“Nothing Compares 2 U” is more than just a song; it’s a powerful ballad that has resonated across generations. While famously known for Sinead O’Connor’s emotionally charged rendition, the song’s origins are deeply rooted in the artistry of Prince. Originally penned for his side project, The Family, “Nothing Compares 2 U” showcases Prince’s songwriting genius and its journey to global recognition is a fascinating tale of musical evolution.
Penned by Prince, Performed by The Family
Initially released in 1985 as the sixth track on The Family’s self-titled debut album, “Nothing Compares 2 U” was a relatively obscure song for many years. The Family, a band under Prince’s Paisley Park Records, featured Paul Peterson on lead vocals for this track. Although Prince wrote the majority of the album, “Nothing Compares 2 U” stands out as the only song where he received official writing credit on the record. This early version, while showcasing the song’s inherent emotional core, remained largely unknown outside Prince’s dedicated fanbase.
Sinead O’Connor’s Global Phenomenon
The song’s trajectory changed dramatically in 1990 when Irish singer Sinead O’Connor recorded her version. Her rendition transformed “Nothing Compares 2 U” into a worldwide number one hit, catapulting the song and O’Connor to international fame. O’Connor’s raw and heart-wrenching vocal delivery, coupled with the song’s poignant lyrics about loss and longing, struck a chord with audiences globally. This cover not only highlighted the song’s universal appeal but also cemented it as a modern classic.
Prince Embraces His Song: Live Performances and Official Releases
Following Sinead O’Connor’s phenomenal success, Prince began to incorporate “Nothing Compares 2 U” into his own live performances. He recognized the song’s newfound popularity and its power to connect with audiences on a deeper level. In 1993, Prince released a live rendition of “Nothing Compares 2 U” on his compilation album “The Hits 1.” This version, featuring Rosie Gaines on shared lead vocals, was recorded live at Paisley Park Studios in 1992. This inclusion signaled Prince’s full embrace of the song within his own discography.
Prince continued to perform “Nothing Compares 2 U” consistently throughout his concerts from 1990 onwards. Further solidifying its place in his live repertoire, another live version was featured on his 2002 live album, “One Nite Alone… Live!”. This demonstrated the song’s enduring relevance in Prince’s musical journey and his acknowledgment of its significance to his fans.
The Original Prince Version Unveiled
For years, the original Prince recording of “Nothing Compares 2 U” remained unreleased. However, in 2018, a newly mixed version of Prince’s 1984 recording was finally released posthumously. This version offered a unique glimpse into Prince’s initial vision for the song. Recorded at the Flying Cloud Drive Warehouse in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, in July 1984, it features Susannah Melvoin on backing vocals and orchestral overdubs by Clare Fischer, added later in 1984 and early 1985.
This 2018 release was mixed by Tony Maserati to closely resemble Prince’s original 1984 mix. It subtly brought forward Clare Fischer’s orchestral arrangements and included Susannah Melvoin’s backing vocals, elements that were less prominent in The Family’s version. The release was accompanied by rehearsal footage from the Flying Cloud Drive Warehouse, providing fans with a behind-the-scenes look at the song’s creation. Furthermore, it was included as a bonus track on the posthumous album “Originals” in 2019, making it officially part of Prince’s core discography.
Inspiration Behind the Ballad
The emotional depth of “Nothing Compares 2 U” stems from a personal experience in Prince’s life. It is believed that the song was partly inspired by Sandy Scipioni, Prince’s personal assistant in the 1980s. Scipioni had to leave her position suddenly due to her father’s death. While their relationship was not romantic, the feeling of absence and the sudden void left by her departure resonated with Prince and influenced the song’s themes of loss and irreplaceable connection.
A Song’s Enduring Legacy
From its humble beginnings as a track on a side project album to becoming a global anthem through Sinead O’Connor’s unforgettable cover, “Nothing Compares 2 U” has had an extraordinary journey. Prince’s original version, finally released to the world, adds another layer to the song’s rich history. Whether you are moved by O’Connor’s powerful vocals or intrigued by Prince’s original soulful rendition, “Nothing Compares 2 U” remains a testament to the timeless power of music to express profound human emotions.
