Songs of Innocence (U2 album)

Songs of Innocence is the thirteenth studio album by the Irish rock band U2, released on September 14, 2014, by Island Records. The album was initially released as a free download to over 500 million iTunes users, a controversial move that generated significant media attention and mixed reactions from fans and critics.

The album's title is inspired by William Blake's poetry collection, Songs of Innocence and of Experience, and thematically explores themes of childhood, faith, family, and memory. Musically, the album marks a shift toward a more introspective and personal sound compared to some of U2's previous, more anthemic works. It features a more prominent use of electronic elements and incorporates personal anecdotes from the band members' lives, particularly Bono's.

While some critics praised the album's intimate and emotionally resonant moments, others criticized its perceived lack of ambition and its overwhelmingly sentimental tone. The unexpected free iTunes release generated significant debate regarding its impact on the music industry and the value of digital distribution. Despite the initial controversy surrounding its release, Songs of Innocence achieved commercial success, reaching number one in several countries. However, its legacy remains somewhat complex, acknowledged as a commercially successful but critically divisive release in the band's extensive catalogue. Subsequent releases and tours have largely focused on other periods in U2's career, indicating the album's relatively less prominent position within their overall discography.