'I've got you under my skin' lyrics by Bono and Frank Sinatra

'I've got you under my skin' lyrics by Bono and Frank Sinatra

A song with a pedigree of talent. Written by the great song writer Cole Porter and when first sung by Virginia Bruce it became an Oscar nominated song in 1936. 

Frank Sinatra made it his own in 1946. A re-recording in 1966 prove extremely popular an it became a standard to cover.

And then enters Bono.

Buy the single from Amazon

Bono and the Chairman of the Board recorded it was a duet in 1993 and released it as a double A-Side with the U2 single, Stay (Faraway, So Close) from the Grammy Award winning Zooropa album.

Bono made a variant to the lyrics when he sang 'don't you know old blue eyes' - a reference to Sinatra himself.

U2's I've got you under my skin song lyrics:

I have got you under my skin
I've got you deep in the heart of me
So deep in my heart you're really a part of me
I've got you under my skin

I have tried so not to give in
I have said to myself this affair, never gonna go so well
But why should I try to resist when baby, I know so well
That I've got you under my skin

I would sacrifice anything come what might
For the sake of holding you near
In spite of a warning voice comes in the night
And repeats, and it shout's in my ear

Bono

"Don't you know blue eyes, you never can win
Use your mentality, wake up to reality"
But each time I do just the thought of you
Makes me stop before I begin
Because I've got you under my skin

I'd sacrifice everything come what might
For the sake of having you near
Inspite of a warning voice that comes in the night
And repeats, and it shout's in my ear

"Don't you know you fool, you never can win
Use your mentality, wake up to reality"
But each time that I do just the thought of you
Makes me stop before I begin
'Cause I've got you under my skin
And I love you under my skin

U2 would later compose an original song for Frank Sinatra called Two Shots of Happy, One Shot of Sad.

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The Real Meaning of 5 U2 Song Lyrics

The real meaning of 5 U2 Song Lyrics

A classic rock song, can say anything and mean everything.

Look at Oasis's Wonderwall lyrics for example. It's basically a love song but without really actually meaning or saying anything.

To my mind, a really good song is one which has hidden depths - and those depths can usually be found in the lyrics and often in U2 songs.

Here's 5 U2 song lyrics that have some real meaning, and some real bite to them.

God Part II

People often wonder why this song is called Pt II as they've never heard of a U2 song called God before. It's actually intended as a sequel to John Lennon's song called God.

Lennon's song refers to things he didn't believe in such as Hitler - Bono's version also refers to things that he also doesn't believe in but also goes on to refer to how pissed he was at the author Albert Goldman who wrote an unflattering biography of Lennon (and also a bio of Elvis, and given U2's love of Elvis, I'm not surprised Bono made the reference).

Sunday Bloody Sunday 

This one is a pretty obvious song, but newer U2 fans may not realise the historical context and meaning of this song.

It's an exploration of the conflict that can exist between the State, it's people and when religion gets thrown into the mix.

Inspired by two terrible occasions where soldiers shot civilians in Northen Ireland - the lyrics capture these moments crisply by invoking the cross fire that occurred between Ireland's conflicting religions and the military action that was taken - and by extension the State's role in the massacres.

Walk On

This is one of those songs that stray into the say anything, mean anything territory but U2 have put some real context around it to to ensure that it's lyrics are not misunderstood.

Dedicated to Aung San Suu Kyi, this song is a freedom song, dedicated to the exponent of democracy and freedom in Mynamar.

Poignantly during the 360 degree tour, U2 played this song at every concert and had supporters of Amnesty International come out on to the stage to show their support for Aung San Suu Kyi and U2's support for the people of Mynammar and their efforts to become a truly democratic society.

Spanish Eyes

Despite stealing lyrics from "She's a rainbow" by the Rolling Stones, Spanish Eyes is a love song to Bono's wife Ali - and she is actually Irish thus confusing the heck out of many U2 fans.

However, it's often thought that Irish people do have eyes that have a hint of Spanish about them so perhaps that's want Bono's lyrics were trying to convey.

This b-side from The Joshua Tree era kind of complements The Sweetest Thing in the sense that it was also a b-side and also a love letter to Ali.

Zooropa

Zooropa is a really crazy song that opens the album of the same name.

Some fans have been confused by the lyrics of the song - they seem so mumble jumbled and make no sense.

The real meaning of the song can be determined when you realise the lyrics are a hodge podge of slogans from famous brands.

Zooropa's lyrics have a running theme of irony, tying in the "media overload" themes of the Zoo TV Tour into the context of a post-Berlin Wall Europe.

The song's lyrics touch on how modern technology can unite people as well as separates  them from each other.

Want more? Check out U2 lyrics that explore Jesus, Yahweh and The Good Book.

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"The Million Dollar Hotel" film soundtrack Lyrics by U2

The soundtrack for The Million Dollar Hotel is a rich and eclectic album, heavily influenced by the involvement of U2, particularly Bono, who played a significant role both in the film's conception and its music.

Directed by Wim Wenders, the movie centers around a group of misfits in a downtown Los Angeles hotel, and the music mirrors its melancholic and atmospheric tone. Bono co-wrote the story for the film and took an active part in shaping the soundtrack, blending U2's signature sound with experimental and atmospheric elements that match the film's offbeat and noir-esque narrative.

The album is not just a collection of songs but a concept-driven body of work that encapsulates the mood of the movie, balancing ethereal, dark tones with occasional bright, soulful melodies. It reflects the emotional landscape of the characters in the film, making it a vital component of the storytelling.

U2’s involvement goes beyond Bono's behind-the-scenes role. The album features three U2 tracks: "The Ground Beneath Her Feet," "Stateless," and a remix of "The First Time."

