U2 releases politically-charged EP Days of Ash addressing Renee Good’s death and social injustice in Minneapolis

After nearly a decade away from releasing new music, U2 is back — and they’re not holding back.

Their latest six-song EP, U2 – Days of Ash, drops right into the heart of political discourse, with the opening track, American Obituary, dedicated to Renee Good, a 37-year-old woman fatally shot in Minneapolis last month.

The band’s approach recalls Bruce Springsteen’s recent politically-minded releases, signaling that these rock icons see music as a platform for activism as much as entertainment.

American Obituary: A Song of Fury and Grief

The EP’s lead track doesn’t shy away from confronting America’s ongoing struggles with violence and accountability.

The lyrics mention Renee Good directly: “Renee Good born to die free / American mother of three / Seventh day January, a bullet for each child, you see.”

The chorus drives the message home with lines like “What you can’t kill can’t die / America will rise against the people of the lie.”

Bono described the song as “a song of fury… but more than that a song of grief,” reflecting not only the loss of Renee but also broader concerns about the nation’s response to tragedies.

Bono’s Perspective: Speaking Up for Justice

At 65, Bono remains deeply engaged with political issues, and he shared his thoughts in a digital fanzine accompanying the EP.

He emphasized that the track addresses the need for accountability and an America that honors justice.

“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,” Bono explained.

He also contextualized the band’s history of commentary: “U2’s been banging on about America most of our artistic life… this is a country we love and has loved us back.

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.”

Other Tracks Tackle Global and Domestic Issues

The EP doesn’t stop with Renee Good’s story.

Songs explore conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, blending personal loss with broader political commentary.

Bono explained that the timing felt right to speak on America’s current state while maintaining the band’s global perspective.

Family Response: Honoring Renee’s Legacy

Renee Good’s partner, Becca Good, praised the track in a statement: “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.”

The family called U2’s tribute “an incredible honor,” noting that having such a high-profile band amplify Renee’s story and the call for peace “reflects the urgency of the country’s situation” and the importance of coming together.

Bruce Springsteen Sets a Similar Tone

U2 isn’t alone in using music to comment on the tragedy.

Last month, Bruce Springsteen released Streets of Minneapolis, dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, innocent immigrant neighbors, and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good.

The parallel between these rock legends underscores a growing movement among musicians to address social justice issues through their art.

What’s Next?

The release of Days of Ash signals a return to both music and activism for U2.

Fans and critics can expect further commentary, whether through music videos, interviews, or live performances.

Discussions around Renee Good’s death and U.S. immigration policies are likely to intensify, and the EP may spark additional conversations on accountability, law enforcement, and community action.

As the band tours and promotes the new EP, Bono has hinted at expanding the conversation beyond music, engaging in digital campaigns and live Q&A sessions to highlight pressing social issues globally.

Summary

U2 has returned with a politically-charged EP, Days of Ash, led by the track American Obituary, dedicated to Renee Good, who was fatally shot in Minneapolis.

The song blends grief and fury, calling for justice and highlighting America’s challenges with accountability.

Bono emphasized the band’s commitment to speaking out, while other tracks address conflicts abroad.

Renee Good’s family expressed gratitude for the tribute, seeing it as a powerful message of peace.

The EP follows similar recent efforts by Bruce Springsteen, and the release is expected to ignite ongoing discussions about social justice, law enforcement, and advocacy.