U2 and Berlin

U2 has had a significant connection to Berlin throughout their career, particularly during the 1990s when they recorded their album “Achtung Baby” in the city. The band was drawn to the city’s vibrant and creative atmosphere, which was undergoing a dramatic transformation after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

The city and its history have also influenced many of U2’s songs, including “One” and “Stay (Faraway, So Close!)” which were both written during their time in Berlin.

U2’s seventh studio album, “Achtung Baby,” was recorded in Berlin. The album was released in 1991 and marked a significant departure from the band’s previous sound, incorporating elements of electronic and industrial music. The band members have credited the city’s creative atmosphere and the fall of the Berlin Wall with inspiring the album’s more experimental and introspective themes. Several of the album’s most popular tracks, including “One,” “Mysterious Ways,” and “The Fly,” were recorded in Berlin, and the city’s influence can be felt throughout the entire album. “Achtung Baby” was a critical and commercial success, and is widely regarded as one of U2’s greatest works.

In addition to recording in Berlin, U2 has also performed many memorable concerts in the city, including a historic concert at the Brandenburg Gate in 1991, shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall. This concert was attended by more than 100,000 people and was seen as a powerful symbol of unity and hope.

U2 has also performed several memorable concerts in Berlin over the years. Here are some of the most notable ones:

November 1981 – U2 played their first concert in Berlin at the Kant Kino. This concert was part of their “October” tour and was attended by around 800 people.

August 1993 – U2 played a massive concert at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin as part of their “Zoo TV” tour. The concert was attended by over 50,000 people and featured an elaborate stage show that included a giant video screen and a live satellite link to Sarajevo.

July 2005 – U2 played a concert at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin as part of their “Vertigo” tour. This concert was attended by over 75,000 people and was notable for its high-energy performance and stunning visual effects.

July 2009 – U2 played two sold-out concerts at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin as part of their “360° Tour.” These concerts featured a massive circular stage that allowed the band to perform in the round, giving fans a 360-degree view of the action.

November 2018 – U2 played two concerts at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Berlin as part of their “Experience + Innocence” tour. These concerts were notable for their intimate atmosphere and focus on the band’s more recent material.

Overall, U2’s connection to Berlin has been an important part of their artistic and cultural legacy, and the city continues to hold a special place in the hearts of both the band and their fans.