"The Ground Beneath Her Feet," co-written by Bono and Salman Rushdie (based on a passage from Rushdie’s novel of the same name), stands out as one of the emotional anchors of the film and soundtrack. This song merges U2’s signature style with an otherworldly feel, making it a poignant moment within the film’s score.

"Stateless" is another key contribution, a haunting, introspective track that blends ambient rock with a dreamlike quality, fitting well within the overall sonic landscape. The remixed version of "The First Time" takes on a more subdued, reflective tone compared to the original version on U2's 1993 Zooropa album, further adding to the contemplative, downbeat mood of the soundtrack.

The soundtrack also brought in an impressive array of other musicians who added their distinctive talents to the album. Daniel Lanois, a longtime U2 collaborator and renowned producer, was heavily involved, contributing to both the production and performance notably his slide guitar. 

Brian Eno, another frequent U2 collaborator, also made contributions, bringing his ambient sensibilities to the soundtrack’s more experimental moments. The involvement of Jon Hassell, a jazz trumpeter known for blending world music with ambient and electronic influences, added to the album's unique fusion of sounds, enriching the sonic palette. 

The Million Dollar Hotel Soundtrack Lyrics:

1. "The Ground Beneath Her Feet"
2. "Never Let Me Go"
3. "Stateless"
4. "Satellite of Love"
5. "Falling at Your Feet"
6. "Tom Tom's Dream"
7. "The First Time"
8. "Bathtub"
9. "The First Time" (Reprise)
10. "Tom Tom's Room"
11. "Funny Face"
12. "Dancin' Shoes"
13. "Amsterdam Blue (Cortége)"
14. "Satellite of Love" (Reprise) 

15. "Satellite of Love"
16. "Anarchy in the USA"

The relationship between U2 and director Wim Wenders is one of mutual artistic respect and fruitful collaboration, spanning several decades and multiple projects. Their partnership began in the early 1990s, when U2 contributed the song "Until the End of the World" to Wenders' 1991 film of the same name. 

This marked the start of a creative synergy that would see U2 become a regular feature in Wenders' work. The band’s atmospheric and emotionally charged music fit perfectly with Wenders’ cinematic style, which often explores existential themes and human connections. Their collaboration deepened in Faraway, So Close! (1993), with U2 providing the track "Stay (Faraway, So Close!)"—one of their most poignant ballads. 

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U2's Zooropa album song lyrics

I think Zooropa was the first U2 album I ever bought.

I vaguely recall having heard Numb on what was then called 93 FM and thinking it sounded pretty cool. Then on a trip later to Taupo with my Dad and brothers I saw a poster with all the song titles on it and it looked awesome and dangerous unlike say the Roxette album we listened to on the way to Taupo.

Soon after I bought the album and my musical journey with U2 began.

Anyways you didn't come here for the memories of a teenager, you came for the lyrics of Zooropa, a Grammy award winning album that featured a monotoned The Edge, an amazing vocal track by the late and great Johnny Cash and some fantastic Brian Eno keyboard magic on Lemon.

Zooropa was a quick companion piece of sorts to Achtung Baby. 

Lyrically, Zooropa expanded on many of the Achtung Baby tours' themes of media over-saturation, technology, and of course love.

U2's Zooropa lyrics:

1. "Zooropa"
2. "Babyface"
3. "Numb" (The Edge on lead vocal)
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"

Extra for Experts

Hold Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me, Thrill Me was also written during the recording sessions for Zooropa, however it was considered to different from the other songs to warrant a place on the album and somehow it found its way onto the Batman Forever movie soundtrack.

The creative process for "Zooropa" was notably unconventional, as it largely took place during the breaks in the "Zoo TV Tour," which was itself a groundbreaking and highly theatrical production. This tour, with its multimedia extravagance, was a sensory overload, reflecting the band's fascination with the rapidly evolving media landscape and the post-Cold War cultural shifts. Immersed in this high-energy, technologically saturated environment, U2 began to experiment with new sounds and themes, leading to the creation of "Zooropa."

 The album is characterized by its experimental edge, incorporating electronic music elements and a more avant-garde approach compared to their previous work. This period of creativity was marked by a sense of immediacy and spontaneity, as the band took advantage of the touring momentum. They often recorded in makeshift studios set up in various locations along the tour, capturing the kinetic energy and chaotic spirit of the time. 

The result was an album that not only extended the aesthetic of "Achtung Baby" but also pushed the boundaries of U2's sound, reflecting the band's ongoing evolution and willingness to explore new artistic territories.

Themes of Zooropa's lyrics

The album is steeped in themes of technological saturation, media overload, and the existential disquiet of a rapidly changing world. It encapsulates the anxiety and excitement of an age increasingly dominated by television, advertising, and the burgeoning influence of the internet. This is vividly portrayed in tracks like "Zooropa" and "Numb," which lyrically and sonically capture the sensory overload of the media landscape. 

The album also delves into the uncertainties of European identity and unity in the post-Berlin Wall era, a theme poignantly explored in the song "Stay (Faraway, So Close!)," which juxtaposes personal longing with broader geopolitical changes. Moreover, "Zooropa" grapples with existential themes of doubt, disillusionment, and the search for meaning, particularly in songs like "The First Time" and "The Wanderer," featuring Johnny Cash. 

These tracks question traditional values and beliefs in a world increasingly defined by consumerism and superficiality. The album's experimental sound, blending rock with electronic and avant-garde elements, underscores its thematic exploration of disorientation and the search for authenticity in an age of overwhelming information and relentless change, making "Zooropa" a compelling snapshot of its time and a thought-provoking commentary on the human condition in the modern era.

