Sinéad O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U” is undeniably iconic, but understanding who truly brought the song to life involves exploring its origins and impact. COMPARE.EDU.VN delves into the story behind this powerful ballad, examining both Prince’s original composition and O’Connor’s unforgettable interpretation. Discover the artists, the stories, and the lasting legacy of this timeless track, along with related insights into musical artistry, emotional expression, and cultural impact.
1. Who Originally Wrote And Performed “Nothing Compares 2 U?”
Prince wrote “Nothing Compares 2 U,” and The Family, his side project, originally performed the song in 1985. Although Prince penned this heart-wrenching ballad, it was Sinéad O’Connor’s rendition in 1990 that catapulted the song to global fame. While Prince’s version showcases his songwriting genius, O’Connor’s emotionally raw and vulnerable performance resonated deeply with audiences.
1.1. The Family’s Version: A Glimpse into Prince’s Vault
The Family’s rendition, featuring lead vocals by Paul Peterson (St. Paul), offered a soulful, albeit less widely known, introduction to the song. Before Sinéad O’Connor’s version, it remained a hidden gem within Prince’s extensive catalog, appreciated by dedicated fans but not yet a mainstream hit. This original recording provides a fascinating contrast to O’Connor’s later interpretation, highlighting Prince’s initial vision for the song.
1.2. Prince’s Later Release: Reclaiming His Composition
After Sinéad O’Connor’s version became a massive hit, Prince eventually released his own studio recording of “Nothing Compares 2 U” in 2018. Recorded in 1984, this version allowed listeners to hear Prince’s original intent and stylistic choices for the song. The release sparked renewed interest in the song’s authorship and the different artistic approaches taken by Prince and O’Connor.
2. Who Made “Nothing Compares 2 U” Famous?
Sinéad O’Connor’s 1990 cover of “Nothing Compares 2 U” is what made the song a global phenomenon. Her distinctive voice, combined with a powerful and emotionally charged music video, transformed the song into an anthem of heartbreak and longing. While Prince wrote the song, O’Connor’s interpretation is the one most people associate with the track.
2.1. The Impact of Sinéad O’Connor’s Rendition
O’Connor’s version topped charts around the world, becoming one of the defining songs of the 1990s. Her shaved head, her intense gaze, and the raw emotion she conveyed in the music video created an unforgettable image that remains iconic to this day. The song earned her critical acclaim, numerous awards, and solidified her place in music history.
2.2. The Music Video: A Visual Masterpiece
The music video for “Nothing Compares 2 U” is as iconic as the song itself. Directed by John Maybury, the video features a close-up of O’Connor’s face as she sings the song with intense emotion, tears streaming down her cheeks. The simplicity and vulnerability of the video amplified the song’s emotional impact, making it a cultural touchstone.
3. What Is the Song “Nothing Compares 2 U” About?
“Nothing Compares 2 U” explores the profound sense of loss and emptiness experienced after a relationship ends. The lyrics convey the singer’s deep sorrow and the realization that no one can replace the person they have lost. While the specific inspiration for the song is debated, its universal themes of love, loss, and longing resonate with listeners of all backgrounds.
3.1. Prince’s Inspiration: A Personal Loss?
Some believe Prince wrote the song about the loss of his housekeeper and close friend, Sandy Scipioni, who had left his employment to care for her father. Others suggest it was inspired by his parents’ divorce, a deeply traumatic event in his childhood. Regardless of the specific inspiration, the song clearly taps into universal feelings of heartbreak and separation.
3.2. Sinéad O’Connor’s Interpretation: A Mother’s Love?
Sinéad O’Connor has stated that she channeled her feelings about her difficult relationship with her mother when singing the song. This personal connection added another layer of emotional depth to her performance, making it even more powerful and relatable for listeners who had experienced similar losses or strained relationships.
4. Why Is Sinéad O’Connor’s Version So Emotionally Powerful?
Several factors contribute to the emotional power of Sinéad O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U.” Her distinctive voice, characterized by its vulnerability and rawness, conveys the song’s message with unparalleled intensity. The minimalist arrangement, featuring simple instrumentation, allows her vocals to take center stage, further amplifying the emotional impact. Moreover, O’Connor’s own personal experiences of loss and pain infused her performance with a depth of authenticity that resonated deeply with listeners.
