Massive Attack and Tom Waits Release Collaborative Single "Boots on the Ground"

Massive Attack and Tom Waits have released a new collaborative single titled "Boots on the Ground," marking a significant return for both artists. This track is Massive Attack's first new music in six years and Waits' first original song in 15 years. The single is accompanied by a spoken-word B-side from Waits called "The Fly," and additional spoken-word reflections from Egyptian-Canadian-American writer Omar El Akkad, set to be released on April 17, 2026.

Massive Attack and Tom Waits Team Up for “Boots on the Ground”

The release of "Boots on the Ground" comes amid a politically charged atmosphere, with Massive Attack describing it as a protest anthem reflecting on the current state of affairs. The group stated, “Across the western hemisphere, state authoritarianism and the militarization of police forces are fusing again with neo-fascist politics.” This sentiment is echoed in the accompanying film, created in collaboration with photographer thefinaleye, which focuses on themes such as opposition to ICE raids and the militarization of domestic forces.

Massive Attack and Tom Waits Team Up on New Single ‘Boots on the Ground’

Massive Attack consists of Robert "3D" Del Naja and Grantley "Daddy G" Marshall. Del Naja recently made headlines after being arrested during a Palestine Action protest, further emphasizing the political context of their new music. Tom Waits, known for his distinctive voice and poetic lyrics, has not released new material since 2011's "Bad as Me." The collaboration also features vocals from Waits' son, Casey.

Massive Attack and Tom Waits team up for ‘Boots on the Ground’

In a joint statement, Massive Attack expressed their honor in collaborating with Waits, emphasizing the chaotic environment in which the song is being released. They noted, “This track contains pulses of callous impulse & abandoned mind.” Waits reflected on the long journey of the song's release, stating, “Their long release delay never worried me. Today, as in all of mankind’s yesterdays, guarantees this song will never go out of style.”

Massive Attack and Tom Waits Team Up for “Boots on the Ground”

The single is significant not only for its content but also as it is the first music released by Massive Attack under a "Spotify exemption policy." All profits from the vinyl edition of "Boots on the Ground" will be donated to the American Civil Liberties Union and the US Immigrant Defense Project. Massive Attack has indicated that further releases are planned in conjunction with their upcoming tour.

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

• “It’s a career honor to collaborate with an artist of the magnitude, originality and integrity of Tom, but this track is arriving in an atmosphere of chaos,” — Massive Attack

Massive Attack and Tom Waits Team Up for “Boots on the Ground”

• “Man’s fiasco folly is a feast for the flies.” — Tom Waits

Massive Attack and Tom Waits Team Up for “Boots on the Ground”

This collaboration between Massive Attack and Tom Waits not only marks a notable return for both artists but also serves as a poignant commentary on contemporary political issues, encapsulating the urgency and complexity of the current moment.

Massive Attack and Tom Waits Team Up for “Boots on the Ground”