In the United States on November 4, 1988, U2 released their rockumentary Rattle and Hum. The movie was filmed while on tour for their seminal album The Joshua Tree and it was intended to have the band pay tribute to legendary artists while showcasing their live performances was a commercial flop. The movie grossed just over 8 million dollars, and while it was originally self-financed by the band, Paramount ended up taking it over and released it in theaters the same day the album of the same name came out.
The album featured the lead single “Desire,” which ended up being a major success for the band despite getting mixed reviews. The album and documentary feature live performances mixed with new songs that have guests like B.B. King, Bob Dylan, and even Harlem’s NEW voices choir.
After its release, the band went in a different direction. So, for better or worse, you have the questionable reviews to Rattle & Hum to thank for the 90s sound that U2 embraced moving forward.
