Exit (U2 song)

"Exit" is a song by the Irish rock band U2, featured as the ninth track on their 1987 album, The Joshua Tree. It is a high-energy, intense track known for its powerful instrumentation and Bono's impassioned vocals.

The song's lyrics explore themes of violence, obsession, and psychological instability. Bono has described the song as depicting a dark, dangerous character, inspired in part by Norman Mailer's book The Executioner's Song, which tells the story of convicted murderer Gary Gilmore. The lyrics paint a picture of a man driven to the edge, possibly contemplating or committing violent acts. Lines such as "He saw the hands that build can also pull down" and "He’s pulling the ribbons from your hair" contribute to the song’s ominous and unsettling atmosphere.

Musically, "Exit" is characterized by its driving rhythm section, featuring Adam Clayton's bass and Larry Mullen Jr.'s drumming, which builds to a frenzied climax. The Edge's guitar work incorporates distorted and feedback-laden sounds, adding to the song's sense of urgency and chaos. The use of echo and reverb effects on Bono's vocals further enhances the song's atmosphere.

"Exit" has been performed live by U2 on numerous occasions, often as part of a medley with other songs. Its intensity and dramatic presentation have made it a memorable and powerful part of their live concerts. The song's raw energy and thematic darkness contrast with some of the more overtly anthemic and optimistic tracks on The Joshua Tree, contributing to the album's overall complexity and emotional depth.