U2 - The Hands That Built America

Tonight's post is in memory of Apple co-founder and former CEO, Steve Jobs. As you've no doubt heard by now, he passed away today after a long battle with cancer. So passionate was he about the company he built, he held an active role in the company until less than two months ago. As the company's official statement says, "his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple."

You may have heard today's featured song by U2, as it played over the final scene and end credits of Gangs of New York. I don't really have much to say about the song itself right now.

So why did I pick this song tonight?

Because of Steve Jobs' role in creating and nurturing one of America's most important industries. As well as the company has done, the mind boggles wondering what Apple might be today if Jobs had been able to pour all his energy into it instead of spending so many years fighting cancer.

Apple and the tech industry are creative, powerful, and inspiring. Jobs' vision of taking computers away from just guys like me and into the mainstream changed everything. America and the world are richer for it, and the industry that came from his and others' efforts and ingenuity represents our best and possibly last chance to maintain economic superiority.

Thanks for everything, Steve.

CD and MP3

It's because of him you can buy an MP3, by the way.

U2 - Bad

You probably know this one. But it's been going through my head all day long and I had to do something about it. 1984, The Unforgettable Fire, played at many of their concerts. This is almost elementary education.

I have a tendency to get this song mixed up with "All I Want is You" when casually listening to U2.

I had this track playing in the car today and my friend mentioned that it was about heroin, which is something I'm completely unfamiliar with, fortunately. However, to be perfectly honest, I really don't pay a whole lot of attention to lyrics and their deeper meaning. I need someone to tell me what they mean.