U2 Makes Bold Political Statement with New EP 'Days of Ash'
The iconic Irish rock supergroup U2 has followed in the footsteps of fellow musician Bruce Springsteen by releasing new material with a powerful political message. The band, which had not put out new music since 2017, dropped a six-song EP titled U2 - Days of Ash on Wednesday, featuring the lead track American Obituary dedicated to the late Renee Good.
A Tribute to Renee Good and a Call for Peace
Renee Good, a 37-year-old American mother of three, was fatally shot on January 7 in Minneapolis during a confrontation with an officer from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The song American Obituary honors her memory while delivering a poignant critique of contemporary American society.
Lyrics from the politically charged track include: 'Renee Good born to die free/American mother of three/Seventh day January, a bullet for each child, you see.' The chorus features the powerful lines: 'What you can’t kill can’t die/ America will rise against the people of the lie.' Despite its fury, the band emphasizes that the song is ultimately a call for peace and justice.
Bono's Emotional Commentary on the Track
Lead singer Bono, 65, provided insight into the song's creation in a digital fanzine accompanying the album. He described American Obituary as 'a song of fury… but more than that a song of grief.' The artist, known for hits like Beautiful Day, elaborated on the deeper meaning behind the track.
'Not just for Renee but for the death of an America that at the very least would have had an inquiry into her killing… For her family as well as the credibility of law enforcement and the critical role they play in keeping the peace, keeping the citizenry safe.'
Addressing Global and Domestic Controversies
The EP's other tracks cover significant global issues, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, showcasing U2's continued engagement with international politics. Bono explained that the timing felt right to address ongoing political controversies in the United States through their music.
'U2’s been banging on about America most of our artistic life… this is a country we love and has loved us back. Amazingly. Americans for the most part have given U2 and me in particular permission to mouth off… And on this stuff I think people know that I’ve been an equal opportunity pest on the left as well as the right.'
Family Response and Broader Cultural Context
Renee Good's family released a statement expressing their gratitude for the tribute. They called the track 'an incredible honor' and said they were uplifted 'to have the talent and impact of U2 spreading the message of peace in Renee's name.' They added, 'We certainly feel the urgency of the country's situation reflected in the band's powerful call for change and coming together.'
Renee's partner, Becca Good, also shared heartfelt words: 'Renee didn't just believe in kindness; she lived it, fully and fiercely. She believed every person deserved the same compassion, care and dignity regardless of who they were.'
This release follows a similar move by Bruce Springsteen, who last month put out a track called Streets of Minneapolis, dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, innocent immigrant neighbors, and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good. U2's Days of Ash EP continues this tradition of musicians using their platform to comment on social and political issues, blending artistry with activism in a compelling new collection of songs.
