"With or Without You" is U2's second most frequently covered song.
In 2010, Rolling Stone magazine placed the song at number 132 on their list of "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time".
"With or Without You" is written in a 4/4 time signature and is played at a tempo of 110 beats per minute.
The lyrics of the song ostensibly describe a troubled relationship between two lovers, although the lyrics have been interpreted in religious contexts.
According to Bono, the song was heavily influenced by Scott Walker's album Climate of Hunter.