"All I Want Is U": A Tender Love Anthem Inspired by Bono's Wife Ali

U2's "All I Want Is U" stands as a mesmerizing love ballad that captures the band's signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and soaring melodies. The song holds a special place in U2's legacy, as it was written by Bono for his wife Ali during a pivotal moment in their relationship. The track reflects the depth of their emotional connection and showcases the band's exceptional songwriting prowess. The opening verse begins with Bono's emotionally charged vocals, as the lyrics convey Ali's perspective, assuring Bono of her love and acceptance, even with his perceived flaws. "You say you want diamonds on a ring of gold, you say you want your story to remain untold." The words paint a picture of a love that transcends materialistic desires, highlighting the essence of their bond.

The chorus repeats the poignant message of unconditional love: "All the promises we break, from the cradle to the grave, when all I want is you." The repetition emphasizes the depth of Ali's feelings, expressing that her ultimate desire lies in the love they share, unswayed by any challenges or imperfections.

As the second verse unfolds, the lyrics continue to showcase Ali's devotion: "You say you'll give me a highway with no one on it, treasure, just to look upon it." The verse eloquently conveys her contentment with Bono's presence, valuing their love above any worldly possessions.

Lyrics Breakdown: The opening verse begins with Bono's emotionally charged vocals, as the lyrics convey Ali's perspective, assuring Bono of her love and acceptance, even with his perceived flaws. "You say you want diamonds on a ring of gold, you say you want your story to remain untold." The words paint a picture of a love that transcends materialistic desires, highlighting the essence of their bond. The chorus repeats the poignant message of unconditional love: "All the promises we break, from the cradle to the grave, when all I want is you." The repetition emphasizes the depth of Ali's feelings, expressing that her ultimate desire lies in the love they share, unswayed by any challenges or imperfections. As the second verse unfolds, the lyrics continue to showcase Ali's devotion: "You say you'll give me a highway with no one on it, treasure, just to look upon it." The verse eloquently conveys her contentment with Bono's presence, valuing their love above any worldly possessions.

Lyrics Breakdown: [Verse 1] You say you want Diamonds on a ring of gold You say you want Your story to remain untold The opening verse instantly captivates the listener with Bono's emotionally charged vocals. The lyrics reflect Ali's perspective, reassuring Bono of her love and acceptance, even with his perceived flaws, and her desire for a love that transcends materialistic desires.

[Chorus] All the promises we break From the cradle to the grave When all I want is you. The chorus embraces the theme of unconditional love, acknowledging the imperfections and mistakes that come with it. The repetition of "All I want is you" reinforces the song's central message, emphasizing that love is the ultimate desire.

[Verse 2] You say you'll give me A highway with no one on it Treasure, just to look upon it. The second verse continues the imagery of love being more valuable than any material possession, further expressing Ali's devotion and contentment with Bono's presence.

[Chorus] All the promises we break From the cradle to the grave When all I want is you

[Bridge] You say you want Your love to work out right To last with me through the night

The bridge reinforces the yearning for a love that is lasting and enduring, amidst the challenges that life may bring.

[Chorus] All the promises we break From the cradle to the grave When all I want is you.

Background History of the Album "Elevation": The song is part of U2's tenth studio album, "Elevation," released in 2000. The album marked a period of experimentation for the band, exploring electronic and dance elements while maintaining their distinctive rock sound. "All I Want Is U" emerged as a standout track, inspired by Bono's love and appreciation for his wife Ali.

At the time of the album's creation, Bono and Ali were considering starting a family, and Bono found himself grappling with doubts about his ability to be a good father due to the demands of his music career. In response, Ali reassured him, expressing her love and acceptance for all aspects of him, even the troubled parts. Bono drew upon this heartfelt reassurance and channeled his emotions into "All I Want Is U."

Outstanding Performances of "All I Want Is U": Throughout their career, U2 has delivered captivating performances of "All I Want Is U," leaving audiences enthralled. One notable rendition took place during the "Elevation Tour" in 2001, where Bono's emotive delivery and The Edge's iconic guitar work created an unforgettable concert experience.

U2: All I want is U BBC

"All I Want Is U" remains a timeless love anthem, embodying U2's iconic sound and their profound ability to create emotionally resonant music. Its origin, written by Bono for his wife Ali, adds a deeper layer of emotion, making it a cherished gem in U2's musical journey. The song's heartfelt lyrics and powerful melodies connect with listeners of all ages, standing as a testament to the enduring power of love and emotional connection.

