Sinead O'Connor Nothing Compares 2 U Lyrics: The Mesmerizing Lines
by Shalini K
Updated Jul 29, 2023
Nothing Compares 2 U
"Nothing Compares 2 U" is a poignant song originally written and composed by the legendary musician Prince for one of his side projects, The Family. However, it gained widespread recognition and fame when Irish recording artist Sinéad O'Connor released her rendition as the second single from her second studio album, "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got."
Produced in collaboration with Nellee Hooper, O'Connor's version became a global hit in 1990, leaving an indelible mark on music history. The song's heartfelt lyrics delve into the depths of emotions felt by an abandoned lover, offering a raw and vulnerable perspective on longing and loss. Its profound message struck a chord with listeners worldwide, propelling it to the top of various music charts and earning critical acclaim.
The accompanying music video for "Nothing Compares 2 U" quickly attained iconic status. Its powerful imagery, combined with O'Connor's raw and emotionally charged performance, resonated deeply with audiences. The video received extensive airplay on MTV, further amplifying the song's popularity and cementing its place in pop culture.
Interestingly, Sinéad O'Connor's decision to cover the song was driven by a heartfelt motive. In a 2019 interview, she revealed that she hoped her rendition would make Prince "love her." However, the outcome turned out to be far from what she had anticipated. O'Connor described her encounter with Prince as an intimidating experience, going so far as to claim he was "the most frightening human being" she had ever met, surpassing even the fear she felt towards her own mother.
The irony of her feelings towards Prince, juxtaposed with her emotionally charged and heartfelt performance of "Nothing Compares 2 U," adds a layer of complexity to the song's narrative. It serves as a reminder that artists and their creations can have intricate and multifaceted relationships with one another, often extending beyond the boundaries of the music itself.
As the years have passed, "Nothing Compares 2 U" remains a timeless and powerful anthem of heartache and longing. Its ability to resonate with audiences across generations is a testament to the universality of its themes and the emotional depth of its lyrics.
Nothing Compares 2 U Lyrics
[Verse 1]
It's been seven hours and fifteen days
Since you took your love away
I go out every night and sleep all day
Since you took your love away
Since you've been gone I can do whatever I want
I can see whomever I choose
I can eat my dinner in a fancy restaurant
But nothing, I said, nothing can take away these blues[Chorus]
'Cause nothing compares
Nothing compares to you
[Verse 2]
It's been so lonely without you here
Like a bird without a song
Nothing can stop these lonely tears from falling
Tell me, baby, where did I go wrong?
I could put my arms around every boy I see
But they'd only remind me of you
I went to the doctor and guess what he told me, guess what he told me
He said, "Girl, you better try to have fun no matter what you do," but he's a fool
[Chorus]
'Cause nothing compares
Nothing compares to you
[Instrumental Break]
[Bridge]
All the flowers that you planted, mama, in the backyard
All died when you went away
I know that living with you, baby, was sometimes hard
But I'm willing to give it another try
[Outro]
Nothing compares
Nothing compares to you
Nothing compares
Nothing compares to you
Nothing compares
Nothing compares to you
Nothing Compares 2 U Lyrics Meaning
"Nothing Compares 2 U" is a song that has captivated millions of listeners with its powerful emotions and haunting melody. However, like many of Prince's songs, the true inspiration behind its creation remains shrouded in ambiguity. The enigmatic star never provided a definitive explanation for the song's meaning, leaving it open to interpretation and speculation.
Sinéad O'Connor, the Irish recording artist who delivered the iconic rendition of the song, expressed that she believes the song resonates with many people who have experienced some form of loss in their lives. The lyrics' emotional depth and vulnerability strike a chord with those who have grappled with the pain of parting ways with someone or something significant.
While the prevailing assumption is that the song centers around the theme of a lost lover, there have been intriguing alternate theories. One such theory suggests that the inspiration for "Nothing Compares 2 U" came from Prince's housekeeper, Sandy Scipioni. According to reports, Sandy left her job with Prince to be with her family after her father passed away.
Susan Rogers, Prince's recording engineer, shed light on Sandy's role in the artist's life, stating that she took care of his needs and made sure his home was well-maintained. From ensuring he had his favorite beverage, Five Alive, to arranging fresh flowers on the piano, Sandy played a crucial role in creating a comfortable environment for the music legend.
Some speculate that the lyrics might have been influenced by Prince's feelings of loss and appreciation for Sandy's presence in his life. It's worth noting that regardless of the specific inspiration, the beauty of "Nothing Compares 2 U" lies in its universality. The raw emotions conveyed through the lyrics allow listeners to relate the song to their own experiences of loss, heartache, or separation.
The track's timeless appeal can be attributed to its ability to evoke empathy and understanding among its audience. The song's vagueness regarding its true inspiration adds an intriguing layer of mystery, contributing to its enduring allure. In the absence of a definitive explanation from the artist himself, "Nothing Compares 2 U" has become an enigmatic and emotionally charged piece of music, open to diverse interpretations.
In conclusion, "Nothing Compares 2 U" is a song that continues to move and resonate with countless individuals worldwide. While Prince never explicitly clarified its meaning, Sinéad O'Connor's sentiment that it relates to feelings of loss strikes a chord with many. The speculation surrounding the song's inspiration, whether related to a lost lover or a cherished housekeeper, adds to its allure and leaves room for personal connection and interpretation. Ultimately, it is this emotional depth and universal appeal that has solidified "Nothing Compares 2 U" as an iconic and beloved anthem of heartache and longing.
Who wrote Nothing Compares 2 U Lyrics?
The renowned song "Nothing Compares 2 U" is attributed to the musical genius of Prince. Originally recorded by the funk band The Family, who was under Prince's Paisley Park Records label, the song did not receive significant attention upon its initial release. In 1990, the Irish singer-songwriter Sinéad O'Connor took on the song and recorded her own rendition for her second studio album, "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got."
Little did anyone know that O'Connor's version would go on to become a global sensation and a classic ballad cherished by countless fans. Upon hearing Sinéad O'Connor's rendition, Prince reportedly expressed his admiration and support for her version of "Nothing Compares 2 U." He graciously granted her the permission to record the song and even allowed her to modify the arrangement according to her artistic vision.
Collaborating with producer Nellee Hooper, O'Connor infused her unique style and emotional depth into the song, breathing new life into the already touching lyrics. The heartfelt and evocative nature of "Nothing Compares 2 U" struck a chord with audiences worldwide, propelling it to the top of music charts in numerous countries.
O'Connor's powerful delivery and the song's poignant lyrics resonated deeply with listeners, solidifying it as one of the greatest ballads of all time. Prince's influence on the music industry is undisputed, and "Nothing Compares 2 U" serves as a testament to his exceptional songwriting talents. Even though The Family's original recording of the song might not have received much recognition, O'Connor's rendition brought the song to the forefront of global acclaim.
Nothing Compares 2 U Lyrics - FAQ
The lyrics of "Nothing Compares 2 U" were written by the legendary musician, Prince.
Irish recording artist Sinéad O'Connor's rendition of "Nothing Compares 2 U" became a worldwide hit in 1990.
No, the song was originally recorded by The Family, but it was not released as a single and received little recognition.
Sinéad O'Connor's version of the song had a different arrangement, which she created in collaboration with producer Nellee Hooper.
In a 2019 interview, O'Connor mentioned that she hoped covering the song would make Prince love her, although the outcome turned out differently.