U2
The monumental rock of Dublin
Formation and Early Years
U2 was formed in Dublin, Ireland, in 1976 by Bono (vocals), The Edge (guitar), Adam Clayton (bass), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums). It was Mullen, then just 14 years old, who posted the notice that brought the band together.
Rise to Fame and Global Success
War (1983) and “Sunday Bloody Sunday” established a politically charged and powerful rock sound. The Joshua Tree (1987) became a global phenomenon, selling more than 25 million copies and producing hits such as “With or Without You” and “Where the Streets Have No Name”.
Achtung Baby (1991) marked a bold shift toward a more electronic and ironic sound. The Zoo TV and PopMart tours revolutionized the concept of the stadium concert.
The performance of “Bad” at Live Aid on July 13, 1985, proved to be a turning point. Bono climbed down into the crowd and danced with a fan for nearly 12 minutes, a moment broadcast live to an estimated 2 billion viewers. The performance transformed U2 from a promising band into global superstars.
Legacy
U2 has sold more than 170 million albums worldwide and won 22 Grammy Awards, a record for a band. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005. Bono is also widely known for his humanitarian work through campaigns such as ONE and RED.
Iconic Guitar
The Edge is inseparable from his Gibson Explorer, Fender Stratocaster, and his distinctive sound built around delay effects (particularly the Memory Man) and rich harmonics.
Guitars available at Matt’s Guitar Shop:
