Alex P Keaton
Footballguy
Such great comments. Couldn’t possibly add to this. I was at 79 but could easily be 20-30 slots higher.
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U2 - Community rankings - FIN - #4 Sunday Bloody Sunday, #3 - One, #2 - Bad, #1 - Where the Streets Have No Name -Spotify links, thanks to Krista4 (4 Viewers)
- Thread starter John Maddens Lunchbox
- Start date
Alex P Keaton
Footballguy
I wish this song had one more verse. Seems like it got cut short. Despite that, I deeply enjoy this song albeit in more of a sweet melancholy way. The Vulture writeup nails it IMO. “Every…..one but……you…..”. Makes me think of my grandparents, who have all passed away. Especially both grandfathers, one who died before I was born, the other in my grade school days. Makes me sad……didn’t get to know either one as an adult.
Oh, and my daughter loves this song, for basically the same reasons. She told me that it “hits her soul.” I really love this kid. Always true, but sometimes she says stuff that just makes me
.
Nemesis
Footballguy
And i'm one of the 25's !!! (my Top25 bubble has been burst
)Agreed.........really surprised that this didn't make it onto TUF......and s/h/b released as a TUF single.
Love the driving bassline on this one
And i posted this back in NOV when the song first come up:
Did you know? There were 2 or 3 versions of Love Comes Tumbling (depending on the time length):
The original is called "Studio Version - False Start" and is timed at ~4:52
The other versions are called: "Studio Version - No False Start" and is timed at ~4:46. (This version is a few seconds shorter, due to a number of beats being cut out of the introduction to the song after the false start.)
Here is a link to one of the False Start versions: Link (When i heard this, I remembered this.....anyone else remember?)
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Nemesis
Footballguy
if we have any new viewers to the thread, I want to encourage them go back & read some of the interesting Songfacts/Background related to songs ranked 100 & above:
(96) > 199 - Treasure (Whatever Happened to Pete the Chop?) U2's manager Paul McGuinness & executives, heard it as a potential big hit & wanted to include it on the Boy album. But, the band disagreed & refused to put it out claiming that it was too “poppy,”.
(116) > 198 -Another Day was only released in Ireland to coincide w a concert at Dublin Stadium. After the concert, U2 signed an international contract.
(156) > 178 - Get on Your Boots original title was "Four Letter Word"....then renamed "Sexy Boots".....and finally "Get on Your Boots". An early unfinished version of the video had unobstructed shots of topless models. (hint: The final version obscured them)
(128) - > #131 - Ordinary Love ..................released less than a wk before Mandela died. Lost Academy Award to Frozen's "Let it Go"
(127) - > #123 - Ground Beneath Her Feet almost made it onto ATYCLB.....but instead used on Million Dollar Hotel soundtrack
(90) - > #120 - Yahweh Edge had the music planned 1st....Bono added the lyrics/vocals spontaneously during the 1st take.
(132) - > #113 - I Threw a Brick Through a Window Larry was exhausted & had trouble keeping the tempo during recording. Apparently, Edge stayed in the studio & recorded some drum parts of his own.
(88) - > #112 - Invisible raised over $3m for charity. Check out the Tonight Show performance on the 70th floor atop 30 Rock
(107) - > #111 - Salome was part of the early AB demo that got leaked to the public (if you want more info, click the link).
(119) - > #110 - Last Night on Earth started during Zooropa, but was brought back at 4am on the last night of recording Pop
(107) - > #109 - Original of The Species started out as a song for Edge's daughter. Almost cracked the Top40 in the US.
(109) - > #106 - Breathe......................developed by the Edge. Song was remixed 80 times during the album sessions
(93) - > #105 - Promenade Lanois got Bono to sing quieter rather than scream by increasing the volume of his vocals in his headphones
(53) - > #101 - Trash trampoline and the Party Girl created in a mad rush when they needed a B-side for "A Celebration."
it is the most frequently performed b-side in U2's live history
(115) - > #100 - Helter Skelter The original song was really about a roller coaster at a popular British amusement park in the late 60's called "The Helter Skelter". U2 makes it seem less about the ride & more about race war, drugs
(96) > 199 - Treasure (Whatever Happened to Pete the Chop?) U2's manager Paul McGuinness & executives, heard it as a potential big hit & wanted to include it on the Boy album. But, the band disagreed & refused to put it out claiming that it was too “poppy,”.
(116) > 198 -Another Day was only released in Ireland to coincide w a concert at Dublin Stadium. After the concert, U2 signed an international contract.
(156) > 178 - Get on Your Boots original title was "Four Letter Word"....then renamed "Sexy Boots".....and finally "Get on Your Boots". An early unfinished version of the video had unobstructed shots of topless models. (hint: The final version obscured them)
(128) - > #131 - Ordinary Love ..................released less than a wk before Mandela died. Lost Academy Award to Frozen's "Let it Go"
(127) - > #123 - Ground Beneath Her Feet almost made it onto ATYCLB.....but instead used on Million Dollar Hotel soundtrack
(90) - > #120 - Yahweh Edge had the music planned 1st....Bono added the lyrics/vocals spontaneously during the 1st take.
(132) - > #113 - I Threw a Brick Through a Window Larry was exhausted & had trouble keeping the tempo during recording. Apparently, Edge stayed in the studio & recorded some drum parts of his own.
