2008 U2

U2 has left an indelible impression on generations of music lovers worldwide. Bono made it ok to care. Cool to be impassioned. Necessary to have a voice, an opinion. He wielded a torch on stage and wailed about governmental injustice and enflamed a generation not to be scared to hold accountability. As does fellow Dubliner Joyce, Bono draws caricatures in sublime simplicity, and we owe him thanks, for through him, we have become more honest and vulnerable.

Forty hit singles ranging from '3' in 1979 to 'Vertigo' in 2004 have led U2 to worldwide recognition for their musicianship, pop appeal and introspectiveness. As The Joshua Tree came to define 1987, and Achtung Baby 1992, How to Dismantle a Nuclear Bomb will come to define 2005. If you've never seen them live, it is an experience that leaves you inspired for weeks after. With hits such as 'With or Without You,' 'Elevation,' 'Where the Streets Have No Name,' 'Bad,' 'Beautiful Day' and 'Pride,' even the most unfamiliar with U2's canon will find something to sing along to.

Their work with producer/engineer Steve Lilywhite and Flood has led to one of the most recognizable musical archives of innovation, with The Edge's itchy guitar, Adam Clayton's rolling bass lines and Larry Mullen Jr.'s thumping snare-snapping efficiency.

One of the few things that is clear: If given an opportunity, U2 is a live show requirement. Whether a fan or not, it is a commanding performance, inspirational and fundamental. It makes believers out of us all.