Bad

U2

About Bad

"Bad" is a song by Irish rock band U2 and the seventh track on their 1984 album, The Unforgettable Fire. Thematically, the song is about heroin addiction, though lead vocalist Bono has given varying accounts of who was the inspiration behind his lyrics. "Bad" is considered a fan favourite and is one of U2's most frequently performed songs in concert. The band's 12-minute performance of the song at the Live Aid charity concert in 1985 was a breakthrough moment for the group. A live version of the song appears on U2's 1985 EP Wide Awake in America; this rendition became popular on album-oriented rock radio stations. The album version of the song featured on the trailer of Brothers and in the opening and closing sequences of Taking Lives. 


Year:
1984
6:08
1,434 
#7

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If you twist and turn away
If you tear yourself in two again
If I could, yes I would
If I could, I would
Let it go
Surrender
Dislocate

If I could throw this lifeless lifeline to the wind
Leave this heart of clay
See you walk, walk away
Into the night
And through the rain
Into the half-light
And through the flame

If I could through myself
Set your spirit free, I'd lead your heart away
See you break, break away
Into the light
And to the day

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
To let it go
And so to fade away
To let it go
And so, fade away

Wide awake
I'm wide awake
Wide awake
I'm not sleeping
Oh, no, no, no

If you should ask then maybe they'd
Tell you what I would say
True colors fly in blue and black
Bruised silken sky and burning flag
Colors crash, collide in bloodshot eyes

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
If I could, you know I would, if I could, I would
Let it go

This desperation
Dislocation
Separation, condemnation
Revelation in temptation
Isolation, desolation
Let it go

And so fade away
To let it go
And so fade away
To let it go
Oh now, and so to fade away

I'm wide awake
I'm wide awake
Wide awake
I'm not sleeping
Oh, no, no, no

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U2

U2 are an Irish rock band from Dublin. Formed in 1976, the group consists of Bono (vocals and guitar), The Edge (guitar, keyboards, and vocals), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen, Jr. (drums and percussion). U2's early sound was rooted in post-punk but eventually grew to incorporate influences from many genres of popular music. Throughout the group's musical pursuits, they have maintained a sound built on melodic instrumentals, highlighted by The Edge's timbrally varied guitar sounds and Bono's expressive vocals. Their lyrics, often embellished with spiritual imagery, focus on personal themes and sociopolitical concerns. more »

10 fans

Written by: Adam Clayton, Dave Evans, Larry Mullen, Paul Hewson

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


15 facts about this song

Release Date
"Bad" was released in 1984 as part of U2's album The Unforgettable Fire.
Song Inspiration
The song was originally written as a personal expression of pain and sorrow by lead vocalist Bono for his good friend, who died from a heroin overdose.
Lyric Evolution
While the studio version of the song has a set of clear lyrics, Bono has occasionally altered or added lyrics during live performances to make each performance unique and heartfelt.
Theme
The dominant theme of the song is addiction and its harmful effects on the individual and their loved ones.
Live Performances
Known for their electric live performances, U2 often extend "Bad" from its original 6-minute length to up to 13 minutes during concerts.
Major Recognition
The song is recognized as one of U2's greatest and it often occupies center stage in their live performances. It was a definitive performance during the band's appearance at Live Aid in 1985.
Benefit to Society
During the 1985 Live Aid concert, according to Bob Geldof, the founder of Band Aid and organizer of Live Aid, Bono's intense, emotional delivery during the live rendition of "Bad" resulted in an influx of donations and awareness to the cause.
No Single Release
Curiously, "Bad" was never released as a single (a fact that surprised many U2 fans), even though it is one of the band's most popular songs.
Film Presence
It was featured in the film, The Family Man starring Nicholas Cage and Tea Leoni.
Critical Acclaim
According to acclaimed music journalist Stuart Bailie, "Bad" is one of U2's most remarkable songs as it combines personal narrative with spiritual yearning and public address.
Symbolism
Musically, "Bad" represents an evolution in U2's sound with the introduction of ambient and abstract musical elements by producer Brian Eno.
Covers and Tributes
Several other musicians, including Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder and Coldplay's Chris Martin, have praised and performed versions of "Bad," underlining its influence in the music industry.
Fan Favorite
While not released as a single, "Bad" has become a firm fan-favorite and is frequently requested at U2 concerts.
Album Standout
Despite being part of an album that features several other popular U2 tracks, "Bad" is often singled out by critics and fans alike as a standout track on The Unforgettable Fire.
Emotional Impact
Due to its profound emotional resonance, "Bad" has been described as one of U2's most moving songs.

Discuss the Bad Lyrics with the community:

1 Comment
  • William Bill Godfrey
    William Bill Godfrey
    It's about letting go of your deamons.
    LikeReply6 years ago

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