4.1. Vocal Delivery: Raw and Vulnerable
O’Connor’s vocal delivery is marked by its raw emotion and vulnerability. Her voice cracks and trembles at times, conveying a sense of genuine pain and heartbreak. This unfiltered emotion makes the song feel incredibly personal and relatable, as if she is sharing her deepest feelings with the listener.
4.2. Minimalist Arrangement: Amplifying the Emotion
The song’s minimalist arrangement, featuring simple instrumentation, allows O’Connor’s vocals to take center stage. The absence of elaborate production or instrumentation creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, further amplifying the emotional impact of her performance. The focus remains squarely on her voice and the story it tells.
5. How Did “Nothing Compares 2 U” Affect Sinéad O’Connor’s Career?
“Nothing Compares 2 U” catapulted Sinéad O’Connor to international fame, but it also presented her with challenges. The song’s massive success led to increased scrutiny and pressure, which she struggled to handle. O’Connor’s outspokenness and controversial actions, such as tearing up a picture of Pope John Paul II on Saturday Night Live, often overshadowed her musical talent, creating a complex and often turbulent relationship with the public.
5.1. International Stardom: A Double-Edged Sword
While “Nothing Compares 2 U” brought O’Connor international stardom, it also placed her under intense media scrutiny. Her every move was analyzed and dissected, and her outspoken views often sparked controversy. This constant attention took a toll on her, and she often expressed discomfort with the trappings of fame.
5.2. Artistic Integrity vs. Commercial Expectations
O’Connor often clashed with record labels and the music industry over creative control and artistic integrity. She refused to conform to traditional pop star expectations and insisted on making music that was true to herself, even if it meant sacrificing commercial success. This unwavering commitment to her artistic vision earned her respect from some, but also alienated others.
6. What Were Some Controversies Surrounding Sinéad O’Connor?
Sinéad O’Connor was known for her outspoken views on religion, politics, and social issues, which often sparked controversy. Her most infamous act was tearing up a picture of Pope John Paul II on Saturday Night Live in 1992 to protest child abuse in the Catholic Church. This act led to widespread condemnation and significantly impacted her career.
6.1. The SNL Incident: A Protest Against Abuse
O’Connor’s decision to tear up the Pope’s picture on Saturday Night Live was a deliberate act of protest against the Catholic Church’s handling of child abuse cases. While her intentions were to raise awareness of a serious issue, her actions were widely condemned by the public and the media. The incident became a defining moment in her career and significantly impacted her public image.
6.2. Subsequent Backlash and Impact
Following the SNL incident, O’Connor faced widespread backlash, including boycotts of her music and public criticism. Her career suffered as a result, and she struggled to regain the mainstream success she had achieved with “Nothing Compares 2 U.” However, she remained committed to her activism and continued to speak out on issues she believed in.
7. How Did Prince Feel About Sinéad O’Connor’s Version?
Prince’s feelings about Sinéad O’Connor’s version of “Nothing Compares 2 U” were complex and reportedly fraught with tension. While he recognized the song’s success was largely due to her interpretation, some accounts suggest he felt possessive of the song and resentful of the attention she received. O’Connor herself has described a disturbing encounter with Prince that further complicated their relationship.
7.1. Conflicting Accounts and Interpretations
Sources differ on Prince’s true feelings about O’Connor’s version of his song. Some suggest he was proud of her success and recognized her unique talent, while others claim he felt his own artistry was overshadowed. The truth likely lies somewhere in between, as Prince was known for his complex and often contradictory personality.
7.2. O’Connor’s Account of Meeting Prince
In her memoir, O’Connor described a disturbing encounter with Prince in which he allegedly became aggressive and physically threatening. This account sheds light on the complex dynamics between the two artists and suggests that their relationship was far from amicable. The incident further fueled speculation about Prince’s true feelings about her version of his song.
8. What Other Artists Have Covered “Nothing Compares 2 U?”
Numerous artists have covered “Nothing Compares 2 U” over the years, demonstrating the song’s enduring appeal and versatility. From Aretha Franklin to Chris Cornell, many singers have put their own spin on the classic ballad. These covers highlight the song’s ability to transcend genres and generations.
