Iris (Hold Me Close) song lyrics by U2

Tuesday, September 9, 2014
U2 album cover larry and his son
Iris should not be confused with the popular 1990's song 'Iris' by the Goo Goo Dolls

You could be forgiven for this though as that song also appeared on the City of Angels soundtrack with U2's If God Will Send his Angels.

Iris is directly inspired by Bono's mother, Iris Hewson. Bono has previously referenced Iris in Tommorrow from the October album.

The song contains contains a cute reference to Kraftwerk. Bono said 'My mother [died] just as I was discovering girls. One of the girls I was discovering was Ali... she arrived at Mount Temple in the same month. The first lover’s gift I gave Ali was a Kraftwerk album called The Man Machine. So I referred to that.' with the line "It was you made me your man/Machine.’

Songs of Innocence was released, through sheer coincidence, 40 years to the day that Iris died.

Bono also noted to Rolling Stone Magazine that he was later inspired to rewrite part of the song after being deeply moved by the late ISIS hostage James Foley's letter to his family. "I realized," Bono says, "that we will all be remembered, and we remember our loved ones, by the least profound moments. The simplest moments. In the letter he says to his brother, 'I remember playing werewolf in the dark with you.'

Iris (Hold Me Close)  song lyrics by U2

The star that gives us light
Has been gone a while
But it’s not an illusion
The ache in my heart
Is so much a part of who I am

Something in your eyes
Took a thousand years to get here
Something in your eyes
Took a thousand years, a thousand years

Hold me close
Hold me close and don’t let me go
Hold me close
Like I’m someone that you might know
Hold me close
The darkness just lets us see
Who we are
I’ve got your life inside of me

Iris, Iris

Once we are born
We begin to forget
The very reason we came
But you I’m sure I’ve met
Long before the night
The start went out
We’re meeting up again

Hold me close
Hold me close and don’t let me go
Hold me close
Like I’m someone that you might know
Hold me close
The darkness just lets us see
Who we are
I’ve got your life inside of me

Iris, Iris

The start are bright
But do they know
The universe is beautiful but cold
You took me by the hand
I thought that I was leading you
But it was you made me your man
Machine, I dream where you are
Iris standing in the hall
She tells me I can do it all
Iris wakes to my nightmare
Don’t fear the world
It isn’t there

Iris playing on the strand
She buries the boy beneath the sand
Iris says that I will be the death of her
It was not me

Iris, Iris
She said free yourself to be yourself
If only you could see yourself
Free yourself to be yourself
If only you could see

-

The song, steeped in emotional vulnerability, reveals Bono’s persistent grappling with the absence of maternal presence in his life. Through the repetition of the phrase “Hold me close,” Bono reflects the deep-seated desire for closeness, both physical and emotional, that never had the chance to mature due to his mother’s early death. The verses are laced with rich imagery, from the “freezing rain” that mirrors the numbness of loss, to the light his mother represents, a beacon guiding him through the darkness. The juxtaposition of grief and longing with the ethereal imagery of light and stars creates a tension that underscores the paradox of losing someone so intimately tied to your sense of self, yet still feeling them in every corner of your existence.

The song also functions as an exploration of memory’s power to both heal and haunt. 

Bono navigates the complex terrain of reconciling his life without Iris, while acknowledging the indelible mark she left on his spirit. In lines like “The ache in my heart is so much a part of who I am,” there’s an acceptance that his pain and identity are inextricably linked. The Edge’s shimmering guitar work, with its delicate reverb, serves as an echo of that emotional longing, almost as if the music is searching for resolution, much like Bono’s heart. 

U2 have written a of songs which make references to parents. A notable effort was Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own from the  All That You Can't Leave Behind album.

California (There Is No End To Love) song lyrics by U2

In "California (There Is No End to Love)," U2 presents a lyrical homage to the West Coast, but more deeply, it's a meditation on the paradoxes of love, grief, and the passage of time. The recurring chant of "Barbara, Santa Barbara" invokes a dreamlike, Beach Boy riffing connection to the spiritual and the earthly—Santa Barbara as both a place and an ethereal figure of protection. 

