Complete List Of Sinéad O’Connor Albums And Songs

Feature Photo: Matteo Chinellato / Shutterstock.com

Sinéad O’Connor, an influential Irish singer-songwriter, was born on December 8, 1966, in Dublin, Ireland, and sadly passed away on July 26, 2023. She began her music career in the mid-1980s and quickly gained recognition with her debut album, The Lion and the Cobra, released in 1987. O’Connor was known for her powerful voice and intense emotive delivery, blending elements of pop, rock, and folk while frequently addressing social, political, and religious themes.

Her global fame was cemented with the 1990 release of “Nothing Compares 2 U,” a cover of a Prince song that topped charts worldwide, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany. This song was part of her critically acclaimed album, I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, which also achieved significant commercial success and went platinum in several regions. Throughout her career, O’Connor released ten studio albums, one live album, five compilation albums, the Gospel Oak EP, and the later archival live release Live in Rotterdam ’90.

O’Connor’s music and actions often sparked controversy, particularly her outspoken views on the Catholic Church and other social issues. Despite this, she received numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album. O’Connor’s artistic legacy is marked by her willingness to express her beliefs and challenge societal norms, making her a significant figure in the music industry until her death in 2023.

STUDIO ALBUMS

The Lion and the Cobra (1987)

Released: 1987

Sinéad O’Connor’s debut studio album, The Lion and the Cobra, was released in 1987 and made a strong impact with its intense emotional energy and distinctive blend of rock, pop, and Celtic influences. The album showcases O’Connor’s powerful vocals and her unique approach to songwriting and production.

Sinéad O’Connor and Kevin Moloney produced the album, which was recorded at Oasis Studios in London between April and August 1987. It features musicians such as Marco Pirroni on guitars and John Reynolds on drums. The Lion and the Cobra peaked at number 36 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a successful beginning to O’Connor’s career.

CD Track Listings:

“Jackie” – 2:28
“Mandinka” – 3:46
“Jerusalem” – 4:17
“Just Like U Said It Would B” – 4:28
“Never Get Old” – 4:37
“Troy” – 6:34
“I Want Your (Hands on Me)” – 4:37
“Drink Before the War” – 5:24
“Just Call Me Joe” – 5:51

I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got (1990)

Released: 1990

Sinéad O’Connor’s second studio album, I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, is widely regarded as her most successful release, both critically and commercially. This album features a mix of powerful ballads and emotive tracks, showcasing O’Connor’s dynamic vocal range. The album’s most famous single, “Nothing Compares 2 U,” propelled her to international stardom. It was produced by Sinéad O’Connor and Nellee Hooper and recorded at several locations including SARM West Studios in London. The album reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart and won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album. It features contributions from Marco Pirroni on guitar and John Reynolds on drums.

CD Track Listings:

“Feel So Different” – 6:47
“I Am Stretched on Your Grave” – 5:33
“Three Babies” – 4:47
“The Emperor’s New Clothes” – 5:16
“Black Boys on Mopeds” – 3:53
“Nothing Compares 2 U” – 5:10
“Jump in the River” – 4:11
“You Cause as Much Sorrow” – 5:05
“The Last Day of Our Acquaintance” – 4:40
“I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got” – 5:47

Am I Not Your Girl? (1992)

Released: 1992

Am I Not Your Girl? is Sinéad O’Connor’s third studio album, where she explores classic standards and jazz hits, showcasing her versatility as a vocalist. This album features lush orchestral arrangements that complement O’Connor’s expressive singing style. It was produced by Phil Ramone and recorded at Capitol Studios in Hollywood. The album includes classic songs from composers like George Gershwin and Cole Porter. O’Connor’s interpretation of these timeless tracks brings a new dimension to her discography.

