved immense success, topping charts in 32 countries and selling over 12 million copies.

It featured hit singles like “Beautiful Day,” “Walk On,” “Elevation,” and “Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of,” earning seven Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year for both “Beautiful Day” and “Walk On.” In 2003, it was ranked 139th on Rolling Stone’s “The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time” list. A reissue in 2020 celebrated its 20th anniversary.

11. How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (2004)

U2 Album How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb image

Tracks

  1. Vertigo
  2. Miracle Drug
  3. Sometimes You Can’t Make It on Your Own
  4. Love and Peace or Else
  5. City of Blinding Lights
  6. All Because of You
  7. A Man and a Woman
  8. Crumbs from Your Table
  9. One Step Closer
  10. Original of the Species
  11. Yahweh

“How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb,” U2’s eleventh studio album, arrived on the music scene in November 2004, following the band’s experimentation with alternative rock and dance music in the 1990s. Produced by a team of talents including Steve Lillywhite, Chris Thomas, Jacknife Lee, and others, the album marks a return to a more mainstream rock sound. U2’s creative journey for this record began in February 2003, and after extensive work and dissatisfaction, they brought in Lillywhite to reshape the material.

Thematically, the album delves into profound subjects like life, death, love, war, faith, and family. It garnered critical acclaim, topped charts in 30 countries, and won numerous Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, making it one of U2’s most successful releases.

12. No Line on the Horizon (2009)

U2 Album No Line on the Horizon image

Tracks

  1. No Line on the Horizon
  2. Magnificent
  3. Moment of Surrender
  4. Unknown Caller
  5. I’ll Go Crazy If I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight
  6. Get On Your Boots
  7. Stand Up Comedy
  8. Fez – Being Born
  9. White as Snow
  10. Breathe
  11. Cedars of Lebanon

“No Line on the Horizon,” U2’s twelfth studio album, ushered in a new era for the Irish rock band. Released on February 27, 2009, it marked the end of their longest gap between studio albums up to that point, following “How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb” in 2004. Originally conceived as two EPs, the album took shape under the production of Brian Eno, Daniel Lanois, and Steve Lillywhite. Inspired by their time in Fez, Morocco, U2 aimed to create “future hymns” with exotic influences, resulting in a more experimental sound. Although not as radical as initially suggested, the album received favorable reviews, debuting at number one in 30 countries.

Despite expectations, it sold five million copies, leading to U2’s ambitious U2 360° Tour, which became the highest-grossing concert tour in history, raking in over $736 million.

13. Songs of Innocence (2014)

 

Tracks

  1. The Miracle (of Joey Ramone)
  2. Every Breaking Wave
  3. California (There Is No End to Love)
  4. Song for Someone
  5. Iris (Hold Me Close)
  6. Volcano
  7. Raised by Wolves
  8. Cedarwood Road
  9. Sleep Like a Baby Tonight
  10. This Is Where You Can Reach Me Now
  11. The Troubles

“Songs of Innocence,” the thirteenth studio album by Irish rock band U2, made waves upon its release on September 9, 2014. Produced by Danger Mouse and featuring additional production from Paul Epworth, Ryan Tedder, Declan Gaffney, and Flood, the album was a groundbreaking event. It was unveiled at an Apple Inc. product launch and gifted to all iTunes Store customers worldwide. This unprecedented digital release, promoted as “the largest album release of all time,” reached over 500 million iTunes users. Thematically, the album delves into the band members’ Irish youth, blending childhood memories, love, and loss, while paying homage to musical influences like the Ramones and the Clash.

Despite mixed reviews and controversy surrounding its digital distribution, “Songs of Innocence” left a lasting mark on U2’s discography, earning a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Album and sparking a successful tour.

14. Songs of Experience (2017)

U2 Album Songs of Experience image

Tracks

  1. Love Is All We Have Left
  2. Lights of Home
  3. You’re the Best Thing About Me
  4. Get Out of Your Own Way
  5. American Soul
  6. Summer of Love
  7. Red Flag Day
  8. The Showman (Little More Better)
  9. The Little Things That Give You Away
  10. Landlady
  11. The Blackout
  12. Love Is Bigger Than Anything in Its Way
  13. 13 (There Is a Light)

“Songs of Experience,” the fourteenth studio album by U2, was released on December 1, 2017, and boasts a roster of acclaimed producers, including Jacknife Lee, Ryan Tedder, Steve Lillywhite, and others. Serving as a companion piece to their preceding album, “Songs of Innocence” (2014), this record takes a thematic shift. Lead vocalist Bono pens a collection of heartfelt letters to significant people and places in his life. The album features guest appearances from notable artists like Haim, Kendrick Lamar, and Lady Gaga. “Songs of Experience” underwent a transformation during its creation, responding to shifting global politics and Bono’s personal experiences.

Despite mixed critical reception, it achieved commercial success and marked U2’s fourth decade atop the US chart. The album was supported by the Experience + Innocence Tour, showcasing U2’s enduring musical prowess.

15. Songs of Surrender (2023)

u2 Songs of Surrender album image

Tracks

Disc one – The Edge

  1. One
  2. Where the Streets Have No Name
  3. Stories for Boys
  4. 11 O’Clock Tick Tock
  5. Out of Control
  6. Beautiful Day
  7. Bad
  8. Every Breaking Wave
  9. Walk On (Ukraine)
  10. Pride (In the Name of Love)

Disc two – Larry

  1. Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses
  2. Get Out of Your Own Way
  3. Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of
  4. Red Hill Mining Town
  5. Ordinary Love
  6. Sometimes You Can’t Make It on Your Own
  7. Invisible
  8. Dirty Day
  9. The Miracle (of Joey Ramone)
  10. City of Blinding Lights

Disc three – Adam

  1. Vertigo
  2. I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For
  3. Electrical Storm
  4. The Fly
  5. If God Will Send His Angels
  6. Desire
  7. Until the End of the World
  8. Song for Someone
  9. All I Want Is You
  10. Peace on Earth

Disc four – Bono

  1. With or Without You
  2. Stay (Faraway, So Close!)
  3. Sunday Bloody Sunday
  4. Lights of Home
  5. Cedarwood Road
  6. I Will Follow
  7. Two Hearts Beat as One
  8. Miracle Drug
  9. The Little Things That Give You Away
  10. 40

“Songs of Surrender” is a notable album by Irish rock band U2, produced by the Edge and released on March 17, 2023, through Island Records and Interscope Records. The album is a unique collection of 40 re-recorded and reinterpreted songs from U2’s extensive back catalog, featuring stripped-down and acoustic arrangements. It serves as a companion piece to Bono’s memoir, “Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story” (2022), where each chapter is named after a U2 song. Recorded over two years during the COVID-19 pandemic, the album saw collaboration with various producers and musicians. Despite mixed critical reception, it debuted at number one on European charts and marked U2’s 11th number-one album in the UK. Alongside its release, a documentary film titled “Bono & The Edge: A Sort of Homecoming” premiered on Disney+.

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