It frames the song in a repetitive, almost hypnotic refrain, echoing the timelessness Bono is grasping for. The song’s core sentiment, “There is no end to love,” serves as an emotional anchor in a sea of personal upheaval. In the imagery of California’s natural beauty—Zuma Beach, blood orange sunsets—the lyrics transcend the romanticization of place to instead address the healing and pain found in love’s endurance. 

When Bono sings of "watching you cry like a baby," there's an intimate juxtaposition of vulnerability and renewal, as if California itself is the witness and balm to human suffering.

California (There Is No End To Love) song lyrics by U2California (There Is No End To Love) song lyrics by U2

Yet, this is no simple ode to love or loss. 

The song deftly explores the shadows that linger beneath the California dream, where "everyone’s a star" but stardom can corrode the soul, dimming the light of individuality. Bono hints at the self-reflection and alienation of stardom, as mirrored in “your bedroom, in a mirror, watching yourself cry.” 

It's a telling critique of fame's emptiness, reminding us that love is the only real antidote to such grief. In the line “I’ve seen for myself, there’s no end to grief, that’s how I know there’s no end to love,” Bono conflates sorrow and affection in a cosmic, inseparable dance—where grief and love are boundless, eternal. These words seem to reassure, affirming that the very act of feeling deeply, whether joy or sorrow, proves love’s permanence. 

And in true U2 fashion, what starts as a personal reflection unfurls into something more universal, a spiritual truth that, as always, finds its way home to love.

California (There Is No End To Love) song lyrics by U2

Barbara, Santa Barbara
Barbara, Santa Barbara
Barbara, Santa Barbara
Barbara, Santa Barbara
Barbara, Santa Barbara
Barbara, Santa Barbara
Barbara, Santa Barbara
Barbara, Santa Barbara
Barbara, Santa Barbara
Barbara, Santa Barbara

California
Then we fell into the shining sea
Well, that’s what took me
Where I need to be
Which is here, out on Zuma
Watching you cry like a baby
California, at the dawn
You thought would never come
But it did like it always does

All I know
And all I need to know
Is there is no end to love

I didn’t call you
Words can scare a thought away
Everyone’s a star in our town
It’s just your light gets dimmer
If you have to stay
In your bedroom, in a mirror
Watching yourself cry like a baby
California, blood orange sunset
Brings you to your knees
I’ve seen for myself
There’s no end to grief
That’s how I know

That’s how I know
And why I need to know
That there is no
Yeah, there is no end to love
All I know and all I need to know
Is there is no
Yeah, there is no end to love

Barbara, Barbara
There is no end to love

All I know and all I need to know
Is there is no
Yeah, there is no end to love
We come and go
But stolen days you don’t give back
Stolen days are just enough

Produced by: Declan Gaffney, Paul Epworth and Danger Mouse and taken from the Songs of Innocence album.

The Miracle (of Joey Ramone) song lyrics by U2

The Miracle is the first song from U2's album Songs of Innocence.

It's an ode to U2's love of the Ramones, a band they consider very influential on the themselves. U2 have previously covered Beat on the Brat by the Ramones and the song, In a Little While from All That You Can't Leave Behind was also dedicated to Joey Ramone following his death.

The Miracle (of Joey Ramone) song lyrics by U2

Marky Ramone, a longtime Ramones Drummer said of the track 'I’m very grateful U2 wrote a song about my former friend and bandmate Joey Ramone. Joey would have been honored. It is well-deserved.'

The song was produced by three players Danger Mouse, Paul Epworth and Ryan Tedder.

The Miracle (of Joey Ramone) song lyrics by U2

Joey Ramone singing in a leather jacket
Joey Ramone
I was chasing down the days of fear
Chasing down a dream before it disappeared
I was aching to be somewhere new
Your voice was all I heard
I was shaking from a storm in me
Haunted by the spectors that we had to see
Yeah, I wanted to be the melody
Above the noise, above the herd

I was young, not dumb
Just wishing to be blinded
By you, brand new
And we were pilgrims on our way

I woke up at the moment when the miracle occurred
Heard a song that made some sense out of the world
Everything I ever lost now has been returned
The most beautiful sound I ever heard

We've got language so we can communicate
Religion so I can love and hate
Music so I can exaggerate my pain
And give it a name

We can hear, we can hear
We can hear, ooh

I woke up at the moment when the miracle had come
I get so many things I don't deserve
All the stolen voices may some day be returned
The most beautiful sound I ever heard

And your voices will be heard
And your voices will be heard

Check out the lyrics to The Troubles, also from Songs of Innocence.

