“Nothing Compares 2 U” is globally recognized as a signature song, powerfully delivered by Sinead O’Connor. However, the raw emotion and poignant lyrics originated from the pen of Prince. These handwritten lyrics offer a unique glimpse into the genesis of this iconic ballad, revealing the personal depth poured into every verse.
[Image of handwritten lyrics for ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’ by Prince, showcasing pencil on paper with visible tape marks.]
Penned in pencil across two pages, these lyrics, direct from Prince’s hand, lay bare the soul-stirring words: “It’s been 7 hours & 13 days / Since u took your love away…” The rawness of heartbreak and longing permeates each line, detailing sleepless nights and the hollow experience of life after love. The lyrics express universal feelings of loss and the desperate search for something to fill the void, only to conclude, “nothing compares, nothing compares 2 u.” This repetition emphasizes the central theme of irreplaceable love and profound loneliness.
Initially recorded by Prince’s side project, The Family, in 1985, “Nothing Compares 2 U” remained relatively obscure until Sinead O’Connor’s breathtaking rendition in 1990. Her version catapulted the song to international fame, dominating the Billboard Hot 100 chart for four weeks and becoming Billboard’s #1 World Single of 1990. The accompanying music video on MTV further solidified its status as a cultural phenomenon, embedding the song in the hearts of millions.
Following O’Connor’s overwhelming success, Prince embraced the song in his own performances from 1990 onwards. He later released his own rendition in 1993 featuring Rosie Gaines, and in 2018, the original 1984 studio version was finally released as a single. In 2019, it was included in the posthumous album “Originals,” highlighting Prince’s own artistry and connection to this powerful song.
These handwritten lyrics come from the collection of Therese Stoulil, Prince’s former assistant of ten years, adding a layer of personal history. Accompanied by a letter of provenance from Stoulil, they recount how Prince’s half-brother delivered these precious pages as a gift. The presence of console marking tape still adhered to the pages offers a tangible link to Prince’s creative process, revealing how he would use these lyric sheets during recording sessions.
“Nothing Compares 2 U,” in any version, remains a testament to Prince’s songwriting genius and his ability to articulate the depths of human emotion. These handwritten lyrics are not just memorabilia; they are a tangible piece of music history, capturing the genesis of a song that continues to resonate deeply with listeners worldwide.
