Chris Cornell, celebrated for his powerful vocals across genres from grunge to hard rock, unveiled a poignant acoustic cover of “Nothing Compares 2 U,” a song penned by Prince and famously popularized by Sinéad O’Connor. This raw and emotionally charged rendition serves as a heartfelt tribute to the iconic songwriter, Prince, who had recently passed away. Cornell’s version, characterized by its passionate vocals and unpolished recording – where the subtle sound of his mic brushing against his guitar is audible – amplifies the song’s inherent vulnerability and deep emotion.
In a personal note accompanying the release, Cornell expressed his profound admiration for Prince and the indelible mark he left on the music world. “Prince‘s music is the soundtrack to the soulful and beautiful universe he created, and we have all been privileged to be part of that amazing world,” Cornell wrote, encapsulating the sentiment shared by millions who were touched by Prince’s artistry. He further explained his connection to the song, stating, “I performed his song ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’ for the first time a couple months ago. It has a timeless relevance for me and practically everyone I know.”
Cornell’s words took on an even deeper resonance in light of Prince’s untimely passing. “Sadly, now his own lyrics in this song could not be more relevant than at this moment, and I sing them now in reverence as I pay tribute to this unequaled artist who has given all of our lives so much inspiration and made the world so much more interesting,” he continued. His heartfelt sign-off, “We will miss you Prince!!!” echoed the collective grief and appreciation felt globally for the music legend.
The history of “Nothing Compares 2 U” adds layers to its emotional weight. Prince originally crafted the song in 1985 for The Family, a band signed to his Paisley Park Records label. Susannah Melvoin, who was briefly engaged to Prince, provided the lead vocals for the original version. However, it was Sinéad O’Connor’s 1990 rendition that catapulted the song to international fame. Featured on her album I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, O’Connor’s version, especially its iconic music video featuring her tearful close-up, became a defining hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Interestingly, Prince himself began incorporating “Nothing Compares 2 U” into his own live performances shortly after O’Connor’s version dominated airwaves. A remarkable live duet with singer Rosie Gaines was immortalized on his 1993 compilation, The Hits/The B Sides. Significantly, Prince performed “Nothing Compares 2 U” at his final full concert in Atlanta, just a week before his death, creating an even more poignant link between the song and his legacy. Chris Cornell’s cover, therefore, not only serves as a tribute but also reignites the powerful emotions embedded within a song that continues to resonate deeply with listeners worldwide.