'This Is Where You Can Reach Me Now' song lyrics by U2

Tuesday, February 25, 2014
This song is from U2's new Songs of Innocence album. It ss dedicated to the gone but never forgotten Joe Strummer, and 'celebrates The Clash spirit of passion and purposefulness'.

In "This Is Where You Can Reach Me Now," U2 draws heavily from the punk ethos of rebellion and resistance, with lyrics that capture a generational call to arms, echoing the spirit of The Clash. 

Bono’s invocation of "Soldier, soldier / We signed our lives away" reveals a metaphorical enlistment into a cause bigger than oneself—a surrender not to traditional warfare but to a lifelong battle for meaning, truth, and justice. The imagery of complete surrender as "the only weapon we know" speaks to the band's immersion in the world of activism and idealism, where their chosen struggle is waged not with violence but with music and conviction. 

There's a sense of lost innocence and irrevocable change in "we knew the world would never be the same," reflecting how The Clash shaped U2's early vision—a vision that was less about being “cool” and more about channeling the energy of punk into something constructive, something transformative.

'This Is Where You Can Reach Me Now' song lyrics by U2

The lyrics carry a sense of disillusionment, especially in the exchanges with the "Old man," who represents a kind of weary pragmatism. "Old man knows how to cheat ambition / You don’t lose if you don’t play" reflects a generational divide, where youthful defiance butts up against the cynical wisdom of experience. 

Yet U2 chooses to "take the path of most resistance," a reference to their decision to rebel not just against authority but against complacency itself, embracing the difficult road of social change and artistic integrity. 


'This Is Where You Can Reach Me Now' song lyrics by U2


Soldier, soldier

We signed our lives away

Complete surrender
The only weapon we know
Soldier soldier
We knew the world would never be the same
Solider, this is where you can reach me now

We come from an ancient place
Beyond what we can see
We’ve come to colonise your night
And steal your poetry

Old man knows that I never listen
So how could I have something to say
Old man knows how to cheat ambition
You don’t lose if you don’t play

1 2 3 4 was enough

Soldier, soldier
We signed our lives away
Complete surrender
The only weapon we know
Soldier soldier
We knew the world would never be the same
Solider, this is where you can reach me now

In a double decker bus
Into College Square
If you won’t let us in your world
Your wold just isn’t there
If you won’t let us in your world
Your world just isn’t there

Old man says that we never listen
We shout about what we don’t know
We’re taking the path of most resistance
The only way for us to go

Hup 2 3 4 was enough

Soldier, soldier
We signed our lives away
Complete surrender
The only weapon we know
Soldier soldier
We knew the world would never be the same
Solider, this is where you can reach me now

This is the site
This is the season
This is where you can reach me now
This is the time
This is the number
This is where you can reach me now

Check out the lyrics to The Troubles which is also from Songs of Innocence.

"The Troubles" song lyrics by U2

The Troubles is a song by U2 that can be found as the closing track of Songs of Innocence.

U2 delves into the haunting dynamics of domestic violence, a theme that Bono has described as "uncomfortable." 

The lyrics, marked by repetition and a haunting refrain, reflect a deep exploration of violation and the insidious erosion of self that often accompanies abusive relationships. 

The line "Somebody stepped inside your soul" serves as a chilling metaphor for emotional invasion, suggesting a loss of autonomy as the abuser takes control. 

The imagery of theft—"Little by little they robbed and stole"—evokes a gradual but profound dismantling of one's identity, echoing the experience of victims who find themselves unwittingly transformed by the torment of another. This encroachment into the inner sanctum of the soul not only speaks to the immediacy of violence but also to the psychological scars that linger long after the physical wounds have healed.

Lykke Li "The Troubles" song lyrics by U2

Bono's lyrics convey a palpable tension between vulnerability and resilience, particularly in the stark declaration, "I have a will for survival." This assertion underscores the struggle for agency in the face of relentless pain, encapsulating the push and pull of hope and despair. 

