Sinéad O’Connor, the fiercely individualistic Irish singer-songwriter, catapulted to global fame in 1990 with her breathtaking rendition of “Nothing Compares 2 U.” While O’Connor was gaining recognition with her debut album, it was her sophomore release, I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, and specifically this single, that cemented her status as an international music icon. Penned by the legendary Prince, and initially recorded by his funk project The Family in 1985, the song found its definitive voice in O’Connor’s emotionally raw and powerful delivery.
The global impact of “Nothing Compares 2 U” was undeniable. It soared to the #1 spot in the United States, Ireland, and across thirteen other nations, dominating global music charts. Furthermore, it was crowned the number one single of 1990 in Ireland, the Netherlands, and Australia, achieving remarkable positions on year-end charts in the UK (#2) and the US (#3). The song’s profound resonance extended to the Grammy Awards, earning a nomination for the prestigious Record of the Year award. The accompanying music video, equally iconic for its stark close-up of O’Connor, received a Grammy nomination and clinched the MTV Video Music Award for Video of the Year, further solidifying its cultural impact. I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, the album housing this monumental single, went on to win the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Performance in 1991.
Musically, “Nothing Compares 2 U” is notable for its poignant melody and O’Connor’s vocal performance, which imbued the lyrics with profound vulnerability and strength. A key melodic feature often highlighted is the minor sixth interval that appears in the chorus, specifically on the second repetition of “no-thing.” This interval, occurring in a relatively high register, contributes to the song’s emotional intensity and is instantly recognizable. The song’s structure is also unconventional, featuring a single-line chorus and verses of varying lengths, adding to its unique and memorable quality.
Beyond its commercial success and musical intricacies, “Nothing Compares 2 U” has become a cultural touchstone, particularly poignant after Prince’s passing. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal theme of heartbreak and loss, amplified by Sinéad O’Connor’s unforgettable performance. The song remains a powerful example for music educators, showcasing intervallic relationships and the profound impact of a song deeply connected to cultural moments.