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"The Wanderer" Song Lyrics meaning - U2

In “The Wanderer,” U2 features Johnny Cash's distinctive baritone to convey a profound narrative steeped in themes of searching, dislocation, and spiritual yearning. The song's protagonist embodies the archetype of the eternal seeker, wandering through life in pursuit of meaning and connection. Bono’s lyrics reflect an existential journey where the character grapples with the weight of choices made and the elusive nature of belonging.

The imagery of wandering serves as a metaphor for the human condition, echoing biblical themes of pilgrimage and the quest for the Kingdom of God. The protagonist's restless spirit mirrors humanity’s broader search for divine purpose and truth amidst a fragmented world.

Bono has articulated that the song speaks to the universal quest for understanding, as the wanderer traverses various landscapes—both physical and emotional—symbolizing the trials of life that can lead one away from the divine.

The refrain, “I went out walking,” evokes the feeling of solitude and introspection, emphasizing that the journey is as important as the destination. As the character navigates through the chaos of existence, he reflects on the impermanence of worldly possessions and experiences, realizing that true fulfillment lies beyond material pursuits.

 

The Wanderer Lyrics with Johnny Cash on vocals.

I went out walking through streets paved with gold
Lifted some stones
Saw the skin and bones of a city without a soul
I went out walking under an atomic sky
Where the ground won't turn and the rain
It burns like the tears when I said goodbye

Yeah I went with nothing
Nothing but the thought of you
I went wandering

I went drifting through the capitals of tin
Where men can't walk or freely talk
And sons turn their fathers in
I stopped outside a church house
Where the citizens like to sit
They say they want the kingdom
But they don't want God in it
I went out riding down that old eight lane
I passed by a thousand signs
Looking for my own name
I went with nothing
But the thought you'd be there too
Looking for you

I went out there in search of experience
To taste and to touch and to feel
As much as a man can before he repents

I went out searching, looking for one good man
A spirit who would not bend or break
Who would sit at his father's right hand
I went out walking with a bible and a gun
The word of God lay heavy on my heart
I was sure I was the one
Now Jesus, don't you wait up
Jesus I'll be home soon
Yeah, I went out for the papers
Told her I'd be back by noon

Yeah, I left with nothing
But the thought you'd be there too
Looking for you
Yeah, I left with nothing
Nothing but the thought of you
I went wandering

-

“The Wanderer” serves as a poignant bookend to Zooropa, encapsulating the album's exploration of existential themes such as identity, dislocation, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. From the outset, Zooropa grapples with the complexities of modern life, addressing themes like consumerism, alienation, and the quest for authenticity amidst a barrage of technological distractions. As the final track, “The Wanderer” distills these themes into a personal narrative that resonates deeply with the listener, reinforcing the album's overarching message while providing a sense of closure.

Throughout Zooropa, U2 examines the dichotomy between the allure of superficiality and the deeper human longing for connection and purpose. The protagonist of “The Wanderer” reflects this struggle, embodying the search for spiritual fulfillment in a world often devoid of meaning. This character's journey mirrors the album's exploration of existential questions, emphasizing that while the modern landscape is filled with distractions and temptations, the pursuit of deeper truths remains paramount. In this sense, the wanderer becomes a representation of every individual navigating the complexities of life, ultimately seeking solace and understanding beyond the chaos.

By concluding Zooropa with “The Wanderer,” U2 invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the universal quest for belonging and identity. The song’s themes of pilgrimage and spiritual searching resonate with the album’s earlier explorations, reinforcing the idea that amidst the turmoil of contemporary existence, the search for the “Kingdom of God” or a sense of inner peace is an enduring endeavor. As the final notes fade, the listener is left with a sense of hope and introspection, encapsulating the essence of Zooropa while leaving the door open for further exploration of these themes in their own lives. Check out more of Johnny Cash's American Recordings Lyrics or the lyrics to Wake Up Dead Man - an almost spiritual cousin of the song.

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"Dirty Day" Song Lyrics meaning by U2

“Dirty Day” captures the struggle of confronting life's disillusionments and the yearning for redemption amidst the chaos of one's past.

Many of the lyrics are taken from phrases that Bono's father would use, including "I don't know you and you don't know the half of it", "No blood is thicker than ink", "Nothing's as simple as you think", and "It won't last kissing time." The title was inspired by another phrase Bono's father would often use, "it's a dirty day".

Bono describes the song as an exploration of the struggles and stains that life can leave on a person, evoking a sense of both longing and desperation. 

Dirty Day serves as a reflection on the moments when we confront the remnants of our past, confronting the “dirty” aspects of our lives that we wish to forget. The lyrics echo a sense of searching for clarity amid confusion, reminiscent of the Prodigal Son’s realization of his mistakes as he wanders far from home (a theme covered in The First Time). 

The repeated refrain, “It was a dirty day,” encapsulates the essence of facing the raw truths of existence, highlighting the struggle to reconcile one’s past with the desire for redemption. This duality of acceptance and resistance resonates throughout the song, illustrating how the journey of self-discovery can be marred by the very choices that define us.

This is not the first time Bono had used his parents as lyrical inspiration, I Will Follow from Boy was a notable early reference to his mother and several albums later, Bono would write for his father on Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own which featured on How to Dismantle An Atomic Bomb.

Zooropa's liner notes dedicate this song to the drunken American novelist, Charles Bukowski.

"Dirty Day" Lyrics by U2 from the Zooropa album.