(88) - > #112 - Invisible raised over $3m for charity. Check out the Tonight Show performance on the 70th floor atop 30 Rock
(107) - > #111 - Salome was part of the early AB demo that got leaked to the public (if you want more info, click the link).
(119) - > #110 - Last Night on Earth started during Zooropa, but was brought back at 4am on the last night of recording Pop
(107) - > #109 - Original of The Species started out as a song for Edge's daughter. Almost cracked the Top40 in the US.
(109) - > #106 - Breathe......................developed by the Edge. Song was remixed 80 times during the album sessions
(93) - > #105 - Promenade Lanois got Bono to sing quieter rather than scream by increasing the volume of his vocals in his headphones
(53) - > #101 - Trash trampoline and the Party Girl created in a mad rush when they needed a B-side for "A Celebration."
it is the most frequently performed b-side in U2's live history
(115) - > #100 - Helter Skelter The original song was really about a roller coaster at a popular British amusement park in the late 60's called "The Helter Skelter". U2 makes it seem less about the ride & more about race war, drugs
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krista4
Footballguy
Love all these! Thank you again for such cool background.
Just to clarify, a Helter Skelter is a slide, not a roller coaster. And it's not something that was just at one park, but is a generic term for this type of slide at numerous parks.
ETA: Here are some pics.
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Nemesis
Footballguy
Songs 90-99:
(126) - > #99 - All Along the Watchtower only U2 would learn the chords 5 mins before they went on-stage, play it live & record it for R&H.
(86) - > #98 - An Cat Dubh Bono's lyrics may have been inspired by a relationship he had after a falling-out w his girlfriend, Ali.
(79) - > #96 - I Fall Down was played live 15 times at the end of the Boy tour before reworking for October album. Original title was "When I Fall Down"
(97) - > #95 - Electrical Storm about the relationship between his good friend Michael Hutchence & his then wife/girlfriend & about their stormy relationship. Only reached #77 in the US.....but charted well in almost every other country (incl several #1s)
(59) - > #94 - Dirty Day Many of the lyrics are taken fr phrases that Bono's father would use, including "I don't know you & you don't know the half of it", "No blood is thicker than ink", "Nothing's as simple as you think", & "It won't last kissing time."
(143) - > #93 - Drowning Man speculation is that the "Drowning Man" is probably U2 bass player Adam Clayton
(113) - > #92 - Twilight The line, "In the shadow boy meets man" was interpreted by some fans to be about homosexuality. While U2 did not intend it that way, songs like "Twilight" & "Stories For Boys" earned them a large gay following. (so did having a photo of a shirtless 7 yr old on the cover)
(126) - > #99 - All Along the Watchtower only U2 would learn the chords 5 mins before they went on-stage, play it live & record it for R&H.
(86) - > #98 - An Cat Dubh Bono's lyrics may have been inspired by a relationship he had after a falling-out w his girlfriend, Ali.
(79) - > #96 - I Fall Down was played live 15 times at the end of the Boy tour before reworking for October album. Original title was "When I Fall Down"
(97) - > #95 - Electrical Storm about the relationship between his good friend Michael Hutchence & his then wife/girlfriend & about their stormy relationship. Only reached #77 in the US.....but charted well in almost every other country (incl several #1s)
(59) - > #94 - Dirty Day Many of the lyrics are taken fr phrases that Bono's father would use, including "I don't know you & you don't know the half of it", "No blood is thicker than ink", "Nothing's as simple as you think", & "It won't last kissing time."
(143) - > #93 - Drowning Man speculation is that the "Drowning Man" is probably U2 bass player Adam Clayton
(113) - > #92 - Twilight The line, "In the shadow boy meets man" was interpreted by some fans to be about homosexuality. While U2 did not intend it that way, songs like "Twilight" & "Stories For Boys" earned them a large gay following. (so did having a photo of a shirtless 7 yr old on the cover)
Nemesis
Footballguy
Songs 80-89
(29) - > #89 - A Celebration released in UK & throughout Europe plus Japan, Australia & New Zealand. There was no release in North America. The video was shot at Kilmainham Gaol, a jail in Dublin.
(140) - > #88 - Miracle Drug written about Christopher Nolan who was a pupil at Mount Temple (as the band was leaving) who was paraplegic
(104) - > #86 - Van Diemens Land Edge thought he was writing about someone who was sent to Tasmania (Van Diemens Land), but it turns out the real John Boyle O'Reilly was actaully sent to Fremantle, Western Australia. Oops-sie! Oh well, nice try Edge......but the story is still a compelling read.
(52) - > #84 - In a Little While Bono's simple little tune was originally about stumbling home after a night out drinking & facing the inevitable hangover to come. The song took on a new meaning when Joey Ramone died of cancer in 2001; the singer was a huge U2 fan, & he had been listening to “In a Little While” in the hospital during his final moments.
(117) - > #81 - Love Comes Tumbling was first released as a B-side to Unforgettable Fire single....but most people remember it from the U2 EP Wide Awake in America. As mentioned above, check out the "false start" audio version
(29) - > #89 - A Celebration released in UK & throughout Europe plus Japan, Australia & New Zealand. There was no release in North America. The video was shot at Kilmainham Gaol, a jail in Dublin.
