ributes have poured in for “musical icon” Sinead O’Connor following her death aged 56.
The Irish singer’s family confirmed she had passed away in a statement given to Irish media on Wednesday.
They said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”
Tributes soon flooded in for the singer.
Irish band Aslan, who collaborated with O’Connor on Up In Arms in 2001, paid tribute. The band’s lead singer, Christy Dignam, died in June.
A post on the band’s Facebook page read: “Two Legends taken from us so closely together… No words… Rest in Peace Sinead.”
Ireland’s Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he was “really sorry” to hear the news of O’Connor’s death.
“Her music was loved around the world and her talent was unmatched and beyond compare”, he tweeted on Wednesday evening.
“Condolences to her family, her friends and all who loved her music.
“Ar dheis De go Raibh a hAnam.”
Irish comedian Dara O’Briain also paid tribute, writing: “Ah s****, Sinead O’Connor has died.
“That’s just very sad news. Poor thing. I hope she realised how much love there was for her.”
Tim Burgess, the lead singer of rock band The Charlatans, said O’Connor was the “true embodiment of a punk spirit”.
“She did not compromise and that made her life more of a struggle.
“Hoping that she has found peace.”
American rapper and actor Ice T wrote: “Respect to Sinead….. She stood for something… Unlike most people…. Rest Easy.”
Ireland’s deputy premier Micheal Martin said O’Connor was one of Ireland’s “greatest musical icons” and someone “deeply loved by the people of Ireland, and beyond”.
“Our hearts goes out to her children, her family, friends and all who knew and loved her.”
Author Marian Keyes described O’Connor as “amazing, brave, beautiful, unique wonder”.
In a tweet, she wrote: “Oh lord, this is heartbreaking. How she suffered.
“Poor, poor Sinead. Rest in peace, you amazing, brave, beautiful, unique wonder.”
Irish mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor said “the world has lost an artist with the voice of an angel”.
“Ireland has lost an iconic voice and one of our absolute finest, by a long shot. And I have lost a friend.
“Sinead’s music will live on and continue to inspire!
“Rest In Peace, Sinead you are home with your son I am sure.”
Sinead O’Connor – In pictures
The executive producer of Outlander said working with O’Connor was a “true honour”.
Maril Davis, the executive producer of the historical drama, tweeted: “On behalf of the entire cast (and) crew of Outlander we are deeply saddened about the news of Sinead’s passing.
“She was an incredible talent (and) working with her on this season’s main title song was a true honor.
“Our thoughts are with her family during this difficult time.”
Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O’Neill said: “Ireland has lost one of our most powerful and successful singer, songwriter and female artists.
“A big loss not least to her family & friends, but all her many followers across the world.”
In 2014, O’Connor revealed she had joined the Irish political party and called for then-leader Gerry Adams to stand down.
