'One' was released as a benefit single, with proceeds going towards AIDS research. Although the lyrics ostensibly describe 'disunity', they have been interpreted in other ways. The lyrics, written by lead singer Bono, were inspired by the band members' fractured relationships and the German reunification. Tensions almost prompted the band to break up until they achieved a breakthrough with the improvisation of 'One' the song was written after the band members were inspired by a chord progression that guitarist the Edge was playing in the studio. During the album's recording sessions at Hansa Studios in Berlin, conflict arose between the band members over the direction of U2's sound and the quality of their material.
It is the third track from their 1991 album Achtung Baby, and it was released as the record's third single in February 1992.
