Legendary Irish rockers U2 are back with a bold new 6-track EP, Days of Ash, delivering music that speaks to courage, hope, and the human spirit. Released ahead of their full album later in 2026, this collection of songs and poetry is inspired by real stories of ordinary people showing extraordinary bravery in extraordinary times.
The EP includes five songs and a poem: American Obituary, The Tears of Things, Song of the Future, Wildpeace, One Life at a Time, and Yours Eternally, featuring Ed Sheeran and Taras Topolia. From mothers and fathers to teenage heroes and soldiers, each track tells a story of resilience, love, and the fight for freedom.
Bono describes the EP as “songs of defiance and dismay, of lamentation… for all the awfulness we see normalized daily, there’s nothing normal about these times.” Larry Mullen Jr. adds, “The world feels like the right moment for this music. We’ve never shied away from taking a stand, and these songs are a part of who we are.”
Photo: Anton Corbijn
Highlights include:
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American Obituary, honoring Minneapolis mother Renée Nicole Macklin Good, shot while peacefully protesting.
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Song of the Future, remembering 16-year-old Iranian schoolgirl Sarina Esmailzadeh and her fight for freedom.
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One Life at a Time, celebrating Palestinian activist Awdah Hathaleen, a voice for peace.
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Yours Eternally, featuring Bono, The Edge, Ed Sheeran, and Ukrainian soldier-musician Taras Topolia, capturing courage on the frontlines of Ukraine.
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Wildpeace, a poem by Yehuda Amichai, brought to life with music and vocals by Adeola of Les Amazones d’Afrique.
To celebrate the EP, U2 revives their iconic Propaganda zine with a special 52-page edition, offering behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive interviews with filmmakers and musicians connected to the project.
Days of Ash is a reminder that music can shine a light even in the darkest moments. For Branson audiences who cherish heart, story, and performance, this EP is a timely call to witness and celebrate courage, hope, and human spirit through song.
The EP is out now, and the accompanying documentary for Yours Eternally debuts February 24, marking the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.