* The Rolling Stones: The Rolling Stones are another major influence on U2. The band's raw, bluesy sound has been a clear inspiration for U2, and the band's use of repetition and call-and-response vocals is also reminiscent of the Stones.
* Led Zeppelin: Led Zeppelin's heavy, riff-based sound has also been a major influence on U2. The band's use of dynamics and their ability to create a sense of atmosphere have been particularly influential on U2.
* The Who: The Who's powerful, energetic live performances have been a major inspiration for U2. The band's use of feedback and distortion has also been influential on U2, and the band's early work in particular shows the influence of the Who.
* Joy Division: Joy Division's dark, atmospheric sound has also been a major influence on U2. The band's use of synthesizers and their ability to create a sense of tension have been particularly influential on U2.