U2 Releases Tribute Song 'American Obituary' for Renee Good

The band's new EP also features songs inspired by other recent deaths around the world.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Irish rock band U2 has released a new six-track EP titled 'Days of Ash,' which includes the opening track 'American Obituary' - a tribute to Renee Good, a mother of three who was killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer in Minneapolis last month. The band says the song is 'a song of fury...but more than that a song a grief' not just for Good, but 'for the death of an America' that would have at least inquired into her killing.

Why it matters

U2's tribute song shines a spotlight on the controversial death of Renee Good at the hands of an ICE officer, which has sparked outrage and protests in Minneapolis. The band's powerful message reflects the urgency many feel about the country's current situation and the need for change and unity.

The details

The lyrics of 'American Obituary' by U2 frontman Bono directly reference the details of Renee Good's death, including that she was a mother of three who was killed by three bullets in Minneapolis on January 7, 2026. The band says the song is a 'song of fury' but also 'a song of grief' not just for Good, but for the 'death of an America' that would have at least inquired into her killing.

  • U2 surprise-dropped their new EP 'Days of Ash' on Ash Wednesday 2026.
  • Renee Good was killed by an ICE officer in Minneapolis on January 7, 2026.

The players

U2

An Irish rock band known for their socially conscious music and activism.

Bono

The lead singer of U2 who wrote the lyrics to 'American Obituary.'

Renee Good

A mother of three who was killed by an ICE officer in Minneapolis in January 2026.

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What they’re saying

“'American Obituary' is a song of fury...but more than that a song a 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.”

— Bono, U2 Frontman (CBS News)

“It is an incredible honor to have the talent and impact of U2 spreading a 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.”

— Renee Good's Family (Statement)

What’s next

The band has not announced any plans for a full album release or tour in support of the 'Days of Ash' EP.

The takeaway

U2's tribute song 'American Obituary' powerfully captures the grief and outrage felt over Renee Good's death, while also reflecting the broader societal tensions and calls for change that her tragic killing has come to symbolize.