The line "I can live with denial, but you’re not my troubles anymore" illustrates a pivotal moment of self-assertion, suggesting that the speaker has reached a critical juncture where acknowledgment and acceptance intersect. The concluding lines, where the narrator proclaims their nakedness and lack of shame, symbolize a powerful reclamation of selfhood. 

This reclamation, coupled with the realization that they no longer identify with the troubles imposed by another, culminates in an empowering statement of liberation. U2, through the poignant craftsmanship of their lyrics, not only sheds light on the harrowing realities of abuse but also offers a glimmer of hope for healing and self-discovery.

In a rare move the song features Swedish indie singer-songwriter Lykke Li as a lead singer.

She said of the opportunity to appear on the album, that Danger Mouse texted her saying Hey, do you want to sing on a U2 track?'" to which she responded "Yeah, I don't know. Sure.' It was a random question to ask."

Li also said "The song already has so much depth to it, you don't even need to fully understand what the lyrics are about to understand it in your soul and heart."

"The Troubles" song lyrics by U2

Somebody stepped inside your soul
Somebody stepped inside your soul
Little by little they robbed and stole
Till someone else was in control

You think it’s easier
To put your finger on the trouble
When the trouble is you
And you think it’s easier
To know your own tricks
Well, it’s the hardest thing you’ll ever do

I have a will for survival
So you can hurt me
And then hurt me some more
I can live with denial
But you’re not my troubles anymore

Somebody stepped inside your soul
Somebody stepped inside your soul
Little by little they robbed and stole
Till someone else was in control

Somebody stepped inside your soul
Somebody stepped inside your soul
Little by little they robbed and stole
Till someone else was in control

You think it’s easier
To give up on the trouble
If the trouble is destroying you
You think it’s easier
But before you throw me a rope
It was the one thing I could hold on to

I have a will for survival
So you can hurt me
And then hurt me some more
I can live with denial
But you’re not my troubles anymore

Somebody stepped inside your soul
Somebody stepped inside your soul
Little by little they robbed and stole
Till someone else was in control

Somebody stepped inside your soul
Somebody stepped inside your soul
Little by little they robbed and stole
Till someone else was in control

Got knows it’s not easy
Taking on the shape of someone else’s pain
Got now you can see me
I’m naked and I’m not afraid
My body’s sacred and I’m not ashamed

Somebody stepped inside your soul
Somebody stepped inside your soul
Little by little they robbed and stole
Till someone else was in control

Somebody stepped inside your soul
Somebody stepped inside your soul
Little by little they robbed and stole
Till someone else was in control

Check out the lyrics to Every Breaking Wave and The Miracle from the same album.

* U2's song Ito Okashi from the Passengers days featured Japanese singer Akiko Kobayashi and of course, the Grammy Award winning Zooropa featured the late and great Johnny Cash on The Wanderer.

What lyrics has the Edge written for U2?

Sunday, December 22, 2013

The Edge is known as U2's guitarist however he is really Bono's other half.


He is the Richard to Bono's Jagger, the John to Bono's Paul. But enough with the cliche's - the two are a song writing partnership that has prospoered both within and without U2.

For instance they are both credited as writing the Spider Man musical, Turn off the Dark and Golden Eye for Tina Turner which featured in the James Bond film of the same name.

Whilst Bono contributes the majority of U2's lyrics and is the front man for the band, the Edge has quietly whiled his time away, contributing some great lines of verse.

Songs written by The Edge.
This is the Edge!


Here's three of the Edge's well known songs and lyrics where he has been separated from his writing partner:

Numb

"Numb" from the Grammy Award winning album Zooropa is perhaps the Edge's most popular song where he wrote the majority of the lyrics.

 Featuring himself talking in a dull and disturbing monotone that would make David Duchovny proud, the Edge covers a random amount of territory advising the listener to not 'speak but suggets' and refrain from 'pissing in the drain'.


One of U2's defining political songs, the song had its origins in the now famous riff written by The Edge and some lyrics he put together and the song grew from there.

Van Diemen's Land

The lyrics to this song where from an inspired Edge after learning of the story of a Fenian poet named John Boyle O'Reilly, who was deported to Australia because of his poetry. And probably for being a Fenian.

