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The Joshua Tree 1987
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The Joshua Tree

The sound of The Joshua Tree, released on March 9, 1987, marks a turning point in the career of U2. Produced by Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno, the album moves away from the ambient experimentation of its predecessor, The Unforgettable Fire, and seeks a more forceful approach within more conventional song structures. This work draws on influences from folk and rock music, both Irish and American, and its lyrics, filled with spiritual imagery and strong sociopolitical content, reflect the band’s fascination with a mythical America, contrasting with their perception of “American reality.” The band’s experiences in the United States, along with their interest in the country’s literature and politics, were fundamental to the creation of this album.

Year
1987
Songs
11
Duration
50 min 13 seg
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About the album

The Joshua Tree, according to DoReSol

The recording sessions began in January 1986 and took place in a relaxed environment, mainly in two houses. During this process, several events shaped the album’s tone, such as the band’s participation in Amnesty International benefit concerts and the tragic death of their roadie, Greg Carroll. Bono, the vocalist, also traveled to Central America, which influenced his worldview and the themes of the songs. The pursuit of a “cinematic” quality in the music translated into a visual representation of the American desert in the album’s photography, evoking a sense of vastness and open space.

The impact of The Joshua Tree was immediate and significant. The album reached number one in the charts of more than 20 countries, including the United States, where it became the band’s first number-one record. It also stood as the best-selling album in British history at the time, with over 25 million copies sold worldwide. Among its most notable singles are “With or Without You,” “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” and “Where the Streets Have No Name,” the first two being the band’s only number-one hits in the United States. This album not only catapulted U2 to global fame but also earned them two Grammy Awards in 1988, including Album of the Year. The supporting tour, known as The Joshua Tree Tour, became the most lucrative in North America in 1987, marking their debut in stadiums.

Discography

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