"Pop" is the ninth studio album by Irish rock band U2, released in 1997. The album marked a departure from the band's previous sound, incorporating elements of electronic dance music, techno, and alternative rock. It was produced by Flood, Howie B, and Steve Osborne.
"Pop" explores themes of celebrity, consumerism, and the media. The album's lead single, "Discothèque," reflects its dance-oriented direction. Other notable tracks include "Staring at the Sun," "Last Night on Earth," and "Please."
While "Pop" received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its experimentation and others feeling it deviated too far from U2's roots, it has gained retrospective appreciation for its boldness and innovation. The subsequent PopMart Tour, supporting the album, was one of the highest-grossing tours in history. Despite initial commercial success, the album's unconventional approach marked a challenging period for U2, influencing their return to a more traditional sound in subsequent releases.