He probably stole some pigs or something too.

The track itself is from Rattle and Hum.

'Invisible' lyrics by U2

Thursday, December 19, 2013
Invisible is the song title of a new U2 song, their first since the 2013 release of Ordinary Love.

Described as an 'anthemic number about leaving one's hometown', Bono’s lyrics reflect a journey from obscurity to visibility, capturing the longing to break free from the past and the desire to assert one's individuality. 

Invisible song lyrics by U2

The refrain "I'm more than you know, I'm more than you see here" speaks to a universal struggle for recognition, particularly among those who feel marginalized or overlooked. 

This idea is amplified by the song’s association with (RED), U2’s long-standing AIDS awareness initiative, where the act of making the invisible visible takes on broader humanitarian implications.

Invisible song lyrics by U2

It’s like the room just cleared of smoke
I didn’t even want the heart you broke
It’s yours to keep
You just might need one

I finally found my real name
I won’t be me when you see me again
No, I won’t be my father’s son

I’m more than you know
I’m more than you see here
More than you let me be
I’m more than you know
A body in a soul
You don’t see me but you will
I am not invisible

That's right
I’ll be in the invisible world

I don’t dream, not as such
I don’t even think about you that much
Unless I start to think at all

All those frozen days
And your frozen ways
They melt away your face like snow

I’m more than you know
I’m more than you see here
I’m more than you let me be
I’m more than you know
A body in a soul
You don’t see me but you will
I am not invisible
I am here

There is no them
There is no them
There’s only us
There’s only us
There is no them
There is no them
There’s only us
There’s only us
There is no them
There is no them
There’s only you
And there’s only me
There is no them

Invisible is yet another Bono lyric that features a reference to his Father, check out the discussion at Mothers and Fathers.

U2's songs lyrics written about Africa and its people

Friday, October 18, 2013
Bono, the lead singer of U2, has long been an impassioned advocate for Africa, a commitment that has significantly shaped his and the band's endeavors over the years. This deep-seated affinity for the continent is rooted in his profound concern for social justice and human rights, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by African nations. 

Bono's love for Africa has manifested through various initiatives and collaborations that aim to raise awareness and provide support for urgent issues such as poverty, disease, and political instability.

A notable expression of this commitment is seen in U2's music and lyrics. Songs like "Where the Streets Have No Name" and "Bullet the Blue Sky" are reflections of Bono's experiences and observations in Africa, encapsulating themes of struggle, injustice, and the resilience of the human spirit. Beyond their music, Bono and U2 have been actively involved in advocacy and fundraising. 

Bono co-founded the ONE Campaign and (RED), initiatives that focus on combating AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and extreme poverty in Africa. These efforts have mobilized public support and secured funding and policy commitments from governments and private entities.

bono in africa

Moreover, Bono's engagements with political leaders and appearances at high-profile events, such as the Live 8 concert, have been instrumental in bringing African issues to the forefront of global discourse. He has consistently used his platform to call for debt relief, fair trade practices, and increased aid for African countries, influencing policy decisions and public opinion.

U2's concerts often serve as platforms for advocacy, where visuals and messages about African issues are integrated into their performances, further amplifying their humanitarian message. Bono's personal visits to African countries, interacting with local communities and leaders, demonstrate his genuine commitment to understanding and advocating for the continent's needs and aspirations.

In essence, Bono's love for Africa is a multifaceted endeavor, extending from U2's artistic expression to significant political and humanitarian activism. This enduring commitment highlights the potential of art and celebrity influence in addressing global challenges and fostering a sense of shared responsibility and action.

Here's some songs with lyrics that thematically tie to Africa. 

"Ordinary Love," a non-album track by U2, holds a special place in the band's discography for its role in promoting the film "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom." This song was intricately crafted to complement the film's narrative, which tells the poignant and powerful story of Nelson Mandela's journey from his early years as a political activist to his long imprisonment and eventual rise to the presidency of South Africa.

The track's lyrical themes of resilience, love, and the struggle for freedom resonate deeply with the spirit of Mandela's life and the broader fight against apartheid. U2's connection with Mandela's story and the anti-apartheid movement dates back to the 1980s, reflecting their long-standing commitment to human rights and social justice.

