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As U2 was wrapping up their 1983 album War, time in the studio was running dangerously low. The band needed one final track to complete the record.
In a moment of inspiration, lead singer Bono flipped open a Bible to Psalm 40 and began singing the verses aloud. This spontaneous act gave birth to “40,” a raw and spiritual song that transformed an ancient prayer into one of rock’s most iconic concert finales.
During the band’s 2024 residency at The Sphere in Las Vegas, Bono recounted the story behind the song on U2’s official blog. “We had 40 minutes left to record the War album,” he said.
“I just opened the sacred text to the Psalm of David and read it out-that was the lyric. This is ‘40.’”
The song’s lyrics are a heartfelt psalm of praise, featuring lines like, “I will sing, sing a new song. I will sing, sing a new song.
How long to sing this song? How long to sing this song?”
Interestingly, due to bassist Adam Clayton’s absence during the recording, guitarist The Edge took on bass duties as well, while drummer Larry Mullen Jr. handled the percussion.
“40” quickly became a fan favorite and a staple concert closer for the band. U2 often ended their live shows with this track, with Mullen staying behind onstage to finish the song’s lingering beats as the others exited. Bono later reflected on his early songwriting process, admitting that many early songs-including “40”-were written in just minutes.
The song’s impact on fans remains profound. An active Reddit thread dedicated to “40” reveals the deep connection listeners have with it.
One fan recalled, “The entire stadium walked out singing. Absolutely amazing experience.”
Another shared, “If you experienced it live… It sticks with you.” Even listeners who aren’t religious praise its beauty and emotional power.
More than 40 years later, “40” continues to resonate. By adapting an age-old song of hope into a vulnerable, arena-sized prayer, U2 demonstrated the timelessness of ancient stories and their ability to speak to today’s audiences.