I don't know you and
You don't know the half of it
I had a staring role
I was the bad guy who walked out
They say be careful where you aim
Because where you aim you just might hit
You can hold onto something so tight
You've already lost it

Dragging me down
That's not the way it used to be
You can't even remember what I'm trying to forget
It was a dirty day
A dirty day

You want explainations
I don't even understand
If you need someone to blame
Throw a rock in the air
You're bound to hit someone guilty

From father to son
In one life has begun
A work that's never done
Father to son

And love, it won't last kissin' time
And love, it won't last kissin' time
And love, it won't last kissin' time

Get it right
There's no blood thicker than ink
Hear what I say
Nothing's a simple as you think
Wake up
Somethings you can't get around
I'm in you
Moreso when they put me in the ground

Hank says
The days, days, days
Run away like horses over the hill
The days, days, days
Run away like horses over the hill
The days, days, days
Run away like horses over the hill
The days, days, days
Run away like horses over the hill
The days, days, days
Run away like horses over the hill
The days, days, days
Run away like horses over the hill
The days, days, days
Run away like horses over the hill
The days, days, days
Run away like horses over the hill

-

Musically, “Dirty Day” employs a driving rhythm and haunting melodies that reflect the urgency of the protagonist’s internal conflict. The Edge’s distinctive guitar tones weave a tapestry of sound that mirrors the emotional turbulence expressed in the lyrics. Bono’s delivery, infused with raw emotion, further elevates the song's impact, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences of disillusionment and the quest for identity. As the narrative unfolds, the protagonist’s longing for redemption and a sense of belonging echoes the Prodigal Son's journey back to his father. In this way, “Dirty Day” becomes a powerful anthem of self-reflection and resilience, capturing the essence of the human experience as one navigates the dirt and grime of life, ultimately seeking a path toward healing and acceptance.

Check out the lyrics to Numb from Zooropa.

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"The First Time" song lyrics meaning U2

In “The First Time,” U2 crafts a poignant exploration of longing, regret, and redemption that echoes the narrative of the Prodigal Son, a theme deeply rooted in human experience and spirituality. Bono has described the song as a reflection on the complexities of love and the vulnerability that accompanies it. 

With its ethereal soundscape and deeply personal lyrics, “The First Time” invites listeners into a contemplative space where the protagonist grapples with the weight of past mistakes while yearning for a reconnection with lost innocence. The song’s opening lines set the tone for this introspective journey, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time, reminiscent of the Prodigal Son's initial carefree days before his reckless departure.

Bono’s insight into the Prodigal Son story adds another layer of meaning to the song. 

He often highlights the significance of the father’s unwavering love and the son’s eventual return as emblematic of forgiveness and acceptance. “The First Time” embodies this transformative experience, illustrating how love can serve as both a sanctuary and a source of pain. 

"The First Time" song lyrics meaning U2

I have a lover, a lover like no other
She got soul soul soul, sweet soul
And she teach me how to sing
Shows me colours when there's none to see
Gives me hope when I can't believe
But for the first time I feel love

I have a brother when I'm a brother in need
I spend my whole time running
He spends his running after me
I feel myself goin' down
I just call and he comes around
But for the first time I feel love

My father is a rich man, he wears a rich man's cloak
Gave me the keys to his kingdom coming
Gave me a cup of gold
He said 'I have many mansions
And there are many rooms to see'
But I left by the back door
And I threw away the key
And I threw away the key
Yeah, I threw away the key
Yeah, I threw away the key

For the first time
For the first time
For the first time I feel love

The instrumentation further enhances the song’s emotional depth, with The Edge's haunting guitar riffs mirroring the lyrical themes of yearning and introspection. Bono has noted that “music is the language of the spirit,” and in “The First Time,” the blend of airy melodies and poignant lyrics creates a sonic landscape that captures the essence of vulnerability. 

The song culminates in a moment of clarity, where the protagonist recognizes that the journey back home is fraught with challenges but ultimately necessary for redemption. Through this lens, “The First Time” transcends its personal narrative to become a universal anthem of love, loss, and the enduring hope of reconciliation, much like the timeless parable of the Prodigal Son (and indeed Bono's song about his own father, Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own).

You may like to read the lyrics to The Wanderer which featured the amazing vocal of Johnny Cash in god-fearing cowboy mode.....

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"Some Days Are Better Than Others" Lyrics Meaning - U2

"Some Days Are Better Than Others," a deceptively simple track tucked away on Zooropa. 

At first blush, it's classic U2 with that anthemic Edge guitar and Bono's yearning vocals. But beneath the shimmering surface lies a meditation on the human condition, a wry acknowledgment of life's inherent inconsistency. 

Bono, ever the observer, sketches out a series of vignettes, capturing the mundane and the profound with equal measure. "Some days are dry, some days are leaky"—it's a playful nod to the unpredictable nature of existence, the emotional weather patterns we all navigate.

But there's a deeper resonance here, a hint of existential angst lurking in the shadows. Lines like "Some days you wake up in the army / And some days it's the enemy" suggest a struggle for identity, a sense of disorientation in a world that can shift beneath your feet. 

And yet, amidst the uncertainty, there's a glimmer of hope. That soaring chorus, with its declaration that "some days are better than others," isn't just a platitude. 

It's a lifeline, a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, moments of grace and clarity exist. It's U2 at their most human, grappling with the complexities of life and finding solace in the simple truth that, well, some days are just better than others.

