The Stories Behind U2 Songs, 18-21

In this segment of our list of the stories behind 29 U2 songs, you will find information on "Stay (Far Away, So Close)" and "Beautiful Day."

18. "Numb" (1993)

U2 got even more experimental with the album Zooropa. "Numb," the first single from that album, reached number two on Billboard's Modern Rock chart. Edge takes lead vocals on this song, speaking the lyrics in a monotone voice with backup vocals by Bono and Larry Mullen, Jr. -- a very rare occurrence for the drummer. Bono has said the lyrics symbolize information overload from the constant barrage of media coverage.

19. "Stay (Far Away, So Close)" (1993)

"Stay" is another example of a fan favorite that did not chart well, not breaking the top ten on any U.S. chart. The song, which appears on Zooropa, was written for the Wim Wenders' film Far Away, So Close.

The song's meaning is debatable, but one take is that it's about a guardian angel who feels helpless that he can watch over the living person but not really help them. Or perhaps it's about somebody caught in an abusive relationship. Fans love it, but it hasn't been played on tour since 2001.

20. "Please" (1997)

"Please" appeared on Pop, the band's most experimental and dance-oriented album to date, which band members agree needed a few more weeks to really polish it. "Please" is a song about terrorism and the troubles in Northern Ireland, but the song and its prophetic lyrics ("September, streets capsizing . . . /Shards of glass, splinters like rain . . .") took on new meaning following 9/11.

In recordings from the Popmart tour, Bono pours out his heart and soul, crying out "please, please," almost desperate, begging. But then, just as your heart starts to break for him, you hear the ping of Larry's drumstick against the cymbal as "Streets" takes off. It's like a security blanket or the voice of an old friend, and with the reassuring sounds of an old favorite, fans know all will be okay.

21. "Beautiful Day" (2000)

With the release of All That You Can't Leave Behind, U2 once again reinvented themselves, ditching their dance-oriented experimental phase and returning to their roots, albeit with a harder, rock-based sound. "Beautiful Day," the first single from the multiplatinum, Grammy Award-winning album, is a reminder that no matter how bad life can get, we should always be thankful for what we have.

The song went to number five on Billboard's Modern Rock chart, and it secured three more Grammys for the Dublin lads -- Song of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Rock Performance.

On the next page you will find more stories behind U2 songs, including "Elevation" and "Walk On."

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