Musicians often grapple with burnout or creative blocks, a challenge that even the most successful bands face from time to time. For U2, the recording of their second album, October, was particularly fraught with difficulties. It was during this time that Larry Mullen found himself in a frustrating period of exhaustion, prompting him to push through his struggles.
Despite their eventual acclaim, U2 had a rocky beginning as they sought to establish their identity. Their early hits captured the raw energy of the post-punk era, but October took a different, more introspective direction, delving into personal issues like faith and self-esteem. This thematic shift brought uncertainty and tension within the band, particularly for Mullen, who was feeling the weight of a demanding touring schedule and the pressure to deliver a significant album.
Compounding the situation, Bono mislaid a briefcase containing crucial lyrics, which led to a frantic rewriting of much of the record. This panic spread through the band, and producer Steve Lillywhite noted that it created a “chaotic and mad” atmosphere, pushing everyone into a state of heightened stress.
In the midst of these challenges, the band channeled their frustrations into the song “I Threw A Brick Through A Window.” The title reflects the aggression Bono felt, stemming from his struggles with self-image. However, Mullen faced a major hurdle when it came to keeping pace with the song’s tempo. His exhaustion and disillusionment weighed heavily on him, affecting his performance. He hoped to return the next day rejuvenated, but instead discovered that The Edge had overdubbed his drum parts.
Reflecting on this experience, Mullen recalled, “The real wake-up call for me was after a long day getting nowhere on ‘I Threw A Brick.’ When I came back to the studio the following day, Edge had overdubbed a great tom part. I was so pissed off he had come up with a better drum part than me. It was the kick in the ass I needed.”
Despite these setbacks, “I Threw A Brick Through A Window” became a live favorite throughout the 1980s, showcasing Mullen’s revitalized energy in performances. While his burnout affected a portion of the recording sessions, it ultimately served as a reminder that if he didn’t overcome his struggles, U2 would continue to move forward without him.
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