"Ordinary Love" captures this dedication, blending emotive lyrics with a melody that underscores the film's dramatic and inspirational storyline. The band's involvement in the project not only highlights their ability to connect music with significant historical events but also underscores their role as artists who consistently engage with and reflect upon the socio-political issues of their time.

Speaking of apartheid:

Silver and Gold

A stirring anti-apartheid song by U2, is a powerful musical protest against the oppressive regime in South Africa during the late 20th century.

 Collaboratively written with musician Little Steven, the song is an emotive outcry against the brutal system of apartheid that inflicted immense suffering upon the South African people. The track's raw energy and poignant lyrics encapsulate the spirit of resistance and the demand for justice and equality. It reflects U2's long-standing commitment to political and social issues, using their art as a platform to raise awareness and inspire change. 

The song's title, "Silver and Gold," symbolically contrasts the material wealth and exploitation associated with the apartheid regime against the invaluable human rights denied to many South Africans. This song was not just a musical piece but a part of a larger movement, contributing to the global pressure on the South African government to end its discriminatory policies.

"Silver and Gold" stands as a testament to the power of music to cross borders and unite people in solidarity against injustice, embodying the band's enduring legacy as advocates for human rights and equality.

Where the Streets Have No Name

Inspired by Bono's experiences in Africa during the early 1980s, ''Streets'' offers a unique juxtaposition of themes reflecting U2's origins in Belfast, Ireland, and the complex socio-political landscape of Africa. 

This song's lyrical content skillfully intertwines the band's personal history with the broader narrative of conflict and division, drawing parallels between the religious and sectarian divides in Belfast and the struggles witnessed in Africa. 

In Belfast, where one's religion and associated identity could often be inferred from the neighborhood they lived in, U2 members experienced firsthand the deep-rooted tensions and divisions that shaped their early lives and perspectives. When Bono ventured into Africa, he was confronted with different but equally profound challenges and disparities, which deeply influenced his worldview and artistic expression. 

This song captures the essence of these experiences, highlighting the universal themes of division, identity, and the longing for unity and peace. Through its lyrics, the track not only reflects on the band's personal journey from the streets of Belfast but also extends to embrace a global perspective, resonating with the common struggles and aspirations of people across different continents. 



This song, from How to Dismantle An Atomic Bomb, delves into the complex and often imbalanced relationship between Western countries and developing nations, particularly in Africa. The song's lyrics poignantly address this dynamic from the perspective of those living in the developing world, underscoring the stark contrast between the West's emphasis on long-term socioeconomic strategies and the immediate, pressing needs for basic sustenance in less affluent nations. Through vivid imagery and emotive storytelling, Bono captures the essence of a relationship characterized by unequal exchanges and unmet promises. 

The metaphor of 'crumbs from your table' powerfully symbolizes the minimal aid and attention that wealthier nations often extend, which, although beneficial, is insufficient and sometimes patronizing. 

The song's verses and chorus convey a sense of urgency and a call for deeper understanding and meaningful support, rather than superficial or temporary solutions. By highlighting this disparity, U2 not only critiques the inadequacies of global aid systems but also encourages listeners to reflect on the broader implications of international relations and our collective responsibility towards global equity and justice. "Crumbs from Your Table" thus stands as a poignant commentary on the realities of global inequality, showcasing U2's enduring commitment to shedding light on pressing social issues through their music.

Don't Give Up (Africa) 

 A compelling cover by Bono and Alicia Keys, originally recorded by Peter Gabriel and Kate Bush. 

This rendition breathes new life into the classic song, transforming it into a powerful anthem for hope and perseverance in the face of Africa's ongoing challenges. The collaboration between Bono, known for his longstanding commitment to African issues, and Alicia Keys, an artist equally passionate about social justice, infuses the song with a deep sense of empathy and solidarity. Their version maintains the emotional depth and resonance of the original, while also bringing a fresh perspective that highlights the struggles and resilience of the African continent. 

