Iconic Irish singer/songwriter Sinead O’Connor has died aged 56 – her family issued a statement yesterday saying – “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 Dublin born singer shot to global fame with her recording of a Prince song Nothing Compares to You in 1990 but also delivered 10 studio albums that were received positively by critics.
The singer acknowledged mental health difficulties at several times in her life and was deeply saddened by the death of her son Shane in January 2022. Sinead was married 4 times and is survived by her father John and 4 siblings and three children.
The President Michael D. Higgins has extended his deepest condolences to her family to all those with whom she shared her life. President Higgins says to have accomplished all she did while carrying the burden which she did was a powerful achievement in its own way. Fans and fellow artists around the world have been paying tribute to Sinead with many recognising her bravery and willingness to take a stand on issues including child abuse and women’s rights.
In 2018, Sinead converted to Islam and changed her name to Shuhada Sadaqat.
Ms O’Connor performed in Thurles at the Feile in 2019 and was very gracious to fans she met during her visit to Tipperary.