(140) - > #88 - Miracle Drug written about Christopher Nolan who was a pupil at Mount Temple (as the band was leaving) who was paraplegic
(104) - > #86 - Van Diemens Land Edge thought he was writing about someone who was sent to Tasmania (Van Diemens Land), but it turns out the real John Boyle O'Reilly was actaully sent to Fremantle, Western Australia. Oops-sie! Oh well, nice try Edge......but the story is still a compelling read.
(52) - > #84 - In a Little While Bono's simple little tune was originally about stumbling home after a night out drinking & facing the inevitable hangover to come. The song took on a new meaning when Joey Ramone died of cancer in 2001; the singer was a huge U2 fan, & he had been listening to “In a Little While” in the hospital during his final moments.
(117) - > #81 - Love Comes Tumbling was first released as a B-side to Unforgettable Fire single....but most people remember it from the U2 EP Wide Awake in America. As mentioned above, check out the "false start" audio version
krista4
Footballguy
Oops.
I had "You're the Best Thing about Me" at #78, missing a bingo by one slot. Guess I liked it but not enough to remember that I did. I just relistened. Nice, enjoyable pop song. Nothing memorable...apparently.
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Alex P Keaton
Footballguy
Do we have to take back any celebratory thoughts we had on your behalf? I was genuinely happy for you for “hitting a bingo.” Not sure how to feel now…..Oops.
simey
Footballguy
The video motivated me to see when it was shot. I remembered that Bono broke his arm in NYC riding a bike, and I wondered if it was around the same time, but he broke his arm three years earlier.Oops.
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Pip's Invitation
Footballguy
I believe my cassette copy of Wide Awake in America had the false start.And i'm one of the 25's !!! (my Top25 bubble has been burst
Agreed.........really surprised that this didn't make it onto TUF......and s/h/b released as a TUF single.
Love the driving bassline on this one
And i posted this back in NOV when the song first come up:
Did you know? There were 2 or 3 versions of Love Comes Tumbling (depending on the time length):
The original is called "Studio Version - False Start" and is timed at ~4:52
The other versions are called: "Studio Version - No False Start" and is timed at ~4:46. (This version is a few seconds shorter, due to a number of beats being cut out of the introduction to the song after the false start.)
Here is a link to one of the False Start versions: Link (When i heard this, I remembered this.....anyone else remember?)
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
(90) - > 78 - Miss Sarajevo
90 - 78 - Miss Sarajevo Radio Edit
Vulture.com ranking and comment -22/218 - This was a side project the band did with Brian Eno, where U2 was meant to be the backing band under the direction of Eno. But “Miss Sarajevo” has become more identified with U2 because of the story behind it, which is another one of those serendipitous U2 legends: During the Zooropa tour, when MacPhisto was still making phone calls from the stage, he called Luciano Pavarotti from the stage in Bologna. After that, Pavarotti got in touch with the band, wanting to record a song together. Bono came up with “Miss Sarajevo,” a song about the the siege of Sarajevo and the response of the Bosnians under attack, one of which was a beauty contest. Sarajevo was also the city that U2 had made satellite contact with during Zoo TV. All of this is wrapped inside this elegant duet between Bono and Luciano Pavarotti.
Original Comment - This may be dismissed cause its not U2, but it is on the Passngers for a reason, it is brave for Bono’s vocal limitations be exposed by Pavarotti. But then again whose vocal limitations wouldnt be exposed by Pavarotti. Soaring. And no im not the highest ranker. Close behind it though.
Total Points - 306.50
Rankers - 10
Average Points per rank - 30.65 (Approximately a 65th rank).
Ranks - 44th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 18
Lowest Rank - 98
Previous Rank - 90 > 78
Special Version Requested - 90 - 78 - Miss Sarajevo Radio Edit
Ranking Comments - This is the second song to have all its rankings in the top 100. We have 3 ranking inside the top 25. 3 more inside the top 50. Radio Edit feels forced, but 2 rankers clearly requested.
90 - 78 - Miss Sarajevo Radio Edit
Vulture.com ranking and comment -22/218 - This was a side project the band did with Brian Eno, where U2 was meant to be the backing band under the direction of Eno. But “Miss Sarajevo” has become more identified with U2 because of the story behind it, which is another one of those serendipitous U2 legends: During the Zooropa tour, when MacPhisto was still making phone calls from the stage, he called Luciano Pavarotti from the stage in Bologna. After that, Pavarotti got in touch with the band, wanting to record a song together. Bono came up with “Miss Sarajevo,” a song about the the siege of Sarajevo and the response of the Bosnians under attack, one of which was a beauty contest. Sarajevo was also the city that U2 had made satellite contact with during Zoo TV. All of this is wrapped inside this elegant duet between Bono and Luciano Pavarotti.
Original Comment - This may be dismissed cause its not U2, but it is on the Passngers for a reason, it is brave for Bono’s vocal limitations be exposed by Pavarotti. But then again whose vocal limitations wouldnt be exposed by Pavarotti. Soaring. And no im not the highest ranker. Close behind it though.
Total Points - 306.50
Rankers - 10
Average Points per rank - 30.65 (Approximately a 65th rank).
Ranks - 44th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 18
Lowest Rank - 98
Previous Rank - 90 > 78
Special Version Requested - 90 - 78 - Miss Sarajevo Radio Edit
Ranking Comments - This is the second song to have all its rankings in the top 100. We have 3 ranking inside the top 25. 3 more inside the top 50. Radio Edit feels forced, but 2 rankers clearly requested.
