What makes Desire by U2 notable?

The track achieved significant commercial success, reaching number one on charts in multiple countries and winning a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group. Its impact extended beyond sales; it played a crucial role in shaping the late '80s rock sound and has influenced countless artists in the alternative and pop rock scenes. Released in 1988, 'Desire' marked U2's return to the music scene after the ambitious 'The Joshua Tree'. This single showcased a shift towards a more accessible sound, combining their post-punk roots with elements of dance-rock, reflecting the band's desire for reinvention amidst changing musical landscapes.

How many songs are on Desire?

Desire has 3 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

Desire

U2 · 1988

12 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant fusion of rock and dance rhythms, blending U2's signature anthemic style with infectious energy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Desire — As the title track, this song encapsulates the album's themes of longing and passion, showcasing Bono's commanding vocals over a pulsating beat.
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Hallelujah Here She Comes — This track stands out for its playful lyrics and upbeat tempo, presenting a contrasting perspective to the more serious tone of 'Desire'.
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Desire (Hollywood remix) — The remix offers a fresh take on the original, emphasizing the dance elements and expanding its appeal to club audiences while retaining the core message.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases U2's blend of rock and dance, though its brevity affects cohesion.

What we noticed

The title track 'Desire' features a driving beat and repetitive guitar riff that anchors the song, creating an infectious energy.
The second track, 'Hallelujah Here She Comes', shifts to a more melodic structure with layered vocals and a slower tempo.
The final track is a remix of 'Desire', which alters the original's arrangement by adding electronic elements and extending its danceable qualities.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — 'Desire' marked U2's return and showcased a shift to a more accessible sound, gaining significant recognition.
Themes: Hollywood glamour· dance-floor longing· post-punk revival
Career context: Released in 1988, 'Desire' marked U2's return to the music scene after the ambitious 'The Joshua Tree'. This single showcased a shift towards a more accessible sound, combining their post-punk roots with elements of dance-rock, reflecting the band's desire for reinvention amidst changing musical landscapes.
Stylistic neighbors: Coldplay· Radiohead· The Killers