What makes Ordinary Love by U2 notable?

'Ordinary Love' received significant acclaim, earning a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song and signaling U2's continued relevance in contemporary music. The song's release coincided with the global recognition of Nelson Mandela's legacy, amplifying its cultural impact and connecting U2 to larger social narratives. Released on November 29, 2013, 'Ordinary Love' marked U2's return to music after a five-year hiatus following their album 'No Line on the Horizon.' This single was part of their broader engagement with social issues, particularly highlighted by its association with the film 'Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,' underscoring the band's commitment to activism during this phase of their career.

How many songs are on Ordinary Love?

Ordinary Love has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Ordinary Love

U2 · 2013

7 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A reflective, atmospheric blend of soft rock and heartfelt lyrics that captures the essence of human connection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ordinary Love — This title track encapsulates the themes of love and sacrifice, resonating deeply with listeners through its poignant melody and lyrical depth.
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Breathe (Mandela version) — This reinterpretation of 'Breathe' serves as a powerful tribute to Mandela, intertwining personal reflection with broader political messages.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The single showcases U2's signature sound while addressing social themes, though it lacks the depth of their work.

What we noticed

The main track features a slow build with layered instrumentation, gradually introducing strings and backing vocals that enhance its emotional weight.
The song's structure is straightforward, following a verse-chorus pattern with a bridge that shifts dynamics before returning to the chorus.
The second track, 'Breathe (Mandela version)', incorporates a more rhythmic approach with a prominent bass line and a faster tempo, contrasting with the first track.

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

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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: Late Career Highlight — The single showcases U2's continued relevance after a hiatus.
Themes: Mandela's legacy· collective resilience· human connection
Career context: Released on November 29, 2013, 'Ordinary Love' marked U2's return to music after a five-year hiatus following their album 'No Line on the Horizon.' This single was part of their broader engagement with social issues, particularly highlighted by its association with the film 'Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,' underscoring the band's commitment to activism during this phase of their career.
Stylistic neighbors: Coldplay· Radiohead· The Killers