In a testament to the profound impact Sinéad O’Connor had on the world of music and beyond, thousands of mourners gathered in Ireland on Tuesday, August 8 to bid farewell during a moving ceremony.
O’Connor sadly passed away on Wednesday, July 26 at the age of 56.
At the time, O’Connor’s family released a statement announcing the passing of the Nothing Compares 2 U hitmaker.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad,” the statement read.
“Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”
The sudden loss of the beloved Irish singer-songwriter sent shockwaves through the music community and left her fans reeling with grief. This grief was on full display among the thousands-strong crowd who had gathered to bid farewell.
Following a private funeral held for loved ones and friends which included the likes of Bono and Bob Geldof, the iconic singer was farewelled by thousands of fans who had lined the streets of Bray to pay their respects during the funeral procession.
Heartbroken fans tossed flowers on the hearse as it made its way through the streets, led by a VW camper van that played some of her well-known songs, it wasn’t long before those gathered joined to sing her iconic hit Nothing Compares 2 U.
Nobody ever has to ask if Sinead O’Connor was loved. The air is filled with sadness and heartfelt love in equal measures. #SineadOConnor pic.twitter.com/wuAy2VuaSc
— Emma McMenamy (@emmamcm) August 8, 2023
Following the overwhelming turnout from her adoring fans, Irish President Michael D Higgins refelcted on O’Connor’s legacy.
“The outpouring of grief and appreciation of the life and work of Sinead O’Connor demonstrates the profound impact which she had on the Irish people,” he said in a statement.
While those in attendance mourned her loss they no doubt celebrated her lasting impact on the world of music.
O’Connor made her music debut with the highly acclaimed album The Lion and the Cobra in 1987, paving the way for her groundbreaking success with I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got in 1990, featuring the unforgettable hit Nothing Compares 2 U.
Over the course of her career, she released ten studio albums, including Am I Not Your Girl? in 1992 and Universal Mother in 1994, both of which achieved prestigious gold status in the UK. Faith and Courage in 2000 garnered gold recognition in Australia, while Throw Down Your Arms in 2005 earned the coveted gold certification in Ireland.
Her commitment to exploring spirituality, championing activism, delving into socio-political matters, and confronting personal battles endeared her to a global fan base.