"Some Days Are Better Than Others" Lyrics Meaning - U2

Some days are dry
Some days are leaky
Some days come clean
Other days are sneaky
Some days take less but most days take more
Some slip through your fingers and onto the floor

Some days your quick but most days you're speedy
Some days you use more force than is necessary
Some days just drop in on us
Some days are better than others

Some days it all adds up and what you've got is enough
Some days are better than others

Some days are slippy
Other days sloppy
Some days you can't stand the sight of a puppy
Your skin is white but you think you're a brother
Some days are better than others

Some days you wake up with her complaining
Some sunny days you wish it was raining
Some days are sulky
Some days have a grin
Some days have bouncers and won't let you in

Some days you hear a voice taking you to another place
Some days are better than others

Some days are honest
Some days are not
Some days you're thankful for what you've got
Some days you wake up in the army
And some days it's the enemy

Some days you work
Most days you're lazy
Some days you feel like a bit of a baby
Looking for Jesus and His mother
Some days are better than others

Some days you feel ahead
You're making sense of what she said
Some days are better than others
Some days you hear a voice taking you to another place
Some days are better than others

-

"Some Days Are Better Than Others" functions as a grounding force within the dizzying, often disorienting landscape of Zooropa. 

While the album grapples with themes of technology, media saturation, and a fractured sense of self, this song offers a moment of reflection amidst the chaos. It's a reminder that even in a world of fleeting trends and manufactured emotions, the basic human experience remains constant. We still have good days and bad days, moments of clarity and confusion, feelings of connection and alienation. In a way, it's the album's most human track, stripping away the futuristic sheen to reveal the vulnerable heart beating beneath. 

It's a song that says, yes, the world is changing rapidly, but we're still here, navigating the same ups and downs, searching for meaning in the everyday. 

Check out the lyrics to U2's Numb.

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"Stay (Faraway, So Close!)" Song Lyrics by U2

One of the most traditionally U2-sounding tracks on Zooropa also stands out as one of the band’s finest, and it serves as a tribute to Ol’ Blue Eyes himself. This song originated during the Achtung Baby sessions, where it was initially titled "Sinatra," a nod to the Edge’s attempt to evoke the crooner’s essence with a Tin Pan Alley-inspired piano melody. 

Bono had a bit of a bromance going on with Sinatra at one point they dueted on I've got you under my skin which served as the b-side to the Stay single. Indeed, Two Shots of Happy, One Shot of Sad was written for him. Ultimately, Frank's daughter Nancy Sinatra recorded a version. 

The track found its place when German director Wim Wenders – who had previously used the band’s remix of “Until the End of the World” for his 1991 film of the same name – asked U2 to compose the theme for his 1993 film Faraway, So Close! The film was about angels who want to become human and live on Earth.

"Stay (Faraway, So Close!)" Song Lyrics by U2

Green light, 7-Eleven
You stop in for a pack of cigarettes
You don't smoke, don't even want to
Hey now, check your change
Dressed up like a car crash
The wheels are turning but you're upside down
You say when he hits you you don't mind
Because when he hurts you you feel alive
Oh now, is that what it is

Red light, grey morning
You stumble out of a hole in the ground
A vampire or a victim
It depends on who's around
You used to stay up to watch the adverts
You could lip-synch to the talk shows
And if you look, you look through me
And when you talk it's not to me
And when I touch you, you don't feel a thing

If I could stay, then the night would give you up
Stay, and the day would keep its trust
Stay, and the night would be enough

Faraway, so close up with the static and the radio
With satellite television you can go anywhere
Miami, New Orleans, London, Belfast and Berlin
And if you listen I can't call
And if you jump, you just might fall
And if you shout, I'll only hear you
If I could stay then the night would give you up
Stay then the day would keep its trust
Stay with the demons you drowned
Stay with the spirit I found
Stay and the night would be enough

Three o'clock in the morning
It's quiet and there's no one around
Just the bang and the clatter as an angel runs to ground
Just the bang and the clatter as an angel hits the ground

-

"Stay (Faraway, So Close!)" is a song layered with emotional complexity, capturing a sense of yearning, isolation, and the paradox of distance and proximity, both physically and emotionally. Bono has described it as reflecting the perspective of angels who long to become human, a theme tied directly to Wim Wenders' film Faraway, So Close! where celestial beings observe human life but can’t fully participate in it without losing their immortality. 

This sense of watching life from a distance, yet being so near, underpins the lyrical mood of the song. Bono once said, “It’s about how you can be right beside someone and feel a million miles away.” The lyrics tap into that universal feeling of being close to something or someone, yet unable to truly grasp it, whether it's love, a relationship, or even life itself. The recurring imagery of sleepless nights and fleeting moments – “dressed up like a car crash” – underscores the emotional wreckage of desire and the toll it takes.

In many ways, the song plays on the tension between wanting to stay in the comfort of the familiar and the pull toward something deeper, yet more dangerous or vulnerable. Bono's reflective delivery highlights this tension, and the yearning in lines like “If I could stay, then the night would give you up” speaks to an unattainable permanence, where even love can feel elusive despite its proximity. It’s a meditation on the limits of connection and the sacrifices we make, often unknowingly, to be truly present in life, love, and relationships. 

The Melon Remix album featured a remix of Stay by Underdog

Check out the lyrics to U2's Lemon.

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"Lemon" Song Lyrics Meaning by U2

"Lemon" is one of the most striking tracks from Zooropa, capturing U2's deep dive into experimental, electronic soundscapes while maintaining the emotional depth and lyrical complexity that defines their work. The song emerged from the same creative surge that fueled Achtung Baby but took a more avant-garde approach, heavily influenced by the burgeoning dance and techno music of the early 1990s.

Built on a pulsating, hypnotic groove, the track features Bono’s falsetto vocals, a departure from his typical style, adding to the song’s ethereal and detached feel. 

