Her passing comes 18 months after her 17-year-old son Shane also passed away.
Irish singer-songwriter Sinéad O’Connor, celebrated for her soulful voice, raw emotion, and fearless artistry, has died at 56.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time,” the singer’s family said in a statement to RTE.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
The Irish Grammy-winning singer shot to stardom across the world in 1990 with her heartrending cover of Prince’s Nothing Compares 2 U. The emotionally charged song, accompanied by the heart-wrenching music video featuring her teary eyes, became an instant classic, propelling her to global fame. It earned her multiple Grammy nominations and solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Prior to her death, she’d released 10 albums, most recently 2014’s I’m Not Bossy, I’m the Boss.
Beyond her musical prowess, Sinéad’s unwavering authenticity and fierce dedication to social and political causes earned her both admiration and criticism. Throughout her career, she fearlessly used her platform to speak out on issues close to her heart, advocating for human rights, women’s rights, and the fight against child abuse. Her passionate activism often overshadowed her musical achievements, but she remained true to herself and her convictions.
She was also very public about her struggles with addiction and mental health, and detailed her experience in her 2021 memoir Rememberings.
In addition to her own hits, Sinead’s collaborations with other artists have left an indelible mark on the music world. Her haunting duet with Peter Gabriel on “Blood of Eden” and her mesmerizing vocals on the haunting “Biko” by Simple Minds are just a glimpse of her undeniable talent.
Tributes poured in for the adored singer after her death was announced, including Irish Foreign Minister Michael Martin, Bryan Adams, and Billy Brag, among many others.
RIP Sinéad O’Connor, I loved working with you making photos, doing gigs in Ireland together and chats, all my love to your family. pic.twitter.com/49ryuIhGTQ
— Bryan Adams (@bryanadams) July 26, 2023
As an artist who has always been unapologetically herself, fearless, outspoken and brave, Sinead O’Connor’s journey will remain an inspiring story of resilience and artistry, forever etched in the hearts of her devoted fans. Rest In Peace, Sinéad.
