Angel of Harlem
U2
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It was a cold and wet December day When we touched the ground at JFK Snow was melting on the ground On BLS I heard the sound Of an angel New York, like a Christmas tree Tonight this city belongs to me Angel Soul love, this love won't let me go So long, angel of Harlem Birdland on fifty three The street sounds like a symphony We got John Coltrane and a love supreme Miles, and she's got to be an angel Lady Day got diamond eyes She sees the truth behind the lies Angel Soul love this love won't let me go So long angel of Harlem Angel of Harlem She says it's heart, heart and soul Yeah yeah (yeah) Yeah yeah (right now) Blue light on the avenue God knows they got to you An empty glass, the lady sings Eyes swollen like a bee sting Blinded you lost your way Through the side streets and the alleyway Like a star exploding in the night Falling to the city in broad daylight An angel in Devil's shoes Salvation in the blues You never looked like an angel Yeah yeah angel of Harlem Angel angel of Harlem Angel angel of Harlem Angel angel of Harlem Angel angel of Harlem
Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!
Written by: ADAM CLAYTON, DAVID EVANS, LAURENCE MULLEN, PAUL HEWSON
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
11 facts about this song
Composition"Angel of Harlem" was composed by U2, a popular rock band from Ireland. The primary credit goes to the band members, including Bono on vocals, The Edge on guitar, Adam Clayton on bass, and Larry Mullen Jr. on drums.
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Release DateThe song was released on December 1, 1988, as the second single from their album, Rattle and Hum.
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Influences and InspirationThe song is a tribute to Billie Holiday, a jazz singer commonly referred to as “Lady Day”. Her song "Strange Fruit" played a significant role as an inspiration for U2 in composing "Angel of Harlem".
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Recording LocationThe recording of the song took place at Sun Studios in Memphis, a significant site in music history noted for contributions to rock and roll and country music.
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Genre"Angel of Harlem" is a blend of roots rock and blues genre. The song showcases a unique and fresh sound that gives it a feel distinct from U2's earlier repertoire.
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Chart PerformanceThe song was quite successful, reaching #9 on the UK Singles Chart and #1 on the Dutch Top 40 in the Netherlands. In the US, it peaked at #14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
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Music VideoIts music video was filmed at Harlem’s Apollo Theater and features a guest appearance from the famed Chieftains, a traditional Irish band.
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Live Performances"Angel of Harlem" has been performed live by the band in almost every tour since it was first released, affirming its popularity among fans and its significance to the band.
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Inclusion in Compilation AlbumsThe song has been featured in several of U2's compilation albums, including "The Best of 1980–1990" and "U218 Singles".
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LyricsThe song’s lyrics include references to New York City landmarks and cultural icons, such as John Coltrane and Birdland, furthering its tribute to American music and culture.
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Notable CoverA distinctive cover of "Angel of Harlem" was performed by American musician, Joan Osborne, on her 2007 album "Breakfast in Bed".
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"Angel of Harlem Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 11 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/2819732/U2/Angel+of+Harlem>.
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