Since their inception, U2 have developed and maintained a distinctly recognisable sound, with emphasis on melodic instrumentals and expressive, larger-than-life vocals. This approach is rooted partly in the early influence of record producer Steve Lillywhite at a time when the band was not known for musical proficiency. The Edge has consistently used a rhythmic echo and a signature delay to craft Read more...

Social and political commentary, often embellished with Christian religious and spiritual imagery, are a major aspect of U2's lyrical content. Songs like "Sunday Bloody Sunday" and "Mothers of the Disappeared" were motivated by current events of the time. The former was written concerning the troubles in Northern Ireland while the latter described the plight of the mothers of kidnapped Argentinians Read more...

The band cites The Who, The Clash,, Ramones, The Beatles, Joy Division, Siouxsie & the Banshees and Patti Smith as influences. Other musicians and bands such as Snow Patrol, The Fray, OneRepublic, Coldplay, The Academy Is..., The Killers, Your Vegas, Angels & Airwaves and Thriving Ivory have in turn been influenced by the work of U2. Cover versions of U2 songs have been made by performers Read more...