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
(42) - > 77 - Every Breaking Wave
42 - 77 - Every Breaking Wave (Intimate Version)
Vulture.com ranking and comment -131/218 - Bono has often said that while he might not understand certain things in the world, he understands relationships, and writes about them with empathy and nuance. He’s also drawn to using the sea as metaphor, which works here. The choruses are bright and impassioned.
Original Comment - Bye Bye Songs of Innocence. Nice album track. May be a grower with more time. Surprisingly for a newer track I am equal lowest on it. I prefer 6 other tracks on this album to this one. Its a nice song and all, but it lacks a spark.
Total Points - 308.80
Rankers - 14
Average Points per rank - 22.06 (Approximately a 100th rank).
Ranks - 56th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 13
Lowest Rank - 149
Previous Rank - 42 > 77
Special Version Requested - 42 - 77 - Every Breaking Wave (Intimate Version
Ranking Comments - 4 top 50 entries and 7 other top 100 entries. The intimate version is much better than the studio version imho. I specifically requested it after stumbling across it in youtube. It lifted significantly from where i had it last time due to it as my original comment still stands.
42 - 77 - Every Breaking Wave (Intimate Version)
Vulture.com ranking and comment -131/218 - Bono has often said that while he might not understand certain things in the world, he understands relationships, and writes about them with empathy and nuance. He’s also drawn to using the sea as metaphor, which works here. The choruses are bright and impassioned.
Original Comment - Bye Bye Songs of Innocence. Nice album track. May be a grower with more time. Surprisingly for a newer track I am equal lowest on it. I prefer 6 other tracks on this album to this one. Its a nice song and all, but it lacks a spark.
Total Points - 308.80
Rankers - 14
Average Points per rank - 22.06 (Approximately a 100th rank).
Ranks - 56th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 13
Lowest Rank - 149
Previous Rank - 42 > 77
Special Version Requested - 42 - 77 - Every Breaking Wave (Intimate Version
Ranking Comments - 4 top 50 entries and 7 other top 100 entries. The intimate version is much better than the studio version imho. I specifically requested it after stumbling across it in youtube. It lifted significantly from where i had it last time due to it as my original comment still stands.
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
(85) - > 76 - Iris (Hold Me Close)
Vulture.com ranking and comment -65/218 - Bono has written about his mother since the very early days of U2 — “I Will Follow” is directly about her death and its impact on him at the age of 14 — and by extension, Bono becoming Bono is directly a result of the impact of that loss on him. “Iris” is, however, a song from today, the grown-up Bono reflecting back. It is almost a frayed nerve end, and will make anyone who’s lost a parent at any age get a bit misty.
Original Comment - Now this is a killer track. Paces itself well, changes pace naturally and has a dynamite chorus. Obviously another track about Bonos mother. I am glad another ranker had this in their top 50 to go with my top ranking.
Total Points - 312.35
Rankers - 10
Average Points per rank - 31.35 (Approximately a 62nd rank).
Ranks - 44th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 23
Lowest Rank - 148
Previous Rank - 85 > 76
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - 5 top 33 rankings pushes this track higher than last time. 3 others between 63 and 68. I think this is a beautifully constructed and emotional song.
Vulture.com ranking and comment -65/218 - Bono has written about his mother since the very early days of U2 — “I Will Follow” is directly about her death and its impact on him at the age of 14 — and by extension, Bono becoming Bono is directly a result of the impact of that loss on him. “Iris” is, however, a song from today, the grown-up Bono reflecting back. It is almost a frayed nerve end, and will make anyone who’s lost a parent at any age get a bit misty.
Original Comment - Now this is a killer track. Paces itself well, changes pace naturally and has a dynamite chorus. Obviously another track about Bonos mother. I am glad another ranker had this in their top 50 to go with my top ranking.
Total Points - 312.35
Rankers - 10
Average Points per rank - 31.35 (Approximately a 62nd rank).
Ranks - 44th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 23
Lowest Rank - 148
Previous Rank - 85 > 76
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - 5 top 33 rankings pushes this track higher than last time. 3 others between 63 and 68. I think this is a beautifully constructed and emotional song.
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John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
Next up 3 more songs from this century. Previously our most amount of rankers is 14, next up we see one with 15 rankers and a 17 rankers song. It is the highest amount of rankers until #61. It only has one ranking in the top 40, but has 15 rankings between 42 and 104.
Alex P Keaton
Footballguy
I don’t think this was on my list……which is an oversight. Really enjoyable song. This is why I like the U2 rankings discussions……helps me reconnect with songs I overlook!!
bigbottom
Footballguy
27 for me. This song grabbed me from the first time I heard it. To me, it is one of those tunes that sounds simultaneously like 80s U2 and modern U2. Vintage Edge guitar arrangements providing the foundation for an impassioned Bono vocal.
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bigbottom
Footballguy
#37 for me. A beautiful song with an incredible melody. I like the original better than the intimate version, but will say that the intimate version demonstrates how incredible Bono’s voice is. For me, it’s a jaw-dropping vocal performance. But I don’t like the piano part as a replacement for the lush arrangement of the original.
Nemesis
Footballguy
I had Every Breaking Wave at #31......and Iris right behind it at #32
From our original Countdown, i wrote: "when SOI was released, I didn't really give Iris much notice....to me, It got buried. But now that I've got the background info & listened to it objectively on its own merit, i can say that it has really grown on me.....maybe more than any so far."