At its core, "Lemon" is a reflection on memory, time, and loss, with the titular lemon symbolizing a captured moment of beauty preserved on film. Bono has explained that the inspiration came from a home video of his mother in a lemon-colored dress, sparking a meditation on how we try to hold onto fleeting moments, even as they slip through our grasp.

Lyrically, "Lemon" is rich with existential themes, exploring the limits of memory and the tension between the present and the past. 

Bono’s falsetto, floating over the electronic rhythms, creates a sense of distance, as if the narrator is observing life from a removed, almost clinical perspective. The repetition of lines like "she wore lemon" underscores the fixation on a single, vivid image—one that represents both beauty and impermanence. Bono once noted that the song is about "trying to preserve something precious in a world that’s constantly changing." 

The idea of film as a medium to preserve memory is central to the song, with lyrics like “a man makes a picture, a moving picture” reflecting the human desire to capture moments, yet recognizing that even this effort is fleeting. The song’s use of a danceable, almost mechanical beat juxtaposed with deeply personal reflections mirrors the technological and emotional tensions U2 was exploring thematically for Zooropa. 

"Lemon" Song Lyrics Meaning by U2

Lemon, see through in the sunlight
She wore lemon but never in the daylight
She's gonna make you cry
She's gonna make you whisper and moan
When you're dry she draws her water from the stone

And I feel like I'm slowly, slowly, slowly slipping under
And I feel like I'm holding onto nothing

She wore lemon to colour in the cold, grey night
She had heaven and she held on so tight

A man makes a picture, a moving picture
Through light projected he can see himself up close
A man captures colour, a man likes to stare
He turns his money into light to look for her

And I feel like I'm drifting, drifting, drifting from the shore
And I feel like I'm swimming out to her

Midnight is where the day begins
Midnight is where the day begins
Midnight is where the day begins
Midnight is where the day begins

Lemon, see through in the sunlight
A man builds a city with banks and cathedrals
A man melts the sands so he can see the world outside
You're gonna meet her there
A man makes a car
She's your destination
And builds a road to run them on
You gotta get to her
A man dreams of leaving
She's imagination
But he always stays behind

And these are the days when our work has come asunder
And these are the days when we look for something other

Midnight is where the day begins
Midnight is where the day begins
Midnight is where the day begins
Watching her
Midnight is where the day begins
Watching her
Midnight is where the day begins
Midnight is where the day begins
Midnight is where the day begins
Midnight is where the day begins

A man makes a picture, a moving picture
Through light projected he can see himself up close
You're gonna meet her there
A man captures colour
She's your destination
A man likes to stare
There's no sleeping there
He turns his money into light to look for her
She's imagination
Lemon
She is the dreamer, she's imagination
She had heaven
Through the light projected he can see himself up close
She wore lemon

-

Musically, "Lemon" represents U2’s continued evolution toward embracing new textures and genres. The production, spearheaded by Brian Eno and Flood, incorporates synthesizers, loops, and a driving bassline that gives the song a futuristic sheen. Yet beneath the electronic surface, there’s a vulnerability, especially in the way Bono’s falsetto conveys longing and fragility. The stark contrast between the song’s cold, digital atmosphere and its warm, human core is emblematic of U2's ability to fuse disparate elements into something greater. "Lemon" stands as one of the band’s most innovative and unconventional tracks, marrying introspection with sonic experimentation, while questioning how we navigate the intersection of memory, loss, and the passage of time in a world increasingly mediated by technology.

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"Numb" Song Lyrics + Thematic Meaning - U2

Sunday, August 16, 2009

"Numb" was released as the Zooropa's first single in July 1993.

It represents a sharp break from U2's typical lyrical and vocal style, embodying the disorienting overload of modern life through its relentless, almost robotic delivery. 

The song features a litany of commands—"Don't move, don't talk, don't scream"—which Edge delivers in a monotone voice, creating a sense of detachment and suppression. This reflects the dehumanizing effects of overstimulation and the overwhelming pressure to conform to societal norms, leaving little room for individuality or emotional expression. 

Bono described the song as a “barrage of ‘don’ts’” and a reaction to the controlling forces we face in everyday life, whether from the media, authority figures, or internalized expectations.

Edge’s minimalist delivery enhances the sense of numbness, as if he's already surrendered to the mechanized world the song critiques. The lyrics mirror the stifling nature of constant input—"too much is not enough"—where the sheer volume of information, choices, and demands leads to emotional paralysis. The song's hypnotic, repetitive structure, underscored by the lack of melodic variation, reinforces the claustrophobic nature of this sensory and emotional overload. 

Edge once explained the song’s inspiration as “a comment on feeling deadened to everything, overloaded,” reflecting the postmodern disillusionment and technological alienation that was central to Zooropa’s themes.

In a broader sense, "Numb" critiques the numbing effects of media saturation and a world where individual voice and feeling can get lost in a flood of external noise. 

By presenting these themes in a monotone, detached style, Edge gives voice to the apathy and disconnect that modernity can create, making the song not just a commentary but an experience of feeling numb itself.