CD Track Listings:

“Why Don’t You Do Right?” – 2:31
“Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered” – 6:15
“Secret Love” – 2:56
“Black Coffee” – 3:18
“Success Has Made a Failure of Our Home” – 4:29
“Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” – 5:38
“I Want to Be Loved by You” – 2:47
“Gloomy Sunday” – 3:55
“Love Letters” – 3:09
“How Insensitive” – 3:28
“I’m Not a Berliner” – 1:29
“Scarlet Ribbons” – 4:11

Universal Mother (1994)

Released: 1994

Universal Mother, Sinéad O’Connor’s fourth studio album, delves into personal and political themes, showcasing her emotional depth and vocal prowess. This album includes the poignant track “Fire on Babylon,” which reflects her intense personal struggles and advocacy for social issues. It was produced by Sinéad O’Connor and John Reynolds, and recorded at Windmill Lane Studios in Dublin. The album, featuring a mix of rock, folk, and avant-garde elements, highlights her continued evolution as an artist.

CD Track Listings:

“Germaine” – 0:38
“Fire on Babylon” – 5:10
“John I Love You” – 5:31
“My Darling Child” – 3:09
“Am I Human?” – 0:22
“Red Football” – 2:48
“All Apologies” – 2:37
“A Perfect Indian” – 4:21
“Scorn Not His Simplicity” – 4:26
“All Babies” – 4:28
“In This Heart” – 3:11
“Tiny Grief Song” – 1:55
“Famine” – 4:56
“Thank You for Hearing Me” – 6:24

Faith and Courage (2000)

Released: 2000

Faith and Courage is the fifth studio album by Sinéad O’Connor, marking her return to music after a brief hiatus. The album explores themes of spirituality and personal growth, featuring a blend of pop, rock, and world music influences. Produced by several high-profile producers, including Wyclef Jean and David A. Stewart, this album was recorded in several studios across London and Dublin. It includes collaborations with notable artists like Dave Stewart on guitar.

CD Track Listings:

“The Healing Room” – 5:34
“No Man’s Woman” – 3:00
“Jealous” – 4:18
“Dancing Lessons” – 4:15
“Daddy I’m Fine” – 2:58
“Til I Whisper U Something” – 6:08
“Hold Back the Night” – 4:11
“What Doesn’t Belong to Me” – 5:38
“The State I’m In” – 4:10
“The Lamb’s Book of Life” – 4:56
“If U Ever” – 4:24
“Emma’s Song” – 3:23
“Kyrie Eleison” – 2:45

Sean-Nós Nua (2002)

Released: 2002

Sean-Nós Nua is a unique entry in Sinéad O’Connor’s discography, focusing on traditional Irish songs reinterpreted through her distinctive vocal style. This album was produced by Alan Branch, Sinéad O’Connor, and Donal Lunny, emphasizing traditional Irish instrumentation and arrangements. Recorded at Westland Studios and Totally Wired in Dublin, this album reflects her deep connection to her Irish roots.

CD Track Listings:

“Peggy Gordon” – 5:37
“Her Mantle So Green” – 5:38
“Lord Franklin” – 5:00
“The Singing Bird” – 4:30
“Óró, Sé Do Bheatha ‘Bhaile” – 3:21
“Molly Malone” – 3:33
“Paddy’s Lament” – 5:28
“The Moorlough Shore” – 5:27
“The Parting Glass” – 4:33
“Báidín Fheilimí” – 3:22
“My Lagan Love” – 4:45
“Lord Baker” – 11:40
“I’ll Tell Me Ma” – 2:24

Throw Down Your Arms (2005)

Released: 2005

Throw Down Your Arms is Sinéad O’Connor’s reggae-influenced album, featuring covers of classic roots reggae songs. This project reflects her deep appreciation for Rastafarian culture and reggae music. The album was produced by Sly & Robbie and recorded at the legendary Tuff Gong Studios in Kingston, Jamaica. O’Connor’s interpretations bring a fresh perspective to these reggae classics.

CD Track Listings:

“Jah Nuh Dead” – 3:20
“Marcus Garvey” – 3:28
“Door Peep” – 3:22
“He Prayed” – 3:27
“Y Mas Gan” – 3:49
“Curly Locks” – 4:22
“Vampire” – 4:02
“Prophet Has Arise” – 4:26
“Downpressor Man” – 5:08
“Throw Down Your Arms” – 4:13
“Untold Stories” – 3:40
“War” – 4:04

Theology (2007)

Released: 2007

Theology is a double album by Sinéad O’Connor that explores spiritual and biblical themes. This deeply personal project draws on her spiritual journey and reflections on global conflict. The album consists of two discs: the Dublin Sessions present the songs in a stripped-down acoustic setting, while the London Sessions feature fuller band arrangements. The Dublin Sessions were produced by Steve Cooney and co-produced by Sinéad O’Connor and Graham Bolger, while the London Sessions were produced by Ron Tom. Theology offers meditative interpretations of biblical texts and original compositions.

