U2 formed in Dublin, Ireland, in 1976. Bono (vocals and guitar), The Edge (guitar, keyboards, and vocals), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums and percussion) developed an anthemic rock sound married to introspective lyrics and social activism. U2 was for a period the biggest band on the planet and has a legacy that spans decades.

The band's early albums, such as "Boy" (1980) and "War" (1983), garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, establishing U2 as a major force in rock music. With songs like "I Will Follow" and "Sunday Bloody Sunday," they addressed themes of adolescence, spirituality, and political unrest, earning them a dedicated fanbase.

U2 achieved mainstream success with their album "The Joshua Tree" (1987), which featured hit singles like "With or Without You" and "Where the Streets Have No Name." The album's exploration of American themes and its rich, atmospheric sound earned it critical acclaim and cemented U2's status as one of the world's biggest rock bands.

Throughout their career, U2 has continued to push musical boundaries and explore new sonic territories. Albums like "Achtung Baby" (1991) and "Zooropa" (1993) showcased the band's willingness to experiment with electronic music and incorporate diverse influences into their sound.

Beyond their music, U2 has been actively involved in various social and political causes, including human rights, environmental sustainability, and global poverty alleviation. Bono, in particular, has become known for his advocacy work and has used his platform as a musician to raise awareness and mobilize action on these issues.

With numerous awards, including 22 Grammy Awards, and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, U2's impact on popular culture is undeniable. Their music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, and their influence on rock music and activism has left a lasting legacy.