How U2’S “Walk On” Was Inspired By Burmese Activist Aung San Suu Kyi.

December 2, 2024

In the landscape of rock music, few songs encapsulate the complexity of hope and resilience as effectively as U2’s “Walk On.” Released in 2000 as part of their acclaimed album “All That You Can’t Leave Behind,” the track is not simply a rousing anthem; it is a profound homage to Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese pro-democracy leader and symbol of resistance against oppression. U2’s frontman, Bono, has long been an advocate for human rights, and in “Walk On,” he merges political activism with emotive artistry, creating a work that resonates on both personal and global scales.

To understand the intricacies of “Walk On,” one must first consider its genesis within the socio-political climate of Myanmar, where Aung San Suu Kyi emerged as a beacon of hope amidst decades of military dictatorship. Imprisoned under house arrest for years, she became a figurehead for the struggle for democracy, her nonviolent approach to liberation mirroring the prevailing ethos of U2’s own activism. Bono’s inspiration for “Walk On” draws not only from Suu Kyi’s steadfast courage but also from a broader narrative of resilience in the face of adversity, a theme that is hauntingly prevalent in the human experience.

Musically, “Walk On” is characterized by its sweeping melodies and anthemic structure, which seamlessly aligns with its thematic weight. The song’s refrain, infused with an urgency and longing that evokes both pain and hope, speaks to the universal quest for freedom. Bono’s vocal delivery, imbued with both sincerity and an almost palpable sense of vulnerability, invites listeners to join in this collective yearninga call to action that transcends borders, cultures, and individual experiences. The instrumentation, layered with atmospheric guitar riffs and a driving rhythm section, enhances the lyrical message, creating a soundscape that is at once uplifting and introspective.

Lyrically, the song is punctuated with powerful imagery that reflects Suu Kyi’s journey, as well as the broader struggles faced by those who fight against oppression. The repeated invocation of walkingan act so simple yet deeply symbolicserves as a profound metaphor for perseverance. Bono implores listeners to “walk on,” a directive that encourages both resilience and active participation in the fight for justice. This notion of walking also evokes the idea of movement and progress; it is an acknowledgment that while the journey may be fraught with challenges, it is one worth undertaking.

However, the relationship between U2 and Aung San Suu Kyi has not remained uncontroversial. In the years that followed the song’s release, Suu Kyi’s political career developed in ways that sparked debates about her leadership and its implications for human rights in Myanmar. Critics have pointed to her silence on the plight of the Rohingya people as a troubling contradiction to the ideals she once embodied. This realization complicates the legacy of “Walk On,” as listeners must grapple with the evolving nature of political figures and their actions. The song remains a potent reminder of the power of art to inspire change, even as it reflects the sometimes harsh realities of those it seeks to celebrate.

In retrospect, U2’s “Walk On” stands not only as a tribute to Aung San Suu Kyi but also as a testament to the enduring power of music as a catalyst for change. The song emboldens a generation to engage with the pressing issues of their time, underscoring the belief that even in the darkest moments, the act of walkingfiguratively or literallytoward justice is a noble pursuit. As listeners continue to encounter its resounding call, “Walk On” remains a poignant reminder that hope, like music, is both a personal journey and a collective anthem, echoing through the corridors of time.