Carter Alan tracks the U2's incredible rise in America. Alan, a freelance writer and music director for WBCN Boston, one of the country's most important modern rock radio stations, has traveled extensively with U2 and hosted several syndicated radio specials with the band. Using material from years of exclusive interviews with the group and its management, he explores the chemistry between U2 and its American audience. Illustrated with photos of the group in concert and behind the scenes, U2: The Road to POP charts U2's progress from the fledgling performance at the tiny Paradise nightclub in Boston through 1985's legendary Live Aid appearance to the alien landscapes and technological reinvention of the band in the 1990s. Alan considers the price U2, whose aim has always been to connect with its audiences, has paid for its popularity as well as the need to challenge itself artistically while still writing music fans adore.