U2’s ‘Silencio’ Lyrics & Meaning: What Is Their New Song About?

U2 are back with their new song “Silencio,” and we’re taking a closer look at the lyrics!

The legendary Irish rock band released the new track on Thursday (September 24), alongside the announcement of their upcoming 16th studio album Carnaval De Luz.

“Silencio” is the second song released from the album following “Street of Dreams,” and arrives during U2‘s 50th anniversary year. The band’s label describes the song as an “homage to early surf-punk insolence.”

So, what are Bono and the band singing about?

What Do U2’s “Silencio” Lyrics Mean?

As its title suggests, “Silencio” repeatedly returns to the idea of silence, but the lyrics present it in several very different ways.

Some of the song’s quieter images are peaceful and spiritual, touching on motherhood, the ocean, prayer and listening to another soul.

Elsewhere, however, that silence becomes much more unsettling. Bono references hearing a gunshot, being told to stay quiet, pepper spray and crowd control, before repeatedly returning to the image of the devil making rock and roll “in the silence.”

Religious imagery also runs throughout the track, with references to Mary, Jesus, the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

That fits into the larger themes of Carnaval De Luz. U2 says the new album explores “spirituality, friendship, freedom and endurance in the face of dark, encroaching forces.”

What Does “It’s When I’m With You, I Miss You the Most” Mean?

The chorus takes the song in a more personal direction.

After repeatedly singing “Silencio,” Bono asks where the love has gone and delivers the song’s central emotional contradiction: “It’s when I’m with you, I miss you the most.”

The line suggests a relationship in which physical closeness doesn’t necessarily equal emotional connection, tying another form of silence into the song: what remains unsaid between two people.

Where Was U2’s “Silencio” Music Video Filmed?

The accompanying “Silencio” music video was filmed in Mexico City earlier this year and was directed by Mexican-American directing duo Cliqua, made up of Pasqual Gutiérrez and Raúl “RJ” Sanchez.

The location also adds another layer to the song’s Spanish-language title and recurring Spanish words, including “tranquilo” and “sereno.”

“Silencio” was produced by Jacknife Lee, with additional production by Ryan Tedder.

Carnaval De Luz will be released on November 13 and marks U2‘s first studio album of new material in nine years.

Listen to “Silencio” below!

Read the Lyrics to U2’s “Silencio”

Read “Silencio” by U2 on Genius

If you missed it, U2‘s new album will also feature the final recorded vocal performance from Dolly Parton, and Bono revealed the emotional story of how she recorded it.

Via: Just Jared