A Moment in Time

Two and a half years ago, the World lost the incredibly gifted singer Sinéad O’Connor at the early age of 56.

I was a huge fan. Sinéad had a unique voice, was a great songwriter and musician and ALWAYS insisted on performing live when she appeared on television.

She was a very courageous and principled human being, and many feel her loss in so many ways.

I identified with Sinéad, from the many facets of her life and as a person who really loved music. We had the same haircut too!

Sinéad went through many struggles but always displayed immense strength. She insisted on being true to herself, regardless.

The moment that will stay with me forever was in September 2019 when Sinéad sang live on Irish television for the first time in five years. She had been burned out and was very ill. This was her comeback moment.

She was going to sing a very emotional song with the Irish Chamber Orchestra. I was nervous for her as she began to sing. But, oh boy, did she show what a musical force she still was.

The performance was flawless. When she jumped into the air at one point, I knew she was truly Back. You could see the lead violin player rooting for her as if to say ‘Yes! You’ve got this, Sinéad.’ We were all rooting for her.

Sinéad’s gesture at the end of the song showed how confident and happy she was.

It was a great moment and the video of it remains one of my all-time favourite recordings.

I miss her. Sinéad contributed a lot to this world.