“I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” is one of U2’s most iconic songs, known for its spiritual depth, evocative lyrics, and powerful vocals. Released in May 1987 as the second single from their fifth studio album, The Joshua Tree, the song became a defining track for the band and is widely regarded as one of their greatest achievements.
The song was written by U2 members Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr., with production by Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois. The Joshua Tree album was a turning point for U2, both musically and thematically, as it explored more profound themes of spirituality, social justice, and human rights, influenced by the band’s experiences with American culture.
“I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” reflects Bono’s spiritual journey and search for meaning. The lyrics draw heavily on gospel music, a genre that inspired much of the album’s sound. Bono has described the song as a “gospel song with a restless spirit,” capturing the tension between faith and doubt, longing and fulfillment.
Musically, “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” blends rock, gospel, and soul influences. The song is built around a simple yet compelling chord progression, with The Edge’s guitar playing a central role. His use of delay effects creates a shimmering, expansive sound that complements the song’s themes of vastness and longing. The rhythm section, driven by Larry Mullen Jr.’s drums and Adam Clayton’s bass, provides a steady, uplifting beat, while Bono’s impassioned vocals deliver the song’s message with conviction and emotion. The gospel influence is particularly evident in the song’s choir-like backing vocals, which add a layer of spiritual intensity.
“I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and performing well in several other countries. The song helped solidify U2’s status as one of the world’s leading rock bands and contributed to the immense success of The Joshua Tree, which remains one of their best-selling albums.
The music video for “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” was filmed on the streets of Las Vegas, capturing the band as they walked along the famous Fremont Street, n 12 April 1987 following their Joshua Tree Tour concert in that city.