Nothing Compares 2 U, a timeless ballad, is most famously associated with Sinead O’Connor, but its origins and album appearances are multifaceted. COMPARE.EDU.VN delves into the history of this iconic song, exploring its original release and subsequent inclusion on various albums. Discover the different versions and albums featuring this unforgettable track, and learn why O’Connor’s rendition resonated so deeply with audiences. Explore the albums featuring this popular rendition, discover musical masterpieces and revisit timeless hits.
1. The Genesis of “Nothing Compares 2 U”
“Nothing Compares 2 U” wasn’t originally a Sinead O’Connor song. It was penned by Prince in 1984 and initially recorded by his side project, The Family. This section explores the song’s origins, Prince’s inspiration, and the initial reception of The Family’s version. Understanding the song’s roots provides context for O’Connor’s later interpretation and its widespread success.
1.1 Prince’s Inspiration and The Family’s Rendition
According to Prince’s longtime engineer, Susan Rogers, the song was inspired by the departure of his housekeeper, Sandy Scipioni. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to the song’s seemingly romantic lyrics. The Family’s version, released on their 1985 self-titled debut album, showcased a different arrangement than O’Connor’s. It was suggested to O’Connor as a cover possibility by Fachtna O’Ceallaigh, her friend and manager who she had also been dating.
1.2 Album Details: The Family (1985)
The Family’s “The Family” album, released in 1985, is a funk and soul-infused record that showcases Prince’s songwriting and production prowess. While “Nothing Compares 2 U” is a standout track, the album also features other notable songs like “High Fashion” and “Mutiny.” Despite its quality, the album didn’t achieve mainstream success, and The Family disbanded shortly after its release. The album is a demonstration of his broad musical capabilities, including soul, funk, and pop components, in addition to “Nothing Compares 2 U”.
2. Sinead O’Connor’s Breakthrough: I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got
Sinead O’Connor’s 1990 album, I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, catapulted her to international fame. This section focuses on the album’s impact, the unique arrangement of “Nothing Compares 2 U,” and the powerful music video that accompanied the song. We’ll delve into the raw emotion and vulnerability O’Connor brought to the track, making it her signature song.
2.1 I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got: A Critical and Commercial Triumph
Released in 1990, I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got was a critical and commercial success, topping charts worldwide. The album showcased O’Connor’s diverse musical style, blending elements of alternative rock, folk, and pop. However, it was “Nothing Compares 2 U” that truly captured the public’s attention.
2.2 The Arrangement and O’Connor’s Vocal Delivery
O’Connor’s version of “Nothing Compares 2 U” featured a stripped-down arrangement compared to The Family’s original. With the help of Soul II Soul maestro Nellee Hooper, the song was transformed into a haunting ballad, driven by O’Connor’s powerful and emotive vocals. Her delivery was raw and vulnerable, conveying a sense of heartbreak and longing that resonated with listeners worldwide.
2.3 The Iconic Music Video
The music video for “Nothing Compares 2 U,” directed by John Maybury, played a significant role in the song’s success. The video featured close-ups of O’Connor’s face, conveying a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The tears that streamed down her face during the video were genuine, inspired by thoughts of her recently deceased mother. The video became an instant classic, further solidifying O’Connor’s status as a music icon.
3. “Nothing Compares 2 U” on Compilation Albums
Given its popularity, “Nothing Compares 2 U” has appeared on numerous compilation albums over the years. This section explores some of these compilations, highlighting the different contexts in which the song has been presented. These compilations showcase the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to transcend genres and generations.
3.1 Various Artists Compilations
“Nothing Compares 2 U” has been included on various artists compilations focusing on 1990s hits, love songs, and female vocalists. These compilations often place the song alongside other iconic tracks from the era, highlighting its cultural significance.
3.2 Sinead O’Connor Compilation Albums
O’Connor’s own compilation albums also feature “Nothing Compares 2 U,” often as the centerpiece of the collection. These compilations offer a comprehensive overview of her career, showcasing her diverse musical styles and her powerful voice.
4. Live Albums and Performances
Sinead O’Connor was known for her captivating live performances, and “Nothing Compares 2 U” was a staple of her concerts. This section explores live albums and recorded performances of the song, capturing the energy and emotion of her live shows. These live renditions often offer a different perspective on the song, showcasing O’Connor’s improvisational skills and her connection with the audience.
4.1 Live Albums Featuring “Nothing Compares 2 U”
Several live albums capture O’Connor’s performances of “Nothing Compares 2 U,” allowing listeners to experience the song in a live setting. These albums often include extended versions of the song, with O’Connor interacting with the audience and adding her own personal touches.
4.2 Notable Live Performances
O’Connor’s live performances of “Nothing Compares 2 U” were often emotionally charged, reflecting her personal experiences and her connection with the song’s lyrics. Some notable live performances include her MTV Unplugged performance and her various appearances at music festivals around the world.
5. “Nothing Compares 2 U”: Beyond Sinead O’Connor
While Sinead O’Connor’s version is the most well-known, “Nothing Compares 2 U” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres. This section explores some of these covers, highlighting the different interpretations and styles brought to the song. These covers demonstrate the song’s versatility and its ability to resonate with artists from different backgrounds.
5.1 Notable Covers by Other Artists
Artists like Aretha Franklin, Chris Cornell, and Macy Gray have all covered “Nothing Compares 2 U,” each bringing their own unique style to the song. These covers showcase the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to be reinterpreted in different ways.
5.2 Genre Variations
“Nothing Compares 2 U” has been covered in various genres, including soul, rock, and jazz. These genre variations demonstrate the song’s versatility and its ability to transcend musical boundaries.
