U2's significant career far exceeds that of most average successful rock bands, with a prolific output of thirteen well-received studio albums and a sometimes relentless touring schedule. The band is famous for uniquely drawing together music, art, faith, and activism, all within a lucrative career that has given each of these elements an unusual degree of social and cultural resonance. Broad-minded musically and intellectually, U2's output is thematically rich, addressing a slew of topics, from questions of faith to anxieties about commercialism to outright political statements. 505 0 $a Growing up in Ireland -- Innocence and idealism -- Into the arms of America -- Irony and theatricality -- Rage can only take you so far -- New horizons -- Faith and art -- Social engagement. |