Iris should have been released as a SOI single, as it's that good of a song.......instead they choose to release The Miracle (of Joey Ramone) as a single.
From our original Countdown, i wrote: "when SOI was released, I didn't really give Iris much notice....to me, It got buried. But now that I've got the background info & listened to it objectively on its own merit, i can say that it has really grown on me.....maybe more than any so far."
Iris should have been released as a SOI single, as it's that good of a song.......instead they choose to release The Miracle (of Joey Ramone) as a single.
Nemesis
Footballguy
SONGS 76-79
(90) - > 78 - Miss Sarajevo: very compelling info on this song (see these 2 links)
APK inf on the documentary film Miss Sarajevo American journalist Bill Carter suggested to Bono an idea to film a documentary based on Sarajevo's underground resistance movement.
Nemesis follow up info on Bill Carter
(42) - > 77 - Every Breaking Wave originally intended for 2009 NLOTH album. Re-configured in 2013 after Ryan Tedder was brought on as a co-producer for SOI. Check out the another version w a String section
(85) - > 76 - Iris (Hold Me Close) Bono's mother, Iris Hewson, died in 1974 when the singer was 14 after suffering a brain aneurysm at her own father's funeral. He recounts how the loss of his mother at such a young age shaped his life.
Iris in concert (note the starry background & film footage)
(90) - > 78 - Miss Sarajevo: very compelling info on this song (see these 2 links)
APK inf on the documentary film Miss Sarajevo American journalist Bill Carter suggested to Bono an idea to film a documentary based on Sarajevo's underground resistance movement.
Nemesis follow up info on Bill Carter
(42) - > 77 - Every Breaking Wave originally intended for 2009 NLOTH album. Re-configured in 2013 after Ryan Tedder was brought on as a co-producer for SOI. Check out the another version w a String section
(85) - > 76 - Iris (Hold Me Close) Bono's mother, Iris Hewson, died in 1974 when the singer was 14 after suffering a brain aneurysm at her own father's funeral. He recounts how the loss of his mother at such a young age shaped his life.
Iris in concert (note the starry background & film footage)
krista4
Footballguy
This song has the honor of being the first that was on my list but lower than the consensus rank, having had it at #98. It has a mellow almost spooky ambience that I enjoy, but - lukewarm take alert! - I think I'd like the song better without Pavarotti. It's so jarring to me when he comes in. I get it, though; if you get a chance to create music with one of the best vocalists of the modern world, you do it, and I can see why they thought the collaboration would lead to something cool.
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krista4
Footballguy
Drat. I lose my #25.
There's nothing I don't love in this song, but I'd single out the way the chorus breaks in so huge as my favorite part. Every time I hear "If you go" and then the instruments responding, I gasp at how gorgeous it is. Love the whole chorus in particular. I think Bono sounds phenomenal, and this song has particularly good lyrics as well.Wow on the intimate version. Gave me chills. I still prefer the lushness of the original, but that is an excellent companion version...well, until he gets unnecessarily breathy on the second chorus.
krista4
Footballguy
Brony
Footballguy
Songs of Innocence clocks in at #12 album based on the math from my song rankings. Looking back, I basically enjoyed Song for Someone (#16), Iris Hold Me Close (#46) and Every Breaking Wave (#57). I had one more song in the top 100 -California and then the rest get into some big numbers.
I never felt like that album was polarizing as much as some of the experimental albums - I just found a lot of Innocence to be pretty bland. Not as bland as some of the later REM albums, but just in a spot where I'll never love it nor hate it. Iris and Breaking Wave are good songs though.
I never felt like that album was polarizing as much as some of the experimental albums - I just found a lot of Innocence to be pretty bland. Not as bland as some of the later REM albums, but just in a spot where I'll never love it nor hate it. Iris and Breaking Wave are good songs though.
Nemesis
Footballguy
Ok, I’ve seen people talk about someone w a high rank on a song & ask:
“I’d like to hear from the #High Ranker# WHY they ranked this song so high”
well…..I’d like to hear why someone ranked this at #148 ? (No judgement, just want to hear the other side)
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krista4
Footballguy
I ranked 115 songs, and a few dozen more made my first cut. This wasn't one of them, so even though I'm not the #148, it would probably end up at best around that spot for me if I'd ranked more. I've listened to it a couple more times today to see if I'd change my mind, since several people who liked my #25 song, Every Breaking Wave, also ranked this one highly. But I still am not taken with this song and find it meandering. The vocals irritate me, especially the "harmonies" that sound more like random connections of notes than true harmonies to me. Also I found the lyrics trite, though learning now that the song is for his dead mom makes me appreciate them more. I do enjoy the guitar work. Overall I think it's a perfectly fine song, but just not something that grabs me at all.
