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The Joshua Tree

by U2

Released: March 09, 1987

Rock

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

The album is influenced by American and Irish roots music and depicts the band's love-hate relationship with the United States in lyrical themes of sociopolitical and personal concern. Its lead single, "With Or Without You," achieved the band's first number-one hit in the US. "The Joshua Tree" is the fifth studio album by Irish rock band U2.

Inside the Recording

It was produced by Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno and released on 9th March 1987 by Island Records.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

The album also spawned the hit singles "I…

The album also spawned the hit singles "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" and "Where The Streets Have No Name." Despite their earlier albums having a post-punk sound, "The Joshua Tree" represented a departure towards a more melodic and atmospheric sound.

The album is noted for its distinctive, cinematic…

The album is noted for its distinctive, cinematic feel.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

U2 - The Joshua Tree

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Then

Reception

"The Joshua Tree" received widespread critical acclaim, topped the charts in over 20 countries, and became the fastest-selling album in British history. The album was certified multi-platinum in many countries, including the UK, the US, and Australia. It also won Grammy Awards for Album of the Year and Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1988.

Now

Legacy

Since its release, "The Joshua Tree" has been regarded as one of the greatest albums in rock history.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"The Joshua Tree" is the fifth studio album by Irish rock band U2. It was produced by Daniel Lanois and Brian Eno and released on 9th March 1987 by Island Records. The album is influenced by American and Irish roots music and depicts the band's love-hate relationship with the United States in lyrical themes of sociopolitical and personal concern.

Its lead single, "With Or Without You," achieved the band's first number-one hit in the US. The album also spawned the hit singles "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" and "Where The Streets Have No Name."

Despite their earlier albums having a post-punk sound, "The Joshua Tree" represented a departure towards a more melodic and atmospheric sound. The album is noted for its distinctive, cinematic feel. Critics and fans alike praised the record for its socially and politically conscious lyrics, atmospheric music, and passionate performances. Since its release, "The Joshua Tree" has been regarded as one of the greatest albums in rock history.