The live performance of "Empire Ants" featuring Little Dragon on the "Late Show with David Letterman" took place during a pivotal moment in Gorillaz's career. This performance occurred in 2010, shortly after the release of their third studio album, "Plastic Beach" in March of the same year. "Plastic Beach" marked a significant evolution in Gorillaz's sound, incorporating a diverse range of musical styles and collaborations with various artists. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative production and cohesive theme exploring environmental issues and consumer culture. The presence of guest artists like Little Dragon during live performances added to the dynamic and collaborative essence of the band. This performance on a prominent platform like Letterman highlighted Gorillaz's growing popularity and solidified their status as a unique force in the alternative music scene at that time.