The Story Behind U2’S “40” And Its Connection To Psalm 40.

December 3, 2024

The Story Behind U2’s “40” and Its Connection to Psalm 40

In the annals of contemporary music, few tracks encapsulate the spiritual zeitgeist of a band like U2’s “40.” A closing track from their 1983 album *War*, “40” stands as a musical testament not only to the band’s burgeoning identity but also to a curious intersection of rock and scripture. Rooted in the biblical text of Psalm 40, the song illustrates how U2 has consistently navigated the delicate interplay between faith and artistry, crafting a sonic experience that transcends mere entertainment to engage with profound existential themes.

From the outset, “40” is a contemplative piece, its structure and lyrical content echoing the plaintive cry of the Psalmist. With its hypnotic, repetitive refrainHow long to sing this song?”U2 invites listeners into a space of reflection and yearning. This refrain, lifted directly from the rhythm and cadences of Psalm 40, reverberates with an urgency that seems to emanate not only from the group’s musicality but also from a deep-seated desire for transcendence. The Phil Spector-like wall of soundcharacterized by The Edge’s echo-laden guitar licks and Adam Clayton’s insistent bass linecreates a rich tapestry in which each instrumental element works in concert to amplify the emotional gravity of the lyrics.

Lyrically, “40” reflects on themes of waiting, hope, and divine redemption, encapsulating the very essence of the biblical Psalm. The original text speaks to God’s deliverance from despair; similarly, U2’s rendition channels a collective longing for solace in the face of life’s tribulations. The song’s opening lineI waited patiently for the Lord”is an invocation that sets the tone for a musical meditation on faith. Here, Bono’s vocal delivery becomes paramount; his impassioned, almost pleading style resonates with an authenticity that feels both personal and universal, breathing life into the scriptural paraphrase.

Yet, “40” serves not merely as a religious reflection but as a cultural commentary embedded within the socio-political milieu of the early ’80s. Released at a time when the specters of war and social upheaval loomed large, U2’s music was imbued with an ethos of activism. *War* itself chronicles the struggles of those caught in the crossfire of global conflictsboth literal and metaphorical. Thus, “40” transcends its biblical roots, morphing into a rallying cry for social justice, a clarion call to those who find themselves marginalized or forgotten, echoing the very sentiments of Psalm 40’s inherent plea for deliverance.

Interestingly, the recording of “40” was as much a product of serendipity as it was of intentionality. The band’s decision to end the album with this song was significantly influenced by their live performances, where they often allowed the audience to take over, creating a communal experience of song and spirit. This spontaneity speaks to a larger philosophy U2 embodies throughout their work: music as a platform for connection and dialogue. The seamless transition from Bono’s lead vocals into the echoing chants of a captivated audience underscores the song’s ethos, transforming it into a shared experience of faith in action.

Ultimately, U2’s “40” stands as a poignant reminder of the power of music to articulate the ineffablequestions of faith, existence, and the human condition. Its connection to Psalm 40 enhances its lyrical depth, imbuing the song with an enduring resonance that captivates listeners, drawing them into a contemplative embrace of hope amidst uncertainty. In a world rife with disillusionment, U2 beckons us to reflect, to sing, and perhaps most importantly, to waitpatientlyfor the redemption that both the source text and the song promise. In doing so, the band not only solidifies their legacy as musical innovators but also cements their place as chroniclers of the spiritual journey of contemporary life.