Sinead O’Connor, the Irish singer-songwriter and activist who shook the world with her 1990 single “Nothing Compares 2 U,” has died. She was 56.

O’Connor’s death was confirmed by her manager, who said she died by suicide.

O’Connor was born in Dublin in 1966. She began her music career in the early 1980s, and her debut album, “The Lion and the Cobra,” was released in 1987. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it launched O’Connor into the spotlight.

O’Connor’s second album, “I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got,” was released in 1990. The album featured the hit single “Nothing Compares 2 U,” a Prince cover,m which became a worldwide sensation. O’Connor’s career was at its peak, but her personal life was beginning to unravel.

In 1992, O’Connor appeared on Saturday Night Live and tore up a picture of the Pope. The act was seen as a protest against child abuse in the Catholic Church, but it caused a huge backlash. O’Connor was dropped from her record label, and she was subjected to death threats and abuse.

In the years that followed, O’Connor continued to struggle with mental illness and addiction. She made headlines for her erratic behavior, including suicide attempts and public meltdowns. However, she also continued to make music, and she released several albums in the 1990s and 2000s.

In recent years, O’Connor had made a comeback. Despite battling severe mental health trials and tribulations, she released new music, and toured extensively. She had also become an advocate for mental health awareness.

O’Connor’s death is a loss for the music world and for all who knew her. She was a talented singer, songwriter, and activist who used her platform to speak out against injustice. She will be remembered for her powerful voice, her unflinching honesty, and her commitment to making the world a better place.

Tributes to O’Connor have poured in from fans and fellow musicians.

“Sinead O’Connor was a fearless truth teller,” wrote Bono on Twitter. “Her music touched my soul, and her words challenged me to think differently about the world. She will be deeply missed.”

“Sinead O’Connor was a true original,” wrote Madonna on Instagram. “Her voice was both beautiful and haunting, and her words were powerful and provocative. She was a fearless artist who used her platform to speak out against injustice. She will be missed by so many.”

O’Connor’s death is a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. There are many resources available, including the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.