U2 And The Rare Vinyl Pressing Of October With Handwritten Notes

April 3, 2025

In the early days of U2, as the band was just starting to carve out their place in the music scene, they faced a lot of challenges. It was 1981, and they were releasing their second album, “October.” The world was buzzing with excitement over their debut album, “Boy,” but “October” was a different beast altogether. The members of U2, Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr., poured their hearts into this new project, but they were uncertain of how it would be received. The sound was more experimental, filled with haunting melodies and deep, spiritual lyrics that reflected their own search for meaning.

After working tirelessly in the studio, they produced a limited number of vinyl pressings of “October.” But what made these pressings truly special was the handwritten notes on each one. Bono took the time to write personal messages and thoughts that conveyed the essence of the album. These notes, chalked full of emotion and sincerity, gave listeners a glimpse into the band’s soul. For the fans who managed to snag one, it felt like they were holding a piece of U2’s heart in their hands. Despite their struggles with this album, these handwritten notes showed how deeply they cared about connecting with their fans.

As the album’s release approached, U2 faced uncertainty. The music industry was tough, and many doubted that their new direction would be successful. However, the sheer passion the band had for their music shone through. They believed in their message, and they were determined to stay true to themselves, even when the pressure was immense. The handwritten lyrics were not just scraps of paper; they were symbols of their resilience. For Bono, scribbling those notes was a way to remind himself and the world that music could be an uplifting force, even in the face of doubt.

Amazingly, as “October” began to circulate, something magical happened. Fans connected with the raw honesty of the lyrics. The album became a soundtrack for people grappling with their own struggles, and those handwritten notes transformed into a bond between U2 and its audience. The messages encouraged listeners to embrace vulnerability and seek deeper spiritual connections. While “October” didn’t achieve commercial success on the same level as “Boy,” it laid the groundwork for U2’s future, reinforcing their commitment to authenticity.

Years later, the rare vinyl pressings with those handwritten notes have become collector’s items, a treasure for die-hard U2 fans. They serve as a reminder of the band’s humble beginnings, the challenges they faced, and their unwavering belief in the power of music. Those notes reflect the heart of U2: a group of young artists who poured their souls into their work, inspiring others to do the same. In a world where validation often comes through numbers and charts, U2’s journey reminds us that staying true to your passion can create a ripple effect of hope and inspiration.

In retrospect, “October” was more than just an album; it was a testament to U2’s resilience and their ability to create music that matters. As Bono often says, “Music can change the world because it can change people.” Through their struggles and triumphs, U2 continues to prove this to be true, inviting us all to find our own voices, embrace our stories, and share our passions with the world.