For her first gig in the capital in four years, and her last of the decade, