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The story behind
When I Look at the World, according to DoReSol
The song When I Look at the World by U2 stands out for its deep reflection on faith and tragedy. In it, Bono recounts the experience of a person facing a crisis of faith, observing someone who has built their life on solid foundations. This personal approach intertwines with the story of Ali Hewson, who has shown significant commitment to the victims of the Chernobyl disaster, adding a layer of meaning to the lyrics. The song's instrumentation, which includes guitar, drums, and bass, was recorded in a short span during the sessions for the album All That You Can't Leave Behind, giving it a fresh and spontaneous feel.
The recording process was so quick that, upon finishing, The Edge realized he couldn't remember how to perform the song. This made it one of the three tracks on the album that were never played in full live, alongside Peace on Earth and Grace. The only time it has been heard in a concert was during a performance of Bad on the Elevation Tour in Kansas City, making it even more special for the band's fans. The song's duration is 4:18, and it was produced by Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, who also handled the mixing alongside Chris Heaney and Richard Rainey. This recording context and the themes it addresses make When I Look at the World a unique piece within U2's repertoire.
From album
All That You Can’t Leave Behind
U2 · 2000 · Track 9
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