8.1. Notable Covers and Interpretations
Some notable covers of “Nothing Compares 2 U” include versions by Aretha Franklin, who brought her signature soulful style to the song, and Chris Cornell, who delivered a powerful and emotionally charged rock rendition. Each artist brings their own unique perspective to the song, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal.
8.2. The Song’s Enduring Appeal
The fact that so many artists have covered “Nothing Compares 2 U” is a testament to its timeless quality and universal themes. The song’s message of love, loss, and longing continues to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making it a popular choice for covers and reinterpretations.
9. What Is Sinéad O’Connor’s Legacy?
Sinéad O’Connor’s legacy extends far beyond “Nothing Compares 2 U.” She was a fearless and uncompromising artist who used her music and platform to speak out on important social and political issues. Her outspokenness and willingness to challenge the status quo made her a controversial figure, but also earned her the respect of many who admired her courage and integrity.
9.1. Musical Contributions and Influence
O’Connor’s musical contributions include several critically acclaimed albums and numerous memorable songs. Her distinctive voice and songwriting style influenced a generation of female artists, and her willingness to experiment with different genres and sounds paved the way for other musicians to push creative boundaries.
9.2. Activism and Social Commentary
O’Connor was a passionate activist who used her platform to speak out on issues such as child abuse, women’s rights, and social justice. Her outspokenness often sparked controversy, but she remained committed to her beliefs and continued to advocate for those who were marginalized or oppressed.
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FAQ About “Who Sings Nothing Compares”
1. Did Prince and Sinéad O’Connor ever perform “Nothing Compares 2 U” together?
No, Prince and Sinéad O’Connor never performed “Nothing Compares 2 U” together. While both artists recorded and released versions of the song, they never shared the stage to perform it as a duet.
2. Was Sinéad O’Connor’s version of “Nothing Compares 2 U” a bigger hit than Prince’s?
Yes, Sinéad O’Connor’s version of “Nothing Compares 2 U” was a much bigger hit than Prince’s original recording. O’Connor’s version topped charts around the world and became one of the defining songs of the 1990s, while Prince’s original version remained relatively obscure until his posthumous release in 2018.
3. What awards did Sinéad O’Connor win for “Nothing Compares 2 U?”
Sinéad O’Connor won numerous awards for “Nothing Compares 2 U,” including the MTV Video Music Award for Video of the Year in 1990. The song also earned her Grammy nominations and other accolades, solidifying its place in music history.
4. What was the significance of Sinéad O’Connor’s shaved head?
Sinéad O’Connor shaved her head as a statement against traditional beauty standards and the objectification of women in the music industry. She wanted to be judged on her talent and music, rather than her appearance. Her shaved head became a symbol of her rebellion and individuality.
5. Did Sinéad O’Connor write any of her own songs?
Yes, Sinéad O’Connor was a talented songwriter who wrote many of her own songs. While she is best known for her cover of “Nothing Compares 2 U,” she also wrote and performed numerous original songs that showcased her unique voice and perspective.
6. What were some of the social issues that Sinéad O’Connor advocated for?
Sinéad O’Connor advocated for a variety of social issues, including child abuse awareness, women’s rights, and social justice. She used her platform to speak out against injustice and to advocate for those who were marginalized or oppressed.
7. How did the SNL incident affect Sinéad O’Connor’s career?
The SNL incident, in which Sinéad O’Connor tore up a picture of Pope John Paul II, had a significant negative impact on her career. She faced widespread backlash and boycotts, and her mainstream success declined as a result.
8. What is Sinéad O’Connor’s most famous album?
Sinéad O’Connor’s most famous album is “I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got,” which was released in 1990 and featured her hit song “Nothing Compares 2 U.” The album was a critical and commercial success, earning her numerous awards and solidifying her place in music history.
9. What made Sinéad O’Connor a unique artist?
Sinéad O’Connor was a unique artist due to her distinctive voice, her fearless approach to music, and her outspoken views on social and political issues. She was never afraid to challenge the status quo and to express herself authentically, even if it meant facing controversy.
10. How can I learn more about Sinéad O’Connor’s life and career?
You can learn more about Sinéad O’Connor’s life and career by reading her memoir, “Rememberings,” or by exploring documentaries and articles about her. Her music and interviews also provide valuable insights into her artistic vision and personal experiences.
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