U2

Chris Jackson, Getty Images

Since drummer Larry Mullin Jr. posted a notice seeking band members on a high school bulletin board in 1976, the group he formed has become a stadium-selling powerhouse. Reigning members of rock royalty, the guys in U2 have avoided major drug troubles, personality clashes and death, and its original lineup remains intact.

In their favor: Widely acclaimed for its music, the band has also garnered a reputation for championing causes that involve the poor, social injustice and global warming.
Biggest threat: Global warming wipes out the band (and Earth).
Rating: 48