U2 named their iconic 1987 album "The Joshua Tree" because of a unique encounter during a photography session in California's Mojave Desert. Their photographer, Anton Corbijn, introduced the band to the distinctive Joshua trees, explaining their historical and symbolic significance.
The Desert Inspiration
The conceptualization of "The Joshua Tree" album, known for its exploration of American landscapes and spirituality, was heavily influenced by the band's time in the vast, arid beauty of the Mojave Desert.
- Location: While taking photos for the album, the band was immersed in the environment of California's Mojave Desert.
- Key Figure: It was their photographer, Anton Corbijn, who drew their attention to the specific desert flora.
- Discovery: Corbijn educated the band about the Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia), which are twisted, spiky plants native to the southwestern United States.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name "Joshua Tree" itself carries a deep historical and religious connotation, which likely resonated with the themes U2 was exploring in their music at the time.
The early Mormon settlers who crossed the Mojave Desert in the mid-19th century were responsible for naming the plant. They named it after the Old Testament prophet Joshua. The tree's unique, stretching branches reminded them of Joshua raising his hands in prayer, leading to the spiritual association that ultimately became synonymous with the plant and later, U2's album. This powerful imagery and biblical connection provided a fitting metaphor for the album's themes of faith, doubt, and the American dream.