The choice of this particular song, with its message of not giving in to despair, aligns perfectly with Bono and Keys' humanitarian efforts. It serves as a call to action, urging the global community to remain committed to supporting Africa in its journey towards stability, health, and prosperity. The merging of their distinctive voices in this track not only creates a beautiful musical piece but also symbolizes the potential for collaboration and unity in addressing global issues. "Don't Give Up (Africa)" stands as a testament to the power of music as a tool for awareness, inspiration, and change, showcasing how artists can use their platforms to make a significant impact on the world.

'Soon' song lyrics by U2

Thursday, October 17, 2013

U2’s song "Soon" has an interesting and somewhat elusive history within their discography. Originally developed during the sessions for No Line on the Horizon (2009), "Soon" was part of a broader set of tracks that were held for the proposed album Songs of Ascent, a project that remains unreleased. 

The song first appeared as the introductory music for U2’s 360° Tour, debuting in Barcelona in June 2009, where it was known as the "Kingdom Intro" or "Kingdom of Your Love" on set lists. This early association with themes of kingdom and love hinted at spiritual and transcendent ideas, which are common throughout U2’s later work.

The song was officially released as a 7-inch single included in the deluxe version of U2 360° at the Rose Bowl DVD, now titled “Soon.” In terms of lyrical and thematic content, the song evokes feelings of longing and anticipation, which align with the intended themes of Songs of Ascent. Bono himself described Songs of Ascent as a “stained-glass window” of a record, with “Soon” representing the more ambient, reflective qualities of this batch of material. The song’s reflective mood and elegiac tone mirror the band’s exploration of spirituality, love, and mortality during this era, as seen in tracks like "Every Breaking Wave" and "North Star," which were part of the same creative sessions.

'Soon' song lyrics by U2

Soon, soon
Soon, soon
Soon, soon

Sing yourself on down the street
Sing yourself right off your feet
Sing yourself away from victory
And from defeat

Sing yourself with fife and drum
Sing yourself to overcome
The thought that someone has lost
And someone else has won

Soon
Soon, soon
Soon, soon
Soon, soon

Ordinary Love lyrics by U2 - song from Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

U2 have written and recorded a song titled "Ordinary Love" for the film, Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom.

The film is based on  Nelson Mandela's autobiography of the same name.

U2 have been long term supporters of the people of South Africa, the break down of apartheid and of course Nelson Mandela so it's no surprise they've lent their song to the movie.

Nelson Mandela's "Ordinary Love" lyrics by U2

U2 have written a couple of songs for Africa - Silver and Gold and very famously Where the Streets Have No Name.

Of the song's meaning itself Bono noted "It's a plea for common decency among the people who've been oppressed and it's a plea for common decency in a marriage as it starts to fall apart.

In 2014 U2 won their second Golden Globe for Best Original Song from a Motion Picture for this song.

In 2003 they won for song "The Hands That Build America".

'Ordinary Love' song lyrics by U2

The sea wants to kiss the golden shore
The sunlight warms your skin
All the beauty that's been lost before wants to find us again

I can't fight you any more, it's you I'm fighting for
The sea throws rock together but time leaves us polished stones

We can't fall any further
If we can't feel ordinary love
And we can't reach any higher,
if we can't deal with ordinary love

Birds fly high in the summer sky and rest on the breeze.
The same wind will take care of you and I.
We'll build our house in the trees.

Your heart is on my sleeve
Did you put it there with a magic marker?
For years I would believe that the would couldn't wash it away

'cause

We can't fall any further
If we can't feel ordinary love
and we can't reach any higher

Are we tough enough for ordinary love?

We can't fall any further,if
We can't feel ordinary love
And we can't reach any higher,
if we can't deal with ordinary love

ordinary love mandela u2 art

"Ordinary Love," written and recorded by U2 for the film Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, captures the profound yet often overlooked beauty of love in the face of adversity. The song reflects themes of resilience, unity, and the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom, echoing the struggles depicted in Nelson Mandela’s autobiography. 

U2 has long been a vocal advocate for the people of South Africa and has actively supported the fight against apartheid, making their contribution to this film both timely and deeply meaningful. 

The lyrics evoke a sense of vulnerability and hope, celebrating the enduring nature of love amidst the turmoil and challenges that Mandela and his fellow South Africans faced. Through "Ordinary Love," U2 honors the spirit of Mandela, illustrating how love can transcend ordinary circumstances and become a powerful force for change in the quest for justice and equality.
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