The Edge of U2 … I recently read an article about him, his U2 career, his style, his gear and more. At the end of the article were a good amount “Edge hater” comments, some comparing The Edge with Eric Clapton. Really?
Not that he needs me to defend him, but naturally I had to respond! Here is my response…
For the Edge haters …
• Record sales exceeding 150 million worldwide.
• More than 80 awards including 22 Grammy’s (more than any other artist).
• The highest-attended tour in music history with over 7.2 million tickets sold.
• The largest grossing tour in music history with $736 million in ticket sales exceeding the Rolling Stones “Bigger Bang” tour by $178 million.
• 4 tours in the top 40 highest-grossing concert tours: http://bit.ly/11m8lLw
• In 2005, U2 were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in their first year of eligibility.
• U2 is ranked as the 21st highest-selling music artist in the USA with 51.5 million certified units by the RIAA.
• Rolling Stone Magazine ranked U2 at number 22 in its list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.
• Eight U2 songs appear on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time“, with “One” placed the highest at number 36
• U2 have released 12 studio albums. Five U2 albums were ranked on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.” The Joshua Tree placed the highest at number 27.
Like him or not, give credit where credit is due!
Comparing The Edge to Clapton is like comparing George Harrison to Chet Atkins. Apples and Oranges. Different players, techniques and styles.
The Edge is a great player and songwriter. He uses technology masterfully to sculpture guitar soundscapes. And, along with his mates, has crafted timeless hits that are loved worldwide.
What are your thoughts? Leave a comment below.
“I think of myself more as that side-man guitar player… guitar olympics… that’s not that interesting in the end.” -The Edge (Skip to 4:22)
