U2 is a Dublin-based Irish rock band that was established in 1976. Bono (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), the Edge (lead guitar, keyboards, and backup vocals), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums and percussion) make up the band. U2’s musical approach, which began in post-punk, has changed throughout its history while maintaining an anthemic character founded on Bono’s expressive vocals and the Edge’s chiming, effects-based guitar sounds. Bono’s songs, which are sometimes adorned with spiritual imagery, address personal and geopolitical issues. The group, known for its live performances, has organized several ambitious and expensive tours throughout its existence.
U2 has recorded 15 studio albums and is one of the best-selling music artists in the world, selling an estimated 150-170 million copies worldwide. They have received 22 Grammy Awards, the most of any band, and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005, their first year of eligibility. U2 was placed number 22 on Rolling Stone’s list of the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time.” They have worked for human rights and social justice concerns as a band and as individuals throughout their career, collaborating with organizations and coalitions such as Amnesty International, Jubilee 2000, DATA/the ONE Campaign, Product Red, War Child, and Music Rising.