"Numb" Song Lyrics by U2

Don't move
Don't talk out of time
Don't think
Don't worry
Everything's just fine
Just fine
Don't grab
Don't clutch
Don't hope for too much
Don't breathe
Don't achieve
Or grieve without leave
Don't check
Just balance on the fence
Don't answer
Don't ask
Don't try and make sense
Don't whisper
Don't talk
Don't run if you can walk
Don't cheat, compete
Don't miss the one beat
Don't travel by train
Don't eat
Don't spill
Don't piss in the drain
Don't make a will
Don't fill out any forms
Don't compensate
Don't cower
Don't crawl
Don't come around late
Don't hover at the gate
Don't take it on board
Don't fall on your sword
Just play another chord
If you feel you're getting bored

I feel numb
I feel numb
Too much is not enough
I feel numb
Don't change your brand
Gimme what you got
Don't listen to the band
Gimme what I don't get
Don't gape
Don't ape
Don't change your shape
Gimme some more
Have another grape
Too much is not enough

I feel numb
Gimme some more
A piece of me, baby
I feel numb

Don't plead
Don't bridle
Don't shackle
Don't grind
Gimme what I don't get
Don't curve
Don't swerve
Gimme some more
I feel numb
Lie, die, serve
I feel numb
Don't theorize, realise, polarise
Gimme what you got
Chance, dance,dismiss, apologise
Gimme what I don't get
Gimme what you got
Too much is not enough

I feel numb
Don't spy
Don't lie
Don't try
Imply
Detain
Explain
Start again
I feel numb
I feel numb
Don't triumph
Don't coax
Don't cling
Don't hoax
Don't freak
Peak
Don't leak
Don't speak
I feel numb
I feel numb

Don't project
Don't connect
Protect
Don't expect
Suggest
I feel numb
Don't project
Don't connect
Protect
Don't expect
Suggest
I feel numb
Gimme what you got

Don't struggle
Don't jerk
Don't collar
Don't work
Don't wish
Don't fish
Gimme what I don't get
I feel numb
Don't teach
Don't reach
Gimme some more
I feel numb
To much is not enough
I feel numb
Gimme what you got
Don't borrow
Don't break
Don't fence
Gimme what I don't get
I feel numb
Don't steal
Don't pass
Don't press
Don't try
Don't feel
Gimme some more
I feel numb
Don't touch
Don't dive
Don't suffer
Don't rhyme
Don't fantasize
Don't rise
Don't lie
I feel numb

Don't project
Don't connect
Protect
I feel numb
Don't expect
Suggest
Don't project
Don't connect
Protect
I feel numb
Don't expect
Suggest
I feel numb

-

The origins of "Numb" can be traced back to the Achtung Baby recording sessions, where it existed as an unfinished track initially titled "Down All the Days." During those sessions, the song took shape as a rough, experimental idea but didn't find its place on the album. 

The band, particularly the Edge, saw potential in its minimalist structure and mechanical rhythm, but it wasn't until Zooropa that it found its full expression. U2 was in a creative space where they were pushing the boundaries of their sound, exploring dissonance and fragmentation, and "Numb" fit perfectly into this context. 

Check out the lyrics to "Some Days Are Better Than Others" and "The First Time" both being from U2's eight album. 

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"Babyface" Song Lyrics by U2

In the context of Zooropa as an album, which explores themes of a dystopian, media-saturated future where technology, consumerism, and overload have replaced God and religion, "Babyface" stands out as a compelling example of U2’s storytelling. It captures the album's broader concept of a cyberpunk world where human connections are filtered through screens, creating a sense of isolation despite constant exposure to information and imagery.

It is a more playful and surreal song compared to the band's typical emotionally heavy material, yet it carries deeper layers of meaning beneath its surface. Bono has described the song as capturing a sense of obsession and fantasy, particularly in the context of the burgeoning media-saturated culture of the 1990s. The song tells the story of someone who becomes infatuated with a woman they see on television or through a screen—a "babyface" that embodies an idealized, unattainable beauty.

It's a reflection on how media and technology warp perceptions of reality, creating a divide between what we desire and what we can actually attain.

Lyrically, Bono plays with the idea of seduction through technology, with lines like "Watching your bright blue eyes in the freeze frame" a suggesting a voyeuristic relationship between the observer and the image on the screen.

It’s an almost tongue-in-cheek commentary on the growing influence of television and mass media, where people increasingly engage with idealized, curated versions of reality rather than real human connections. Bono himself has hinted that the song critiques the way people can fall in love with mere projections or fantasies, disconnected from the real world.

Bono’s lyrics in "Babyface" seem almost prophetic, predicting a world where young men might experience more intimacy through virtual experiences, such as online pornography, than through actual physical relationships.

"Babyface" Song lyrics by U2

Catching your bright blue eyes in the freeze frame
I've seen them so many times
I feel like I must be your best friend
You're looking fine, so fine, oh my
Dressed up like a lovely day

Babyface, babyface
Slow down child, let me untie your lace
Babyface, babyface
Cover girl with natural grace
How could beauty be so kind to an ordinary guy

Coming home late at night to turn you on
Checking out every frame
I got slow motion on my side
Turning around and around
With the sound and colour under my control
Round and around, going down
Dressed up like a lovely day

Babyface, babyface
Tinfoil hair all tied up in lace
Babyface, babyface
Bittersweet girl, won't you give me a taste
How could beauty be so kind to an ordinary guy

Babyface, babyface
Slow down child, let me untie your lace
Babyface, babyface
Open that door, let me unpack my case
Babyface, babyface
You're everywhere child, you're all over the place
Babyface, babyface
You're coming to me from outterspace
How could beauty be so kind to an ordinary guy

-

The song’s light, groove-heavy melody contrasts with the darker undertones of obsession and distance, creating a satirical take on how technology distorts relationships. It reflects U2’s exploration of identity, desire, and alienation in a world where screens mediate so much of human interaction. "Babyface" is a commentary on the fantasy world we create for ourselves—both seductive and superficial, where the lines between what’s real and what’s imagined blur, leaving us disconnected from genuine experience.

Check out more lyrics from Zooropa's songs  "Lemon"  and the very popular  "Stay (Faraway, So Close!)".   

