Put 'Em Under Pressure
by U2

Album: Tribute To Ireland (1990)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This was The Republic of Ireland's official song for the 1990 world cup. Officially credited to U2, Larry Mullen wrote and produced it. New Order produced England's 1990 song, so U2 was credited with this to add star power to Ireland's song. Mullen is a huge fan of the Irish team.
  • The music is a cover version of the Horslips "An Dearg Doon," which is an arrangement of an ancient Irish air.
  • The track is well known for its haunting introduction provided by Moya Brennan of Clannad, followed by a bass guitar solo.
  • Vocals were provided by Jack Charlton, the football team coach; and by fans recorded at matches.
  • Ireland went on to finish 5th in the World Cup, and this song is often used in sporting programs recalling 1990. >>
    Suggestion credit:
    Kian - Dublin, Ireland, for all above

Comments: 7

  • Roddie from Waterford, Irelandno, it was NOT U2, only larry involved. Also the riff is taken from 'Dearg Doom' by Irish celtic rockers Horslips
  • Rudekid from Dublin, IrelandLarry didn't actually play on the single either. He produced it, wrote and arranged it. The drums where a machine controlled by a man named Denis Woods.
    Jack Charlton's lyrics where sampled from various TV and Radio interviews.
  • Rudekid from Dublin, IrelandLarry didn't actually play on the single either. He produced it, wrote and arranged it. The drums where a machine controlled by a man named Denis Woods.
    Jack Charlton's lyrics where sampled from various TV and Radio interviews.
  • Rudekid from Dublin, IrelandLarry didn't actually play on the single either. He produced it, wrote and arranged it. The drums where a machine controlled by a man named Denis Woods.
    Jack Charlton's lyrics where sampled from various TV and Radio interviews.
  • Rudekid from Dublin, IrelandThe performance of the chorus was actually the groupies from outside Windmill Lane. After several attempts to record the Irish team singing the chorus it was decided they couldn't sing a note. To this day the groupies have never been credited.
  • Niall from Limerick, IrelandGO ON YOU BOYS IN GREEEN!!!!!!!!!!!
  • Ryan from Windsor, CanadaU2 and football, what a great combo!
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Divided Souls: Musical Alter Egos

Divided Souls: Musical Alter EgosSong Writing

Long before Eminem, Justin Bieber and Nicki Minaj created alternate personas, David Bowie, Bono, Joni Mitchell and even Hank Williams took on characters.

Jello Biafra

Jello BiafraSongwriter Interviews

The former Dead Kennedys frontman on the past, present and future of the band, what music makes us "pliant and stupid," and what he learned from Alice Cooper.

Johnette Napolitano of Concrete Blonde

Johnette Napolitano of Concrete BlondeSongwriter Interviews

The singer/bassist for Concrete Blonde talks about how her songs come from clairvoyance, and takes us through the making of their hit "Joey."

Pam Tillis

Pam TillisSongwriter Interviews

The country sweetheart opines about the demands of touring and talks about writing songs with her famous father.

Richie McDonald of Lonestar

Richie McDonald of LonestarSongwriter Interviews

Richie talks about the impact of "Amazed," and how his 4-year-old son inspired another Lonestar hit.

Jethro Tull

Jethro TullFact or Fiction

Stage urinals, flute devices, and the real Aqualung in this Fact or Fiction.