Gorillaz have released “The Manifesto”, the second single from their upcoming ninth studio album, “The Mountain”. The song features a powerful surprise – a verse from the late Detroit rapper Proof, Eminem’s closest friend and D12 co-founder.
First, the tracklist of the album appeared, featuring Proof’s name and sparking intense speculation among fans. A short clip first appeared on the Groove Bones Selecta Juke Box at Kong Studios on October 6, 2025, all by confirming what anyone hoped for. Two days later, the full seven-minute track dropped across streaming platforms, delivering what listeners wanted to hear: Proof’s unmistakable voice layered over Gorillaz’s trademark sound.
A Connection to Demon Days
In all probability, “The Manifesto” may have originated during the Demon Days sessions. That 2005 record, Gorillaz’s second studio album, explored humanity’s self-destructive tendencies and inner demons. The new song continues that spirit, blending haunting melodies with sharp commentary on modern chaos.
Proof’s verse adds a raw, emotional punch. His deep, raspy delivery carries both swagger and darkness, matching Gorillaz’s funky, cinematic instrumentals. Lyrically, it is intricate yet meaningful – a perfect fit for the band’s surreal aesthetic. His section sits between two verses by Argentine rapper Trueno, bridging contrasting moods across the track.
The Visual and the Legacy
The song’s visualiser shows a hazy studio sequence of Proof recording his part. It is a bittersweet moment for fans who have not heard new material from him in nearly two decades.
This marks Proof’s first official new release since his family regained control of his estate. Legal disputes after his death had delayed any new material for years. Now, his legacy returns to the public ear, offering both old fans and new listeners a powerful reminder of his skill and presence.
The Manifesto stands as both a bold creative experiment and a heartfelt tribute. It’s a reunion across time with one of Detroit’s most gifted MC, and a celebration of a voice the world lost too soon. For many fans, it feels like Proof’s voice has finally come home through the unexpected world of Gorillaz.
