Singer-turned-activist Sinéad O’Connor has recently passed away.
The news was announced by her family, saying that they are devastated by the passing, though made no mention as to the cause of death.
Most known for her rendition of Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U”, O’Connor was described by Irish President Michael D Higgins as “one of our greatest and most gifted composers, songwriters and performers of recent decades.”
As an activist, the singer was infamous for tearing up a photo of Pope John Paul II during a performance on “Saturday Night Live” to protest child sexual abuse in the Catholic Church.
Many took to social media to express their sadness over the loss. Rock band Garbage wrote, “This disgusting world broke her and kept on breaking her. Godspeed dear fragile dove. Thank you for all the beauty and all the wise teachings you offered up to us.”
Hip Hop star Ice T posted, “Respect to Sinead…. She stood for something… Unlike most people…. Rest Easy.”
Meanwhile, Iris MMA champion Connor McGregor tweeted, “Ireland has lost an iconic voice and one of our absolute finest, by a long shot. And I have lost a friend. Sinead’s music will live on and continue to inspire! Rest In Peace, Sinead you are home with your son I am sure.”
Her son Shane O’Connor passed away of an apparent suicide last year at 17.
The singer converted to Islam and changed her name to Shuhada in 2018. She was 56.
