Prince(Credit: Alamy)
While Sinead O’Connor’s iconic rendition of “Nothing Compares 2 U” catapulted the song to global fame, many are surprised to learn that Did Prince Write Nothing Compares 2 U. This article delves into the surprising origins of the song, exploring its true inspiration and Prince’s reasons for giving it away.
The Unexpected Muse Behind a Heartbreak Anthem
“Nothing Compares 2 U” often evokes images of a devastating romantic breakup. However, the truth behind its creation is far more comical than tragic. The song’s inspiration wasn’t a lost love, but rather the temporary absence of Prince’s housekeeper, Sandy Scipioni.
In 1984, Scipioni took a leave of absence to attend to a family matter, leaving Prince to grapple with the mundane tasks of daily life in his Paisley Park mansion. Overwhelmed by the disarray, he channeled his frustration into songwriting. The result was “Nothing Compares 2 U,” a lament not for a romantic partner, but for the order and domesticity Scipioni provided.
Prince’s Domestic Dilemma: “When’s Sandy Coming Back?”
Susan Rogers, Prince’s sound engineer and long-time collaborator, witnessed the song’s creation firsthand. She recalls Prince repeatedly asking, “When’s Sandy coming back?” as he struggled to cope without his housekeeper. The lyrics, seemingly about romantic longing, actually reflect Prince’s dependence on Scipioni: “All the flowers that you planted in my back yard went out and died” likely refers to Scipioni’s gardening duties.
The line “And I know that living with me baby is sometimes hard, but I’m willing to give it another try” further underscores the non-romantic nature of the song. It’s not a plea to a lover, but rather an expression of Prince’s realization that life without Scipioni was more challenging than he anticipated.
Why Did Prince Give the Song Away?
Prince’s decision to give “Nothing Compares 2 U” to The Family, a band he mentored, reveals his self-awareness. According to Rogers, Prince released music based on what he wanted the world to know about him. He didn’t feel “Nothing Compares 2 U,” despite its musical brilliance, represented his artistic persona.
“Nothing Compares 2 U”: A Testament to Prince’s Songwriting Genius
While the story behind “Nothing Compares 2 U” might detract from its perceived romantic depth, it highlights Prince’s remarkable songwriting ability. He transformed a mundane domestic situation into a universally relatable song about longing and loss. The song’s enduring popularity, regardless of its true inspiration, proves its power and Prince’s genius as a songwriter. The fact remains: did Prince write Nothing Compares 2 U, and its impact on music history is undeniable.