As the years pass, "All I Want Is U" continues to captivate generations of music enthusiasts, solidifying U2's status as rock legends. Its sincerity and raw emotion showcase the band's human side, reminding fans that even music icons experience the joys and challenges of love. The beautiful and personal story behind the song adds a new dimension of appreciation for its heartfelt lyrics, making "All I Want Is U" a true testament to the power of love and the enduring magic of U2's music.

Through this tender love anthem, U2's "All I Want Is U" serves as a reminder of the profound impact that personal experiences and emotions can have on artistic expression. The song's universal message of love and acceptance resonates with audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners and reaffirming U2's place in music history. It stands as a shining example of U2's unmatched ability to craft music that touches the soul and continues to inspire love and devotion, making it an eternal favorite among fans of the legendary band.

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Postive Vibes New U2 Album Arrives

"People who can't stand U2's earnest, heal-the-world side may want to turn elsewhere right now. The word "love," unironic and high-minded, recurs all over "Songs of Experience," the band's long-gestating sequel to its 2014 album, "Songs of Innocence." Where "Songs of Innocence" was full of youthful biographical specifics, both euphoric and grim, from the group's lead singer and main lyricist, Bono, "Songs of Experience" has an adult's broader, more general perspective. It favors lessons and archetypes, not stories…"
Jon Pareles, NEW YORK TIMES, 'U2 Releases 'Songs of Experience. Cynicism Not Included.'

"Songs of Experience will likely go down as a late-career classic. Unlike its predecessors, it carries some memorable, stadium-ready tunes, initially signposted by You're The Best Thing About me - their best comeback single since 2000's Beautiful Day…. U2 have dug deep, yet they remain both postmodern and unpredictable. Able to assume many sounds and voices; to invoke their early-80's innocence but also none-more-experienced, masters of every inch of their game…. from here, U2 can rebuild with confidence."
Andrew Perry, Q MAGAZINE, Bringing It All Back Home ****

"Textbook anthem Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way… is plainly a parent-to-child letter of reassurance; an important unburdening for someone recently spooked, and another key component in U2's strongest album this century."
James McNair, MOJO, 'The Letters of Paul' ****
 
 "As the title makes plain, Songs of Experience is not the work of young men. It showcases U2 at their most mature and assured, playing songs of passion and purpose, shot through and enlivened with a piercing bolt of desperation. "The Showman gives you front row to his heart / Making a spectacle of falling apart," Bono sings with defiant humor on The Showman, and it is this spectacle that makes Experience so compelling. A little battered by time and bloodied by events, U2 remain defiantly unbowed, as determined as ever to make mass market music that really matters."
Neil McCormick, DAILY TELEGRAPH, 'U2's Songs of Experience is full of desperation and meaty hooks in equal measure' ****

"Behind those tinted shades…there is still a superb blue-eyed soul singer. And next to him, The Edge is several guitarists in one: if he's not murmuring in your ear, he's roaring like Jimmy Page or taking a step back to join Larry Mullen and Adam Clayton, the most resolute of rhythm sections. After 41 years, U2's secret is their unity, just about the greatest strength a band can have. They're like an old friend now - you take them warts and all, you ride out their midlife crisis, and after spending time with them, you feel uplifted."
Tim De Lisle, MAIL ON SUNDAY, Album of the Week, '…the melodic, punchy tunes soon get under your skin.' ****

"Like its 2014 predecessor, U2's "Songs of Experience" is the product of a difficult and drawn-out recording process. Much more so than "Songs of Innocence," however, U2 has made an exciting, stage-ready album that doesn't blush or blink in its use of the band's signature sounds — The Edge's chiming guitar, Adam Clayton's trebly, adhesive bass, Larry Mullen Jr.'s sharp and responsive drums and Bono's heart-on-his-vocal-cords singing…"
Pablo Gordini, ASSOCIATED PRESS, 'U2's 'Songs of Experience' is a thrilling listen'
  
"...The penultimate track is 'Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way' another multi-layered beauty of a ballad. Sounds like a choir doing harmonies to Bono's soaring vocals and yet another strong grower.  This is truly a cracker of an album on first, second and third listens. Living with it for an extended spell will determine whether it hits the heights of a Joshua Tree, an Achtung Baby or the cruelly underrated Pop."
Eric Lalor, JOE.ie, 'Songs of Experience by U2 ranks alongside the band's greatest work.'

Published / U2.com/ Press Clips/