U2 releases its first new music since 2017 with the six-song EP U2: Days of Ash, leading off with the politically charged track ‘American Obituary.’ The song honors Renee Good, a 37-year-old Minneapolis mother fatally shot on January 7 during a confrontation with an ICE officer.

Song Lyrics Highlight Tragedy and Call for Peace

The lyrics capture Good’s story: ‘Renee Good born to die free/American mother of three/Seventh day January, a bullet for each child, you see.’ The chorus declares, ‘What you can’t kill can’t die/ America will rise against the people of the lie.’

Lead singer Bono describes the track as ‘a song of fury… but more than that a song of grief. 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.’

Bono Addresses U.S. Political Issues

Bono notes the timing aligns with ongoing U.S. controversies. ‘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.’

Other EP tracks tackle conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Family and Partner Respond to Tribute

Renee Good’s partner, Becca Good, states: ‘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.’

Good’s family calls the dedication ‘an incredible honor.’ They add they feel ‘uplifted to have the talent and impact of U2 spreading the message of peace in Renee’s name. We certainly feel the urgency of the country’s situation reflected in the band’s powerful call for change and coming together.’

Following Bruce Springsteen’s Lead

U2 follows Bruce Springsteen’s example. Last month, Springsteen released ‘Streets of Minneapolis,’ dedicated to Minneapolis residents, innocent immigrant neighbors, and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good.