CD Track Listings:

Disc 1: Dublin Sessions

“Something Beautiful” – 5:29
“We People Who Are Darker Than Blue” – 3:56
“Out of the Depths” – 5:06
“Dark I Am Yet Lovely” – 4:11
“If You Had a Vineyard” – 6:18
“Watcher of Men” – 2:34
“33” – 2:33
“The Glory of Jah” – 3:32
“Whomsoever Dwells” – 2:53
“Rivers of Babylon” – 3:39
“Hosanna Filio David” – 0:44

Disc 2: London Sessions

“Something Beautiful” – 5:15
“We People Who Are Darker Than Blue” – 4:25
“Out of the Depths” – 5:03
“33” – 2:43
“Dark I Am Yet Lovely” – 3:31
“I Don’t Know How to Love Him” – 4:13
“If You Had a Vineyard” – 6:34
“The Glory of Jah” – 4:56
“Watcher of Men” – 3:18
“Whomsoever Dwells” – 5:34
“Rivers of Babylon” – 4:28

How About I Be Me (and You Be You)? (2012)

Released: 2012

How About I Be Me (and You Be You)? showcases Sinéad O’Connor’s return to more conventional pop and rock structures, while still infused with her characteristic emotional intensity and vocal power. The album addresses themes of love, loss, and redemption. John Reynolds produced it, and it was recorded at several studios, including Westland Studios in Dublin.

CD Track Listings:

“4th and Vine” – 3:58
“Reason with Me” – 4:01
“Old Lady” – 3:42
“Take Off Your Shoes” – 5:26
“Back Where You Belong” – 4:15
“The Wolf is Getting Married” – 4:22
“Queen of Denmark” – 4:36
“Very Far from Home” – 3:53
“I Had a Baby” – 4:10
“V.I.P.” – 6:34

I’m Not Bossy, I’m the Boss (2014)

Sinead O Connor I m not bossy, I m the Boss Vinyl Record LP

Released: 2014

I’m Not Bossy, I’m the Boss features Sinéad O’Connor delving into themes of femininity, power, and relationships. The album blends rock, pop, and folk elements, with O’Connor’s lyrical depth and strong vocals taking center stage. Produced by John Reynolds and recorded in Dublin, the album demonstrates her continued relevance and innovation in music.

CD Track Listings:

“How About I Be Me” – 3:25
“Dense Water Deeper Down” – 3:32
“Kisses Like Mine” – 2:28
“Your Green Jacket” – 3:23
“The Vishnu Room” – 2:47
“The Voice of My Doctor” – 3:36
“Harbour” – 4:40
“James Brown” (featuring Seun Kuti) – 3:05
“8 Good Reasons” – 3:26
“Take Me to Church” – 3:01
“Where Have You Been?” – 3:02
“Streetcars” – 4:28

EP AND ARCHIVAL LIVE RELEASES

Gospel Oak (1997)

Released: 1997

Gospel Oak is a six-track EP released in 1997, featuring a largely acoustic collection of songs produced by Sinéad O’Connor, John Reynolds, and Dónal Lunny.

CD Track Listings:

“This Is to Mother You” – 3:13
“I Am Enough for Myself” – 4:05
“Petit Poulet” – 3:44
“4 My Love” – 4:05
“This Is a Rebel Song” – 3:02
“He Moved Through the Fair” – 4:23

Live in Rotterdam ’90 (2021)

Released: 2021

Live in Rotterdam ’90 is a four-track archival live release issued by Chrysalis for Record Store Day in 2021, drawing from O’Connor’s October 30, 1990 performance in Rotterdam.

