Multi-platinum Dutch DJ and producer Martin Garrix has joined forces with legendary rock band U2 for the release of their new collaboration, “Fireflies,” out now via Darkroom Records. The track marks a milestone for both artists, bringing together Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr. on a Martin Garrix production for the first time.
“Fireflies” made its live debut during Martin Garrix’s headline performance at Tomorrowland last Friday, where fans were treated to a surprise appearance by The Edge. The emotional performance introduced festivalgoers to a track that seamlessly blends Bono’s unmistakable vocals, U2’s timeless rock identity, and Garrix’s soaring electronic production.
The collaboration is the latest chapter in a creative relationship that has developed over several years. Most recently, Garrix produced “Scars” for U2’s latest EP, Easter Lily. He also previously worked with Bono and The Edge on the 2021 anthem “We Are The People,” which was created for the UEFA European Football Championship.
Reflecting on the release, Martin Garrix shared the personal journey behind the record.
“Fireflies has a very unique mood and it’s a special song we started working on six summers ago. It felt electrifying and very surreal to finally debut it at Tomorrowland with The Edge. I’ve worked with Bono and Edge before, but working with the whole band I got to get a glimpse of their chemistry and why U2 are who they are. They are incredible friends and collaborators, and it has been an absolute honor to work with them again.”
The Edge also reflected on the performance and the group’s ongoing collaboration with Garrix.
“We go back a long way with Martin, and there’s always a sense of adventure whenever we get together. Playing Fireflies for the first time at Tomorrowland, in front of one of the most passionate festival crowds anywhere, was such a rush… in fact I might have enjoyed it a bit too much. It reminded me of why I love playing outdoors. I like it better when there’s no ceiling.”
“Fireflies” continues an impressive run of high-profile collaborations for Martin Garrix. Earlier this year, he teamed up with Madonna on “Bizarre,” featured on her latest album, Confessions 11, a track he first premiered during his three-night run at Barclays Center in New York City. In May, he also reunited with Ed Sheeran for their long-awaited collaboration “Repeat It,” which was released alongside an acoustic version.
Musically, “Fireflies” showcases the strengths of both artists. U2’s anthemic songwriting and emotionally charged melodies blend naturally with Garrix’s polished progressive house production, resulting in a cinematic record that feels equally at home on festival main stages and radio playlists. The collaboration highlights how rock and electronic music continue to intersect, creating a sound that resonates across generations.
Fresh off the first leg of his biggest headline run to date, the Martin Garrix Americas Tour, Garrix will spend the remainder of the summer performing at major festivals across Europe. With “Fireflies,” he adds another landmark collaboration to his catalog while reaffirming his ability to unite iconic artists and contemporary dance music on a global stage.