Overview
Timelines
Conversion to Islam and Later Life
Awards and Recognition
Later Music Career and Legacy
Overview and main events
Activism and Public Statements
Continued Music Career and Activism
Music Career Beginnings
Collaborations and Charity Work
Early Life and Education
Mainstream Success and Controversy
Personal Life and Relationships
Chronicle
Articles
Sinéad O'Connor. Overview and main events
Overview and main events
Sinéad O'Connor, born Sinéad Marie Bernadette O'Connor on December 8, 1966, and later known as Shuhada' Sadaqat, was a renowned Irish singer, songwriter, and activist. Her career was marked by both immense musical success and significant controversy, making her a pivotal figure in the music industry and a vocal advocate for various social and political causes.
December 8, 1966
Birth
Sinéad Marie Bernadette O'Connor was born at the Cascia House Nursing Home in Dublin, Ireland. This marked the beginning of a life that would be filled with music, activism, and controversy.
1985
Discovery and Signing with Ensign Records
While singing with the pub-rock band Ton Ton Macoute in Dublin, O'Connor attracted the attention of London-based record label Ensign Records. She was asked to submit a demo tape, which led to her signing a contract with the label and beginning work on her debut album.
1987
Release of Debut Album: The Lion and the Cobra
O'Connor released her debut studio album, "The Lion and the Cobra", which achieved international chart success and critical praise. The album's lead single, 'Mandinka,' became her first European hit and set the stage for her signature sound.
1990
Release of I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got and 'Nothing Compares 2 U'
Her second album, "I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got", was her biggest commercial success, selling over seven million copies worldwide. The lead single, 'Nothing Compares 2 U,' a cover of a Prince song, became a number one single and was honored as the top world single of the year at the Billboard Music Awards.
October 3, 1992
Controversy on Saturday Night Live
During her second performance on "Saturday Night Live", O'Connor ripped up a photo of Pope John Paul II on camera, condemning abuses in the Catholic Church. This act sparked widespread controversy, leading to her being ostracized by many in the entertainment industry.
1994
Release of Universal Mother
O'Connor released her fourth studio album, "Universal Mother", which was certified gold in the UK. The album continued her trend of blending different musical genres and addressing social issues through her music.
2000
Release of Faith and Courage
Her sixth studio album, "Faith and Courage", was certified gold in Australia. This album marked a continuation of her eclectic musical style and her commitment to social activism.
2005
Release of Throw Down Your Arms
O'Connor released "Throw Down Your Arms", an album that achieved gold status in Ireland. The album featured reggae covers and further showcased her versatility as an artist.
2018
Conversion to Islam
O'Connor converted to Islam and changed her name to Shuhada' Sadaqat. This conversion was part of her ongoing spiritual journey and commitment to her faith.
2021
Release of Memoir: Rememberings
O'Connor released her memoir, "Rememberings", which became a bestseller. The book provided a detailed account of her life, career, and personal struggles.
July 26, 2023
Death
Sinéad O'Connor passed away at the age of 56 in Herne Hill, London, England. Her death marked the end of a life that was filled with music, activism, and a relentless pursuit of truth and justice.