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"Zooropa" song lyrics by U2

Zooropa is the first track off the album of the same name. It was released in 1993 as a companion piece follow up to Achtung Baby.

Zooropa's lyrics have a running theme of irony, tying in the "media overload" themes of the Zoo TV Tour into the context of a post-Berlin Wall Europe.

The meaning of the lyrics may become clear if you appreciate the context. U2 were still touring the Zoo TV road show and Achtung Baby - whilst deciding to record another album on err... the fly. 

Alors:

Bono is quoted on page 248 of U2 on U2 about the song:

"It was our attempt to create a world rather than just songs and it's a beautiful world. The opening was our new manifesto, I have no compass, I have no maps, and I have no reason to go back. Brian Eno was in his element here. The studio became an instrument, a playground, lots of plastic attack from his DX7 keyboard, lots of raised eyebrows from Larry and Adam. The opening was the audio equivalent of Blade Runner's visuals. If you closed your eyes you could see the neon, the giant LED screens advertising all manner of ephemera.

I wanted to get away from the weight of where I was going. I wanted to fly. There was enough melancholy around. And I have no religion, I don't know what's what. There is a line in the New Testament which says that the spirit moves and no one knows where it comes from or where it's going. It is like a wind. I have always felt that about my faith. Religion is often the enemy of God because it denies the spontaneity of the spirit and almost anarchistic nature of the spirit."

In crafting the lyrics for the song "Zooropa," Bono adeptly incorporated well-known advertising slogans to echo the album's overarching themes of technological influence and its dual nature in modern life. Phrases like "Better by design," "Be All That You Can Be," and "Vorsprung durch Technik" serve not only as catchy hooks but also as poignant reflections on how technology shapes our identities and perceptions. 

These slogans, emblematic of consumer culture, highlight the seductive allure of progress while simultaneously critiquing its isolating effects. By juxtaposing these commercial messages with the personal and societal struggles depicted in the lyrics, Bono underscores a paradox: technology has the power to connect us, yet it can also create barriers that distance us from one another. 

This tension between the promise of technology and the reality of human experience is a core element of "Zooropa," inviting listeners to reflect on the complexities of a world increasingly defined by its digital landscapes.

Still, this didn't stop Bono from investing in Facebook...

 "Zooropa" song lyrics by U2

What do you want?
What do you want?

Zooropa
Vorsprung durch Technik
Zooropa
Be all that you can be
Be a winner, eat to get thinner

Zooropa
A bluer kind of white
Zooropa
It could be yours tonight
We're mild and green and squeaky clean

What do you want
What do you want
Combien encore
What do you want
Que veux-tu faire
What do you want
Combien encore

Zooropa
Better by design
Zooropa
Fly the friendly skies
Through appliance of science we've got that ring of confidence

And I have no compass and I have no map
And I have no reasons, no resons to get back
And I have no religion and I don't know what's what
And I don't know the limit, the limit of what we got

Zooropa
Don't worry baby, it'll be alright
Zooropa
You've got the right shoes to get you through the night
Zooropa
It's cold outside but brightly lit
Zooropa
Skip the subway, let's go to the overground
Get your head out of the mud baby
Put flowers in the mud, baby, overground

No particular place names, no particular song
I've been hiding, what am I hiding from

Zooropa
Don't worry baby, it's gonna be alright
Zooropa
Uncertainty can be a guiding light
Zooropa
I hear voices, ridiculous voices
I'm in the slipstream
Zooropa
Let's go, let's go overground
Take your head out of the mud baby

She's gonna dream up the world she wants to live in
She's gonna dream out loud
Dream out loud
Dream out loud

-

The song "Zooropa" delves into complex existential themes, blending surreal imagery with incisive social critique. Bono paints a disorienting landscape that conveys feelings of alienation in an increasingly commercialized world. The lyrics evoke a sense of confusion and disconnection, suggesting that technological advancement often comes at the cost of genuine human experience. 

The song captures the chaotic, almost animalistic nature of contemporary life, where individuals risk becoming spectators in their own narratives. This duality—oscillating between hope and despair—invites listeners to reflect on the implications of their existence within a media-saturated environment. 

Ultimately, "Zooropa" serves as a powerful commentary on the human condition, urging us to navigate the complexities of modernity while remaining true to our innate desire for connection and authenticity.

How the music complements the theme of Zooropa

The music of "Zooropa" works synergistically with its themes, enhancing the lyrical exploration of disconnection and the complexities of modern life. The song features a blend of electronic elements and ambient soundscapes, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that mirrors the surreal and chaotic nature of the lyrics. The driving beat and pulsating synthesizers evoke a sense of urgency, reflecting the relentless pace of technological advancement and consumer culture.

According to The Edge, "Zooropa" emerged from a jam session during the recording of Achtung Baby, combining two separate musical ideas into a cohesive whole. This creative process is evident in the song's structure, which seamlessly shifts between different musical motifs, much like the juxtaposition of disparate themes in the lyrics. The dynamic interplay between the instruments creates a sense of tension and resolution, echoing the song's commentary on the paradox of connectivity and isolation.

As listeners navigate through the song's sonic landscape, they are drawn into a world that is both inviting and disorienting, encapsulating the essence of the Zooropa album. The Edge's innovative guitar work adds layers of texture, while Bono's vocal delivery oscillates between vulnerability and defiance, embodying the struggle to find authenticity amidst a sea of distraction. This musical interplay not only complements the thematic content but also enhances the overall emotional impact, inviting listeners to engage with the complexities of their own experiences in an increasingly mediated world.

Check out the lyrics to "Babyface"  and The Edge heavy  "Numb".

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