VIDEO | U2 – 11 O'Clock Tick Tock

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BAND | U2

"11 O'Clock Tick Tock"

Last updated 📅 2025-04-20

Hear the urgent chime of U2's early post-punk classic, "11 O'Clock Tick Tock." Released as a standalone single in 1980 and produced by Martin Hannett, this atmospheric rock track showcases the band's raw energy, The Edge's signature guitar textures, and Bono's impassioned vocals.

TITLE: 11 O'Clock Tick Tock
BAND: U2
GENRE: Post-punk, Rock
RELEASEDAY: May 16
YEAR: 1980

A pivotal early recording for U2, this non-album single captured their developing sound between eras. Its driving post-punk rhythm, atmospheric guitars, and urgent feel demonstrated the powerful rock potential that would soon launch them to global fame following their debut album later that year.

This essential 1980 rock track features the tight interplay of Adam Clayton's bass and Larry Mullen Jr.'s drumming, providing a foundation for The Edge's layered guitars. "11 O'Clock Tick Tock," with its evocative lyrics and compelling post-punk intensity, remains a key piece for understanding early U2.

SONG MEANING: The song's abstract lyrics evoke a sense of spiritual searching, waiting, and urgency as time passes ("11 o'clock tick tock"). Phrases like "We live in a cold climate" and calls shouted into the darkness suggest a yearning for connection, meaning, or perhaps divine intervention in a challenging world, reflecting themes common in U2's early work.

Band

"U2"

U2 rose from Dublin post-punk roots to become one of the world's biggest rock bands. Defined by Bono's passionate vocals, The Edge's innovative guitar textures, and powerful live performances, they've sold millions, championed causes, and created anthems that resonate globally across decades.

TITLE: U2
ACTIVE: 1976–present (1976)
BAND: U2

Their iconic sound evolved from urgent, politically charged early-80s post-punk statements to the atmospheric, chart-dominating rock of their 1987 breakthrough. This era included massive hit love songs, like their US #1 single released March 16th, exploring spiritual yearning and complex emotional landscapes...

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BAND | U2

"Sunday Bloody Sunday"

Hear the iconic martial beat of U2's powerful 1983 protest anthem, "Sunday Bloody Sunday." The opening track from their landmark War album, this song's raw post-punk energy, stark guitar riff, and impassioned vocals created an unforgettable statement against violence that resonates decades later.