Bono Jokes He Felt “Like a Stalker” Asking Rosalía for Permission

U2 frontman Bono has jokingly recalled feeling “like a stalker” when he reached out to Rosalía to ask for permission to release a song inspired by her.

The Irish rock band is preparing to release its 16th studio album, “Carnaval de Luz,” which includes the track “The Mirror Maker (Rosalía).”

In an interview with Rolling Stone, Bono, whose real name is Paul Hewson, revealed that he was deeply inspired by Rosalía’s 2025 album, “Lux.”

The singer explained that mutual friend Penélope Cruz eventually helped connect him with the Spanish superstar.

“I called Penélope and said, ‘What am I gonna do?’ She said, ‘Just call her.’ I’m like, ‘I look like a stalker,’” Bono recalled.

However, Rosalía responded positively and quickly gave the song her approval.

“She’s been really encouraging, and made me laugh a lot,” said the 66-year-old singer, who admitted that he has never actually met Rosalía in person.

Bono also joked that he is still working up the courage to send her the final mix of the song.

Elsewhere in the interview, the U2 frontman praised Rosalía as an artist capable of going “through the mirror,” comparing her creative impact to artists such as Patti Smith, who inspired him when he was younger.

“Certainly, Rosalía is one of them,” Bono said, praising her courage and sense of humor. He added that her artistry goes beyond the physical world, saying, “There’s not just physics, there’s metaphysics.”

“Carnaval de Luz,” which also features the single “Silencio,” is scheduled for release on November 13.