Sinead O’Connor performing live. Photo Credit: XIIIfromTOKYO
Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor has passed away at the age of 56, her family and team have revealed.
The “Nothing Compares 2 U” vocalist’s family confirmed the unfortunate news to the Irish Times. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad,” reads the brief provided comment. “Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”
Additional information, including details about the “Drink Before the War” act’s cause of death, hadn’t been posted to O’Connor’s website or social media accounts when this piece was published. But in what would prove to be her final tweet, the artist earlier in July seemed to refer to the death of her son Shane, who’d committed suicide in January of 2022.
Moreover, the controversial Grammy winner had publicly discussed her traumatic upbringing (“She ran a torture chamber,” O’Connor said of the abuse her mother had allegedly inflicted upon her), mental-health battles, and related struggles on multiple occasions.
Moving beyond these personal difficulties and returning to O’Connor’s professional accomplishments, the Rememberings author released 10 studio albums during her decades-long career, including the critically acclaimed I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got (1990). A final album, No Veteran Dies Alone, as well as a corresponding world tour had been expected to arrive in 2022, but both were nixed following the aforementioned passing of O’Connor’s son.
On social media, a number of celebrities, fans, and fellow artists are offering kind words and celebrating the life of Sinéad O’Connor.
“RIP Sinéad O’Connor, I loved working with you making photos, doing gigs in Ireland together and chats, all my love to your family,” wrote Bryan Adams.
“The world has lost an artist with the voice of an Angel,” penned Dublin-born UFC star Conor McGregor. “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.”
“Today we join the music community in mourning the loss of legendary singer Sinéad O’Connor,” weighed in SoundExchange. “For decades her performances have inspired the world, spreading an everlasting influence on pop and alternative music.”
“I am very saddened to hear the news of the passing of Sinead O’Connor,” tweeted a fan. “Her music and pure emotions touched me deeply. Truly talented and gifted. Rest in peace.”