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Alex P Keaton
Footballguy
Very similar. Also didn’t make my rankings. You articulated it better than I could have. Mrs APK, speaking grudgingly about a U2 song, said “Every Breaking Wave is really good. Was that a newer song (meaning was that post-Achtung, aka in the past 3 decades)?” She then continued, referencing Iris (since we listened to them back to back) “yeah, that’s fine but any band could have done that song. Except maybe a little bit of the guitar part is Edge. Honestly if you hadn’t told me, and it was just on in the background while I was cooking, it could have just as easily been Coldplay.”krista4 said:
edit to add: apologies for the Coldplay reference. Just quoting Mrs APK
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John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
We havent heard from our #148 ranker yet.....some people ere happy just to do lists and run away. They had a fairly reasonable list. There are only a few way out there rankings among the 40, but i wont be calling them out,Nemesis said:
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
(44) - > 75 - Get Out of Your Own Way
Vulture.com ranking and comment - Not Listed
Original Comment - 3 great tracks out of 4 to open the Songs of Experience album is a fantastic start. Doesnt continue but goes to show that U2 can still do good music. Many don’t have an open mind about the newer stuff and thats fine, but there are some good songs in there. This one is beautifully constructed and a more mature sound. No surprise that I have the highest ranking. Bono really seems to understand his instrument these days and its so much more effective. Love the Mike Tyson paraphrase quote “ She had a plan until she got a smack in the mouth”
Total Points - 317.50
Rankers - 11
Average Points per rank - 28.86(Approximately a 70th rank).
Ranks - 46th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 20
Lowest Rank - 115
Previous Rank - 44 > 75
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - We have 6 top 50 rankings here, including a 20 and 21. 4 more in the top 100.:All 3 songs today drop from our previous rankings....probably cause they are newer.
Vulture.com ranking and comment - Not Listed
Original Comment - 3 great tracks out of 4 to open the Songs of Experience album is a fantastic start. Doesnt continue but goes to show that U2 can still do good music. Many don’t have an open mind about the newer stuff and thats fine, but there are some good songs in there. This one is beautifully constructed and a more mature sound. No surprise that I have the highest ranking. Bono really seems to understand his instrument these days and its so much more effective. Love the Mike Tyson paraphrase quote “ She had a plan until she got a smack in the mouth”
Total Points - 317.50
Rankers - 11
Average Points per rank - 28.86(Approximately a 70th rank).
Ranks - 46th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 20
Lowest Rank - 115
Previous Rank - 44 > 75
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - We have 6 top 50 rankings here, including a 20 and 21. 4 more in the top 100.:All 3 songs today drop from our previous rankings....probably cause they are newer.
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
(60) - > 74 - All Because of You
Vulture.com ranking and comment -57/218 - “A love song to the Who” is how Bono introduced this the day U2 played underneath the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s also a song about origins, and mothers, and the divine female — and sure, fine, good. But listen to the Edge peeling Townshend-ian riffs off of his guitar, Larry hitting the drums with crisp precision, Adam playing a secondary melody, and it can just be a love song to rock and roll.ii
Original Comment - Straght ahead rocker. Borderline boring to me. Surprised me when it was released as a single, but this is how some want U2 to sound. I dont have to like it though. It does its job well and somehow I ended up second highest rank on this, despite my indifference to it.
Total Points - 334.75
Rankers - 17
Average Points per rank - 19.69 Approximately a 61st rank).
Ranks - 117th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 29
Lowest Rank - 128
Previous Rank - 60 > 74
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - Our first 17 ranker song. No one really hates it, although 3 of the rankings are over 100. Apart from the 29 ranking, no one thinks it is worthy of top 40. At this stage of the countdown i want passion not “its ok i guess”
Vulture.com ranking and comment -57/218 - “A love song to the Who” is how Bono introduced this the day U2 played underneath the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s also a song about origins, and mothers, and the divine female — and sure, fine, good. But listen to the Edge peeling Townshend-ian riffs off of his guitar, Larry hitting the drums with crisp precision, Adam playing a secondary melody, and it can just be a love song to rock and roll.ii
Original Comment - Straght ahead rocker. Borderline boring to me. Surprised me when it was released as a single, but this is how some want U2 to sound. I dont have to like it though. It does its job well and somehow I ended up second highest rank on this, despite my indifference to it.
Total Points - 334.75
Rankers - 17
Average Points per rank - 19.69 Approximately a 61st rank).
Ranks - 117th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 29
Lowest Rank - 128
Previous Rank - 60 > 74
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - Our first 17 ranker song. No one really hates it, although 3 of the rankings are over 100. Apart from the 29 ranking, no one thinks it is worthy of top 40. At this stage of the countdown i want passion not “its ok i guess”
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
(68) - > 73 - Magnificent
Vulture.com ranking and comment -71/218 - The key line to this song is in the second verse, where Bono sings about his first cry being a joyful noise. U2 aren’t working Bible references into their songs accidentally, and if you circle up to the top of the verse: “I was born to sing with you.” Extend that further to the first verse: “I was born to be with you.” Bono could be talking about a lover or he could be talking about the audience — or both.
Original Comment - Another song that almost moves up a level, but just held back. The fact I am second highest ranker surprises me, but I rank it at #86. The 25 ranking puts it this high overall.
Total Points - 338.40
Rankers - 15
Average Points per rank - 22.56 Approximately a 55th rank).
Ranks - 96th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 19
Lowest Rank - 108
Previous Rank - 68 > 73
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - We have a 19 and a 30, then just like with All Because of You, 11 between 44 and 92. I think this is the stage of the countdown where we get volume of rankers, but not the passion behind the songs.
Vulture.com ranking and comment -71/218 - The key line to this song is in the second verse, where Bono sings about his first cry being a joyful noise. U2 aren’t working Bible references into their songs accidentally, and if you circle up to the top of the verse: “I was born to sing with you.” Extend that further to the first verse: “I was born to be with you.” Bono could be talking about a lover or he could be talking about the audience — or both.
