Rolling Stone ranks all U2 album-leadoff singles
6 reported
Rolling Stone published a ranking of all leadoff singles from U2’s studio albums, timed to the release of the band’s new single “Street of Dreams” from their forthcoming album. The ranking considered both the quality of each song and how well it set the stage for its respective album. The list includes singles from 1980’s “A Day Without Me” through 2017’s “You’re the Best Thing About Me.” The article notes that the quality of a leadoff single does not always match the quality of the album. The ranking is based on the outlet’s judgment calls and is presented as a single-source analysis.
What’s reported
U2 released “Street of Dreams” as the leadoff single from their forthcoming studio album, slated for release later this year.
The band’s previous LP, Songs of Experience, came out nearly nine years ago, marking the longest gap between studio albums.
Rolling Stone ranked all leadoff singles from U2’s prior albums, accounting for song quality and how well each set the stage for its album.
The lowest-ranked single is “Get On Your Boots” (2009), described as not as memorable as similar songs.
The highest-ranked single is “With or Without You” (1987), which the public first heard on Jan. 30, 1986, on the Irish show TV Gaga as a tune called “Womanfish.”
Other singles ranked include “Beautiful Day” (2000), “New Year’s Day” (1983), “Pride (In the Name of Love)” (1985), “Vertigo” (2004), and “Desire” (1988).
Key figures
U2 (band)
Bono (lead singer, quoted in 2006 about “Fire”)
The Edge (guitarist, performed “Numb”)
Adam Clayton (bassist)
Brian Eno (producer)
Daniel Lanois (producer)
Luciano Pavarotti (guest on “Miss Sarajevo”)
James Henke (former Rolling Stone editor)
Phil Joanou (director of Rattle and Hum)
Sources: Rolling Stone