6. The Legacy of “Nothing Compares 2 U”
“Nothing Compares 2 U” remains a timeless classic, continuing to resonate with audiences today. This section explores the song’s enduring legacy, its impact on popular culture, and its place in Sinead O’Connor’s discography. We’ll examine why the song has remained so popular over the years and its continued relevance in contemporary music.
6.1 Enduring Popularity and Cultural Impact
“Nothing Compares 2 U” has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in popular culture. The song’s themes of love, loss, and longing continue to resonate with audiences of all ages.
6.2 The Song’s Place in Sinead O’Connor’s Career
While O’Connor had a complex relationship with “Nothing Compares 2 U,” it remains her signature song and a defining moment in her career. The song’s success allowed her to reach a wider audience and express her unique artistic vision.
7. Sinead O’Connor’s Other Notable Albums
While “Nothing Compares 2 U” is inextricably linked to I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, O’Connor had a prolific and diverse career beyond that album. This section briefly highlights some of her other notable albums, showcasing her range and artistic evolution.
7.1 The Lion and the Cobra (1987)
O’Connor’s debut album, The Lion and the Cobra, established her as a force to be reckoned with. The album featured a mix of alternative rock, new wave, and Celtic influences, showcasing her powerful vocals and her politically charged lyrics.
7.2 Universal Mother (1994)
Universal Mother saw O’Connor exploring themes of motherhood, spirituality, and social justice. The album featured a mix of original songs and traditional Irish folk songs, reflecting her cultural heritage.
7.3 Theology (2007)
Theology was a more experimental album, featuring stripped-down arrangements and introspective lyrics. The album explored themes of faith, doubt, and personal transformation.
8. Prince’s Perspective on “Nothing Compares 2 U”
While Prince gave the song away early in his career, he later reclaimed it and performed it himself. This section explores Prince’s perspective on “Nothing Compares 2 U,” examining his live performances and his views on O’Connor’s rendition. Understanding Prince’s perspective provides a fuller picture of the song’s history and its significance to both artists.
8.1 Prince’s Live Performances of the Song
In later years, Prince began performing “Nothing Compares 2 U” in his live shows, often dedicating it to O’Connor. These performances offered a different interpretation of the song, showcasing Prince’s signature guitar playing and his soulful vocals.
8.2 Prince’s Views on O’Connor’s Version
While Prince rarely spoke publicly about O’Connor’s version of the song, it’s clear that he recognized its impact and its connection to her unique artistry. His decision to reclaim the song in his later years suggests a sense of pride in its enduring legacy.
9. The Controversy Surrounding Sinead O’Connor
Sinead O’Connor was no stranger to controversy, and her outspoken views often overshadowed her music. This section briefly addresses some of the controversies surrounding her career, providing context for her artistic choices and her complex relationship with fame.
9.1 The National Anthem Incident
In 1990, O’Connor refused to perform the National Anthem at a concert in New Jersey, sparking outrage and criticism. This incident highlighted her willingness to challenge societal norms and her commitment to her beliefs.
9.2 Tearing Up the Pope’s Photo on Saturday Night Live
O’Connor’s most infamous act of protest was tearing up a photo of Pope John Paul II on Saturday Night Live in 1992. This act was in protest of the Catholic Church’s handling of sexual abuse allegations, and it resulted in widespread condemnation and a significant backlash against her career.
10. Remembering Sinead O’Connor
Sinead O’Connor’s passing in 2023 was a significant loss to the music world. This section pays tribute to her legacy, celebrating her unique talent, her courage, and her enduring impact on music and culture. We’ll reflect on her contributions and her lasting influence on future generations of artists.
10.1 Tributes and Reactions to Her Death
Following her death, tributes poured in from fellow musicians, fans, and cultural figures, all acknowledging her talent and her impact on the world. These tributes highlighted her courage, her honesty, and her commitment to social justice.
10.2 Her Lasting Impact on Music and Culture
Sinead O’Connor’s music continues to inspire and challenge listeners today. Her fearless approach to music and her willingness to speak out on important issues have made her a role model for artists and activists around the world. Her legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.
“Nothing Compares 2 U” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a testament to the power of raw emotion, and a reminder of Sinead O’Connor’s unique talent. From its origins as a Prince-penned track to its iconic status as O’Connor’s signature song, “Nothing Compares 2 U” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About “Nothing Compares 2 U”
1. Who originally wrote “Nothing Compares 2 U”?
The song was written by Prince.
2. Which album featured The Family’s version of “Nothing Compares 2 U”?
The Family’s version appeared on their self-titled debut album, released in 1985.
3. Which album made Sinead O’Connor’s version of “Nothing Compares 2 U” famous?
Sinead O’Connor’s version was featured on her 1990 album, I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got.
4. Was “Nothing Compares 2 U” Sinead O’Connor’s only major hit?
Yes, “Nothing Compares 2 U” was her only major Billboard Hot 100 hit.
5. What inspired the tears in the music video for “Nothing Compares 2 U”?
Sinead O’Connor has said that the tears were inspired by thoughts of her recently deceased mother.
6. Did Sinead O’Connor win any awards for “Nothing Compares 2 U”?
The music video for “Nothing Compares 2 U” won Video of the Year at the 1990 MTV Video Music Awards. The song was also nominated for Record of the Year at the 1991 Grammy Awards.
7. Did Prince ever perform “Nothing Compares 2 U” himself?
Yes, in later years, Prince began performing the song in his live shows.
8. Why did Sinead O’Connor tear up a photo of the Pope on Saturday Night Live?
It was an act of protest against the Catholic Church’s handling of sexual abuse allegations.
9. How did Sinead O’Connor feel about the success of “Nothing Compares 2 U”?
She had a complex relationship with the song, feeling that it both helped and hindered her career.
10. What is Sinead O’Connor’s legacy?
She is remembered as a talented and courageous artist who challenged societal norms and spoke out on important issues.