Original Comment - Another song that almost moves up a level, but just held back. The fact I am second highest ranker surprises me, but I rank it at #86. The 25 ranking puts it this high overall.
Total Points - 338.40
Rankers - 15
Average Points per rank - 22.56 Approximately a 55th rank).
Ranks - 96th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 19
Lowest Rank - 108
Previous Rank - 68 > 73
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - We have a 19 and a 30, then just like with All Because of You, 11 between 44 and 92. I think this is the stage of the countdown where we get volume of rankers, but not the passion behind the songs.
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
We will see our first song next upmwith a top 5 ranking....I think. After loitering in the the last 2 decades for most of the 70s, we finish the 70s back in the 1980s, including 2 early in the decade. As an aside we have 5 rankings in a row coming with exactly 14 rankers.
The next group of 3 after that leaps forward a decade primarily.
The next group of 3 after that leaps forward a decade primarily.
Last edited by a moderator:
Pip's Invitation
Footballguy
Pip's Invitation
Footballguy
I had it at 63. I think it's their best post-Dismantle song, and No Line probably would have been better received if this had been the first single instead of Get on Your Boots. I've always seen this song as a successful update of the Achtung sound. All four members are very strong here.
simey
Footballguy
I had to check my list to JML to see if I ranked this song, and I did rank it at #48. I thought I did, but I also thought I ranked Every Breaking Wave, and I did not. I like the feel of the song. My favorite part is when Bono screams, and Edge does a solo right after.
foxco
Footballguy
The link is the short version - for me the opening minute or so in the full version makes the song;
Magnificent full
It's such a cool build. They used the opening in a World Cup commercial in 2010 with Bono narrating and it was just perfect. Goose bump material for me.
For me, the rest of the song doesn't quite measure up to the opening, but I still dig it. I had it at 51 I believe, which feels about right I guess. We're getting into some real fun ones now.
krista4
Footballguy
#79 on my list. I think it's a really fresh sound for them. If it weren't for Bono's distinctive voice, I could be convinced this was from an entirely different band (not Coldplay).
krista4
Footballguy
#53 on my list and probably should have bumped it down a bit. I can understand the "borderline boring" comment. But I really enjoy the propulsion and rocking messiness, and I agree with simey as to the best part of the song.
krista4
Footballguy
#66 for me, and I agree with foxco's comments regarding the build. Bono sounds outstanding on this song, and I especially love the way he comes in on the verses. It's a sexy sound.
krista4
Footballguy
krista4, Esq. here, demanding a recount on behalf of my client, "Every Breaking Wave." I have affidavits from individuals by the names of Alex P Keaton and simey that they unintentionally left off this song. My client should not have to suffer due to their negligence.
simey
Footballguy
Alex P Keaton
Footballguy
Pip's Invitation
Footballguy
As a remedy vis a vis the countdown is not available, I award it 1 squillion Spotify plays.
krista4
Footballguy
I've consulted with my client, and we are willing to accept eleventy squillion Spotify plays to settle this matter. Otherwise, we are going to court and seeking punitive damages!!111oneone
Anarchy99
Footballguy
4th of July (the holiday, not the U2 song). Celebrating the birth of a nation. Red, white, and blue. Baseball, hot dogs, apple pie, and Chevrolet. Parades, fireworks, cook outs, and pool parties.
As a proud American, I will be spending the holiday . . . in beautiful downtown Dublin. Will see what U2 means to the Irish from their own backyard. I will report here on anything interesting.
As a proud American, I will be spending the holiday . . . in beautiful downtown Dublin. Will see what U2 means to the Irish from their own backyard. I will report here on anything interesting.
Pip's Invitation
Footballguy
Irish beer is WAY stronger than American beer, even when it’s the same brand.
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
(67) - > 72 - A Day Without Me
Vulture.com ranking and comment -When Boy came out, this was the track where you thought, “Hey, someone has been listening to Tom Verlaine.” That’s hardly a diss — it’s not like bands doing that were exactly thick on the ground — and the Edge’s ability to translate what he heard and make it his own is one of the hallmarks of U2. Bono deserves some credit for the purchase of the Memory Man echo unit that creates the soaring arpeggios on this track and “11 O’Clock Tick Tock.”
Original Comment - The run of my second highest rankings comes to an end, with surprise surprise an old track. It’s a nice album track.
Total Points - 354.30
Rankers - 14
Average Points per rank - 25.31 (Approximately a 50th rank).
Ranks - 83rd on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 22
Lowest Rank - 154
Previous Rank - 67 > 72
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - 7 top 50 rankings, with only one in the top 25. One of those early songs that people know, but like without overly fawning over it.
Vulture.com ranking and comment -When Boy came out, this was the track where you thought, “Hey, someone has been listening to Tom Verlaine.” That’s hardly a diss — it’s not like bands doing that were exactly thick on the ground — and the Edge’s ability to translate what he heard and make it his own is one of the hallmarks of U2. Bono deserves some credit for the purchase of the Memory Man echo unit that creates the soaring arpeggios on this track and “11 O’Clock Tick Tock.”
Original Comment - The run of my second highest rankings comes to an end, with surprise surprise an old track. It’s a nice album track.
Total Points - 354.30
Rankers - 14
Average Points per rank - 25.31 (Approximately a 50th rank).
Ranks - 83rd on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 22
Lowest Rank - 154
Previous Rank - 67 > 72
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - 7 top 50 rankings, with only one in the top 25. One of those early songs that people know, but like without overly fawning over it.