Track Listings:

“Nothing Compares 2 U” (Live) – 6:05
“The Last Days of Our Acquaintance” (Live) – 6:33
“Irish Ways and Irish Laws” (Live) – 4:11
“Troy” (Live) – 7:07

COMPILATION ALBUMS

So Far… The Best of Sinéad O’Connor (1997)

Released: 1997

So Far… The Best of Sinéad O’Connor is a compilation album released in 1997 that gathers major singles, album tracks, and collaborations from the first decade of O’Connor’s recording career.

CD Track Listings:

“Nothing Compares 2 U” – 5:10
“Mandinka” – 3:48
“The Emperor’s New Clothes” – 5:17
“The Last Day of Our Acquaintance” – 4:40
“Fire on Babylon” – 5:10
“Troy” – 6:33
“I Am Stretched on Your Grave” – 5:35
“Success Has Made a Failure of Our Home” – 4:29
“John I Love You” – 5:49
“Empire” – 5:50
“I Want Your (Hands on Me)” – 4:39
“Heroine” – 4:26
“Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” – 5:37
“You Made Me the Thief of Your Heart” – 6:20
“Just Like U Said It Would B” – 4:28

Sinéad O’Connor (Best Of) (2000)

Released: 2000

Sinéad O’Connor (Best Of) is a compilation released by Disky in 2000, drawing material from O’Connor’s first four studio albums and the Gospel Oak EP.

CD Track Listings:

“I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got” – 5:47
“Jackie” – 2:30
“Three Babies” – 4:45
“Fire on Babylon” – 5:08
“Black Coffee” – 3:21
“Thank You for Hearing Me” – 4:36
“Scarlet Ribbons” – 4:13
“In This Heart” – 3:10
“Never Get Old” – 4:36
“I Want to Be Loved by You” – 2:45
“Black Boys on Mopeds” – 3:53
“Drink Before the War” – 5:23
“Famine” – 4:55
“This Is a Rebel Song” – 3:02
“The Last Day of Our Acquaintance” – 4:40

She Who Dwells in the Secret Place of the Most High Shall Abide Under the Shadow of the Almighty (2003)

Released: 2003

She Who Dwells in the Secret Place of the Most High Shall Abide Under the Shadow of the Almighty is a two-disc collection released in 2003. The first disc gathers rare, unreleased, demo, and collaborative recordings, while the second disc presents a live performance recorded in Dublin in 2002.

CD Track Listings:

Disc 1

“Regina Caeli” – 1:03
“O Filii et Filiae” – 3:15
“My Love I Bring” – 3:56
“Do Right Woman” – 3:55
“Love Hurts” – 4:03
“Ain’t It a Shame” – 4:32
“Chiquitita” – 3:51
“Brigidine Diana” – 4:14
“It’s All Good” – 5:09
“Love Is Ours” (Demo) – 4:45
“A Hundred Thousand Angels” – 3:20
“You Put Your Arms Around Me” (Demo) – 5:00
“Emma’s Song” (Adrian Sherwood Remix) – 4:23
“No Matter How Hard I Try” (Demo) – 4:24
“Dense Water, Deeper Down” – 3:34
“This Is a Rebel Song” (Dub Remix) – 3:50
“1000 Mirrors” – 4:54
“Big Bunch of Junkie Lies” – 4:04
“Song of Jerusalem” – 5:52

Disc 2

“Molly Malone” – 3:56
“Óró, Sé Do Bheatha ‘Bhaile” – 3:07
“The Singing Bird” – 4:25
“My Lagan Love” – 5:12
“I Am Stretched on Your Grave” – 4:43
“Nothing Compares 2 U” – 5:40
“John I Love You” – 5:30
“The Moorlough Shore” – 5:41
“You Made Me the Thief of Your Heart” – 4:38
“Paddy’s Lament” – 5:36
“Thank You for Hearing Me” – 5:12
“Fire on Babylon” – 7:32
“The Last Day of Our Acquaintance” – 5:58

Collaborations (2005)

Released: 2005

Collaborations is a compilation released in 2005 that brings together recordings featuring O’Connor with artists including Massive Attack, Asian Dub Foundation, Peter Gabriel, U2, Moby, and The The.