"Lemon" was a bold move for U2, a band that had been known primarily for its rock sound rooted in post-punk and anthemic choruses. The early 1990s saw U2 experimenting with different genres and influences, especially electronic music, which was reflected in their Achtung Baby album. Zooropa took this experimentation even further, with "Lemon" serving as a prime example of the band's exploration of new sonic territories.
The song is characterized by its heavy use of synthesizers, electronic drums, and effects that create a hypnotic, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The groove is driven by a pulsating bassline and rhythmic, repetitive beats that diverge from U2’s traditional rock instrumentation. The production, handled by longtime collaborator Brian Eno along with Flood and The Edge, is sleek and polished, yet retains a sense of spontaneity and creativity. This combination of electronic music with U2’s rock roots was unconventional at the time, but it helped pave the way for other rock bands to explore similar genres.
One of the most striking aspects of "Lemon" is Bono’s vocal performance. Known for his powerful, emotive voice, Bono took a different approach in this song by singing almost entirely in falsetto. This choice added a layer of vulnerability and fragility to the track, contrasting with the cool, detached vibe of the instrumentation. Bono’s falsetto is haunting, giving the song an ethereal quality that draws the listener in.
The decision to use falsetto was risky, as it could have alienated fans who were accustomed to Bono’s usual vocal style. However, it worked within the context of the song, reinforcing the themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time. The high-pitched vocals can be interpreted as a representation of the elusive nature of memory, something that is fragile and easily distorted, much like the falsetto itself.
Lyrically, "Lemon" is one of U2’s more abstract and ambiguous songs. The lyrics were inspired by old home movies of Bono’s mother, Iris Hewson, who passed away when he was just 14 years old. The imagery in the song reflects Bono's attempt to capture the fleeting nature of memories and the way in which time can distort our perceptions of the past.
The refrain, "She wore lemon / To color in the cold grey night," suggests a vivid memory that stands out against the backdrop of the more mundane or painful aspects of life. The color lemon can be seen as a metaphor for brightness, vitality, and a longing for something that has been lost. The recurring line, "A man makes a picture, a moving picture / Through the light projected, he can see himself up close," alludes to the idea of film as a medium that can preserve memories, yet also distances us from the reality of those moments.
The lyrics also explore themes of identity and self-reflection. The concept of "looking through the light projected" can be interpreted as examining oneself through the lens of time and memory, where the truth becomes obscured and fragmented. The song does not offer clear answers but instead invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with memory and the passage of time.
"Lemon" can also be seen as a meditation on loss and the desire to hold on to the past. The way Bono repeats certain phrases throughout the song mirrors the repetitive nature of memory, where we often revisit the same moments in our minds, trying to find meaning or solace in them.
"Lemon" was not a commercial single in the traditional sense, but it became a significant track within U2's catalog. It was released as a single in the United States and charted modestly, but its real impact was in how it influenced the band's direction and the broader music landscape.
The song's blend of electronic and rock elements, along with its introspective lyrics, marked a new chapter for U2. It demonstrated that the band was not content to rest on its laurels but was willing to take creative risks and evolve with the times. This willingness to experiment is part of what has kept U2 relevant across multiple decades and why they are often regarded as one of the most innovative bands in rock history.
"Lemon" also influenced other artists and bands that came after U2. The song’s fusion of electronic beats with traditional rock structures can be seen as a precursor to the alternative rock and electronic music crossover that became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Bands like Radiohead and Depeche Mode, who also explored similar sonic territories, can be seen as part of the legacy that "Lemon" helped establish.
The reception to "Lemon" at the time of its release was mixed. Some fans and critics were unsure how to react to U2’s new sound, while others praised the band for their boldness and creativity. Over time, however, the song has been reevaluated and is now regarded as one of U2’s most important and innovative tracks.
"Lemon" remains a fan favorite, especially among those who appreciate U2’s more experimental work. It is often highlighted as a standout track on Zooropa and is seen as a defining moment in the band’s career. The song has also been performed live on several occasions, further cementing its place in U2’s legacy.
"Lemon" is more than just a song; it is a testament to U2’s ability to reinvent themselves and push the boundaries of what rock music can be. Its blend of electronic and rock elements, combined with Bono’s haunting falsetto and the introspective lyrics, make it a track that stands out not just within U2’s discography but within the broader context of 1990s music.
The song challenges listeners to think about memory, identity, and the passage of time, offering no easy answers but instead leaving us with a sense of wonder and contemplation. As U2 continues to evolve, "Lemon" remains a shining example of the band’s willingness to take risks and explore new musical landscapes, making it a timeless piece of art that continues to resonate with audiences today.