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
(89) - > 71 - Surrender
Vulture.com ranking and comment- As a story, “Surrender” is more linear than anything else on War; it was a song Bono had actually written, as opposed to improvised in the studio. It is particularly sympathetic to its protagonist, and was a definite counterpoint to how women appeared in other songs of the time. The band contributes a solidly constructed soundtrack that feels like the hustle and bustle of a big city, and the tension of one person trying to find or fight their way through. The Edge’s chromatic chords are just lovely.
Original Comment - Another excellent development song showcasing their future direction. Surprisingly I have the second highest ranking on an old U2 song.
Total Points - 363.75
Rankers - 14
Average Points per rank - 25.98 (Approximately a 49th rank).
Ranks - 80th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 20
Lowest Rank - 123
Previous Rank - 89 > 71
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - Only 5 top 50 rankings, but all are inside 38. Another 7 in the top 100. This one rises from last time, which I think is fair. Its a fairly well developed early song.
Vulture.com ranking and comment- As a story, “Surrender” is more linear than anything else on War; it was a song Bono had actually written, as opposed to improvised in the studio. It is particularly sympathetic to its protagonist, and was a definite counterpoint to how women appeared in other songs of the time. The band contributes a solidly constructed soundtrack that feels like the hustle and bustle of a big city, and the tension of one person trying to find or fight their way through. The Edge’s chromatic chords are just lovely.
Original Comment - Another excellent development song showcasing their future direction. Surprisingly I have the second highest ranking on an old U2 song.
Total Points - 363.75
Rankers - 14
Average Points per rank - 25.98 (Approximately a 49th rank).
Ranks - 80th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 20
Lowest Rank - 123
Previous Rank - 89 > 71
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - Only 5 top 50 rankings, but all are inside 38. Another 7 in the top 100. This one rises from last time, which I think is fair. Its a fairly well developed early song.
John Maddens Lunchbox
Footballguy
(70) - > 70 - Love Rescue Me
Vulture.com ranking and comment -60/218 - The song’s backstory is how it earned its place on the album: Bono woke up one morning with a song in his head, but he wasn’t sure if it was one of his songs, or one of Bob Dylan’s songs. So he calls Bob and goes to his house in Malibu, where he sings the song to Dylan. Dylan says, “No, it’s not one of mine — but it could be,” and the two of them collaborate to finish the lyrics. One of the five songs recorded in five hours at Sun Studios, the Memphis Horns are the best part of the song, transforming it into countrified soul; Dylan is singing background vocals somewhere in the mix, and there’s allegedly a version with lead vocals that wasn’t used, so there was no conflict with the Traveling Wilburys. It’s the flip side, really, of “Hawkmoon 269,” the dressed-up-for-church version. It’s not a bad song by any means, but there were stronger contenders that ended up as B-sides. You can’t put a co-write with Bob Dylan on a B-side.
Original Comment - Somehow I ended up as the highest ranker here breaking my run of second highest ranker. The version I have in my head has BB King singing it. Must have been a live version i attended in 89 or my imagination running riot. Edit - found the show i was at https://youtu.be/3J9MONcV4gsIm not a lyrical person, but even i notice how good they are here. That Dylan influence? Sung and performed well
Total Points - 370.75
Rankers - 14
Average Points per rank - 26.48 (Approximately a 49th rank).
Ranks - 76th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 5
Lowest Rank - 183
Previous Rank - 70 > 70
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - Thats a bingo! All this effort and this song stays in the same position. We also crack our first? Top 5 ranking. It also has an 18, 27 and 28. No other one in the top 55 though. 7 others in the top 100 though,
Vulture.com ranking and comment -60/218 - The song’s backstory is how it earned its place on the album: Bono woke up one morning with a song in his head, but he wasn’t sure if it was one of his songs, or one of Bob Dylan’s songs. So he calls Bob and goes to his house in Malibu, where he sings the song to Dylan. Dylan says, “No, it’s not one of mine — but it could be,” and the two of them collaborate to finish the lyrics. One of the five songs recorded in five hours at Sun Studios, the Memphis Horns are the best part of the song, transforming it into countrified soul; Dylan is singing background vocals somewhere in the mix, and there’s allegedly a version with lead vocals that wasn’t used, so there was no conflict with the Traveling Wilburys. It’s the flip side, really, of “Hawkmoon 269,” the dressed-up-for-church version. It’s not a bad song by any means, but there were stronger contenders that ended up as B-sides. You can’t put a co-write with Bob Dylan on a B-side.
Original Comment - Somehow I ended up as the highest ranker here breaking my run of second highest ranker. The version I have in my head has BB King singing it. Must have been a live version i attended in 89 or my imagination running riot. Edit - found the show i was at https://youtu.be/3J9MONcV4gsIm not a lyrical person, but even i notice how good they are here. That Dylan influence? Sung and performed well
Total Points - 370.75
Rankers - 14
Average Points per rank - 26.48 (Approximately a 49th rank).
Ranks - 76th on average points per ranker
Highest Rank - 5
Lowest Rank - 183
Previous Rank - 70 > 70
Special Version Requested - None
Ranking Comments - Thats a bingo! All this effort and this song stays in the same position. We also crack our first? Top 5 ranking. It also has an 18, 27 and 28. No other one in the top 55 though. 7 others in the top 100 though,
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