Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor passed away at the age of 56 on Wednesday. The news of her demise was announced through a statement issued by the singer’s friends, although the exact cause behind it remains unclear.

In a statement quoted by Irish broadcaster RTE, the singer’s family said, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinead. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”

The contemplative musician never shied away from sharing her struggles with mental health and even candidly revealed her bipolar disorder diagnosis. It seems that Sinéad carried the pain of a mother as she mourned the loss of her son, Shane, who tragically took his own life at the age of 17. On July 17th, she wrote, “Been living as undead night creature since… He was the love of my life, the lamp of my soul. We were one soul in two halves. He was the only person who ever loved me unconditionally. I am lost in the bardo without him.”

Who was Sinéad O’Connor?

Sinéad O’Connor was renowned for her distinctive musical style and provocative works. She gained fame with her debut album “The Lion and the Cobra” and her cover of Prince’s song “Nothing Compares 2 U” became an instant chart-topper across Europe and Australia.

A non-conformist, O’Connor famously shaved her head in response to the pressures of the record executives to appear more glamorous. In 2017, she shared her struggles with mental health in a Facebook video, stating that she kept living for others, but if the choice had been hers alone, she would have gone away.

The world has lost a talented and courageous artist whose music and honesty touched the hearts of many. Sinéad O’Connor’s legacy will live on through her iconic songs and her candidness about the battles she fought. May she rest in peace.