Irish singer-songwriter Sinéad O’Connor has died at 56.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad,” the singer’s family said in a statement. “Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”
Her cause of death has not been revealed.
In the 1990s, O’Connor rose to fame with the release of her hit cover of Prince’s song, Nothing Compares 2 U. The track earned significant recognition and was named the No. 1 World Single in 1990 by the Billboard Music Awards, as reported by the Irish Times.
Nothing Compares 2 U earned three Grammy nominations and served as the prominent single from her critically acclaimed album, I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got. The success of the song and album led to Rolling Stone giving her the prestigious title of Artist of the Year in 1991. The magazine praised her, declaring, “She proved that a recording artist could refuse to compromise and still connect with millions of listeners hungry for music of substance.”
Soon after, during her appearance on Saturday Night Live, the singer-songwriter famously tore up a photo of Pope John Paul II, as an act of protest against child sexual abuse. This bold act prompted backlash, making her a pariah in the eyes of the church, its followers, and even her longtime rival, Madonna.
However, O’Connor never apologized.
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The news of O’Connor’s death prompted reactions from celebrities on social media.
“I adored this woman from afar as a teenager,” Toni Collette wrote on Instagram. “I will always admire her. I was lucky enough to hang out with her a few times in my twenties. On one occasion we all sang in the hills of Wicklow in Eire. I sang a Jane Siberry song and Sinead then asked/encouraged me to sing one of my own. Can you imagine the terror? The intimidation? The thrill?! She was so talented, so generous, humble, resilient, courageous and true. What a voice. What a force. My heart breaks. Rest in real peace Sinead.”
Melissa Etheridge tweeted, “This is such a tragedy. What a loss. She was haunted all her life. What a talent. I remember my first Grammy show meeting this small shy Irish girl.”
Ice T wrote, “Respect to Sinead….. She stood for something… Unlike most people…. Rest Easy..”
Conor McGregor, the renowned mixed martial artist from Ireland, paid tribute to the musician, stating: “The world has lost an artist with the voice of an Angel. Ireland has lost an iconic voice and one of our absolute finest, by a long shot. And I have lost a friend. Sinead’s music will live on and continue to inspire! Rest In Peace, Sinead you are home with your son I am sure.”
R.I.P. Sinéad O’Connor.
