Jordan Joy: Bono’s Daughter Releases Debut Single Under New Moniker, Garnering Industry Praise

In a move that has captivated both music fans and industry insiders, Jordan Hewson—eldest daughter of U2 frontman Bono—has released her first single under the stage name Jordan Joy. Titled Don’t Kill the Vibe, the track marks a bold step into the spotlight for the 36-year-old artist, who has previously released music under the moniker Tenderhooks. The song has already earned widespread acclaim, including a glowing endorsement from R.E.M. Frontman Michael Stipe, who dubbed it “the song of the summer.”

The Song: A Love Letter to Indie New York

Don’t Kill the Vibe is a dreamy, synth-infused indie-pop track that Hewson describes as a tribute to her time living in New York City. In an Instagram post announcing the release, she wrote, “Excited to share this song… Don’t Kill the Vibe is one for the kitchen party. I wanted the sound to bring me back to indie New York, and what I was listening to when I lived there.” The track was co-produced by Catherine Marks (known for her work with Wolf Alice) and Jackson Phillips of Day Wave, lending it a polished yet organic sound that blends nostalgic warmth with modern production.

The single has been featured on Apple Music’s Indie Pop playlist, a coveted placement that has introduced Hewson’s music to a broader audience. Fans can stream the track across all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.

From Tenderhooks to Jordan Joy: Hewson’s Musical Evolution

While Don’t Kill the Vibe is Hewson’s first release under the Jordan Joy name, it is far from her first foray into music. Between 2023 and 2024, she released three singles under the moniker Tenderhooks: Enemy (2023), Anything You Felt (2024), and Summer Driving Fast (2024), the latter of which included a Sunrise Remix. These tracks showcased a more experimental, introspective side of her artistry, with production credits from industry heavyweights like Andy Barlow (Lamb, U2’s Songs of Experience), Brandon Bost (Lady Gaga, U2’s You’re the Best Thing About Me music video), and Duncan Stewart, her cousin and a longtime collaborator with U2.

Hewson’s transition to the Jordan Joy moniker signals a new chapter in her musical journey. In an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music (conducted under the Tenderhooks name), she hinted at a desire to explore new sonic territories while staying true to her indie roots. The shift in branding may also reflect her growing confidence as an artist, stepping out from the shadow of her legendary father to carve her own path.

A Family of Creatives

Jordan Hewson is part of one of music’s most iconic families. Her father, Bono (Paul Hewson), is the frontman of U2, one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Her siblings are also making waves in the creative world:

• Elijah Hewson: The lead singer of Dublin-based band Inhaler, which released its third album in 2025.
• Eve Hewson: An actress who contributed vocals to the 2023 musical film Flora and Son, including the songs High Life and Meet in the Middle.
• John Hewson: An actor who starred in the RTÉ series These Sacred Vows opposite Tom Vaughan-Lawlor and will appear in the upcoming film Finnegan’s Foursome.

Despite growing up in the spotlight, Jordan has forged her own identity, both in music and beyond. A graduate of Columbia University with a degree in political science, she founded Speakable in 2016, a tech company aimed at promoting social activism. Her work earned her a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list in 2019.

Industry Reactions: Praise from Legends

The release of Don’t Kill the Vibe has sparked excitement across the music industry, with several high-profile figures publicly praising the track. Among them:

• Michael Stipe (R.E.M.): Called the song “the song of the summer,” a significant endorsement from one of alternative rock’s most influential voices.
• Julian Lennon: Son of late Beatles legend John Lennon, who shared his admiration for Hewson’s work.
• Helena Christensen and Christy Turlington: The supermodels and longtime friends of the Hewson family celebrated the release on social media.
• Jessica Alba: The actress and entrepreneur praised the track’s infectious energy.

Hewson’s ability to garner such widespread acclaim speaks to her talent and the careful craftsmanship behind Don’t Kill the Vibe. The song’s success also highlights the growing trend of artists from iconic families stepping into their own creative identities, proving that talent, not just lineage, drives their work.

What’s Next for Jordan Joy?

In her Instagram announcement, Hewson teased that Don’t Kill the Vibe is just the beginning. “More to come,” she wrote, hinting at future releases under the Jordan Joy name. Fans can sign up for her email list to stay updated on upcoming projects, including potential tours, music videos, or even a full-length album.

For now, Don’t Kill the Vibe serves as a promising introduction to Hewson’s evolving artistry. With its blend of indie-pop sensibilities and polished production, the track offers a glimpse into what could be a bright future for the artist—one where she is celebrated not just as Bono’s daughter, but as Jordan Joy in her own right.

Key Takeaways

• Debut Single: Jordan Hewson has released Don’t Kill the Vibe under the stage name Jordan Joy, marking her first official single under the new moniker.
• Musical Background: She previously released music under the name Tenderhooks, including the singles Enemy, Anything You Felt, and Summer Driving Fast.
• Production Team: The track was co-produced by Catherine Marks (Wolf Alice) and Jackson Phillips (Day Wave), with additional credits from industry veterans like Andy Barlow and Duncan Stewart.
• Industry Praise: The song has been hailed by Michael Stipe (R.E.M.), Julian Lennon, Helena Christensen, Christy Turlington, and Jessica Alba.
• Family Legacy: Hewson is part of a creative family that includes U2’s Bono, Inhaler frontman Elijah Hewson, actress Eve Hewson, and actor John Hewson.
• Beyond Music: A Columbia University graduate, Hewson founded the tech company Speakable in 2016 and was named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list in 2019.

FAQ

Who is Jordan Joy?

Jordan Joy is the stage name of Jordan Hewson, the eldest daughter of U2 frontman Bono. She is a musician, activist, and entrepreneur who has previously released music under the moniker Tenderhooks.

What is the name of Jordan Joy’s debut single?

Her debut single under the Jordan Joy name is titled Don’t Kill the Vibe.

Who produced Don’t Kill the Vibe?

The track was co-produced by Catherine Marks (known for her work with Wolf Alice) and Jackson Phillips of Day Wave.

What other music has Jordan Hewson released?

Before adopting the Jordan Joy name, Hewson released three singles under the moniker Tenderhooks: Enemy (2023), Anything You Felt (2024), and Summer Driving Fast (2024).

What has been the industry reaction to Don’t Kill the Vibe?

The song has received widespread acclaim, including praise from Michael Stipe (R.E.M.), Julian Lennon, Helena Christensen, Christy Turlington, and Jessica Alba.

What’s next for Jordan Joy?

Hewson has teased that more music is on the way, with fans encouraged to sign up for her email list for updates on future projects.