Massive Attack release “Boots on the Ground” feat. Tom Waits – political, without Spotify and as a prelude to further releases.
Since their last release in 2020, Massive Attack has become a little quieter, at least musically. But now it’s that time again: the band is making its presence known. The new single “Boots on the Ground” was released on April 16, 2026, for which they sought support from Tom Waits, who contributed the vocals.
Political note
It is well known that Massive Attack repeatedly express themselves and engage in politics. For years, the duo has been clearly committed to Palestine in the context of the Middle East conflict, for example. In March 2026, Robert Del Naja was arrested at a pro-Palestine demonstration in London. As a result, he was critical of the British government.
“Boots on the Ground” also appears in a political context. The song follows the large “No Kings” and anti-ICE protests in the USA, which were against US President Donald Trump and his immigration policies. For the release, Massive Attack together with Tom Waits, in collaboration with the US photo artist thefinaley, deliver a music video that takes up the political tone and reflects the social tensions in the USA in recent years.
New release strategy
The new release comes with a label change and a previously rather unconventional release strategy. For the first time since their formation, the band is refraining from releasing the song on streaming giant Spotify. However, the single is available from other streaming providers. There also seems to be a clear message to the music world here. The track is also intended to be the start of further releases in the near future.
From July 31, 2026, “Boots on the Ground” will also be available on vinyl. On the B-side of the record you can hear another track by Tom Waits entitled “The Fly”. All proceeds from its sale will be donated to the American Civil Liberties Union and the US Immigrant Defense Project.
A great honor
On the release, Massive Attack made a statement about the collaboration with Tom Waits and the political dimension of the record: “It is a great honor to work with an artist of Tom’s stature, originality and integrity, but this track arrives in an atmosphere of chaos. Across the Western Hemisphere, state authoritarianism and the militarization of police forces are once again merging with neo-fascist politics. Against the backdrop of the American plight, both at home and abroad, this track contains echoes of callous impulses and a desperate state of mind.”
Tom Waits also commented: “Many years ago I accepted an invitation from Massive Attack to collaborate. At that time we sent them ‘Boots on the Ground’. The long delay in its release has never worried me. Today, as in all the past days of humanity, this guarantees that this song will never go out of style. Man’s folly is a feast for flies. Therefore, the B-side of Massive Attack’s upcoming 12” single ‘The Fly’ is dedicated to my appreciation for it winged pests.”
