Song meaning of Angel of Harlem by U2

"Angel of Harlem" by U2 is a vibrant and soulful tribute to the city of New York, specifically Harlem, and the music legends that have emerged from its streets. The song captures the essence of the city's energy and the profound impact it has on the band. Through vivid imagery and references to influential musicians, U2 conveys their love and admiration for the cultural melting pot that is Harlem.

The opening verse sets the scene on a cold December day, as the band arrives at JFK airport. The lyrics, "The snow was melting on the ground, On BLS I heard the sound, Of an angel," suggest a sense of anticipation and excitement. The mention of BLS, which stands for Black Liberation Station, alludes to the rich history of African-American music that has emerged from Harlem.

In the chorus, Bono sings, "Soul love, well, this love won't let me go, So long, Angel of Harlem." Here, the term "soul love" represents the deep connection and passion U2 feels for the music that originated in Harlem. The repetition of "Angel of Harlem" emphasizes the significance of this love and the impact it has on the band's creative spirit.

The second verse pays homage to the jazz greats who have graced Harlem's stages. References to John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Billie Holiday highlight their influential contributions to the music world. The lyrics, "Lady Day got diamond eyes, She sees the truth behind the lies, Angel," suggest that Billie Holiday, also known as Lady Day, possessed a unique insight and ability to convey raw emotions through her music.

The bridge section emphasizes the emotional depth of the song, with Bono singing, "She says it's heart, heart and soul." This line suggests that the music of Harlem is not just about entertainment but also about touching people's hearts and souls.

The final verse delves into the darker side of the city, with lyrics like "Empty glass, the lady sings, Eyes swollen like a bee-sting." This imagery portrays the struggles and hardships faced by those living in Harlem. However, the line "Like a star exploding in the night, Falling to the city in broad daylight" suggests that even in the midst of adversity, there is still hope and beauty to be found.

Overall, "Angel of Harlem" is a celebration of the rich musical heritage of Harlem and the profound impact it has had on U2. The song serves as a testament to the power of music to uplift and inspire, even in the face of adversity.