“Desire” is a song by U2, released in September 1988 as the lead single from their album Rattle and Hum. The song became a significant hit for the band, reaching No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart and earning them their first Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1989. With its driving beat, raw energy, and distinctive guitar riff, “Desire” stands out as one of U2’s most well-known tracks.
Lyrically, “Desire” touches on themes of longing, temptation, and passion, exploring the conflicts between materialism, desire, and spiritual searching. The song is often seen as a reflection on the seductive power of fame and wealth, with Bono drawing comparisons between the lure of these worldly desires and the feeling of being caught in a whirlwind of excess.
Musically, “Desire” is heavily influenced by rock ‘n’ roll and boogie-woogie styles, with a distinctive rhythm inspired by The Stooges’ song “1969.” The song features a raw, stripped-down sound, driven by The Edge’s choppy, infectious guitar riff, Adam Clayton’s steady bassline, and Larry Mullen Jr.’s pounding drums. The rhythm is fast-paced and energetic, making the song a stark contrast to the more polished, arena-ready sound that U2 had become known for with albums like The Joshua Tree.
The song also features harmonica sections, played by Bono, adding to its rootsy, Americana-inspired feel. This approach reflected U2’s broader exploration of American musical traditions in the Rattle and Hum album, which combined rock, blues, gospel, and country influences.
“Desire” was a major commercial success for U2, reaching No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming their first UK chart-topping single. It also reached the top of the singles chart in Australia. In the U.S., the song performed well, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Modern Rock Tracks chart. The song’s commercial success helped Rattle and Hum become a major release for U2, continuing the momentum the band had built with The Joshua Tree and further solidifying their status as one of the world’s leading rock bands.
“Desire” earned U2 their first Grammy Award in 1989, winning for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. The song’s gritty, rock-inspired sound, combined with its energetic performance, marked a shift from the band’s more atmospheric, anthem-like sound, and it was widely praised for its back-to-basics, raw approach.
The music video for “Desire” was filmed in Hollywood, California and directed by Richard Lowenstein and Lynn-Maree Milburn.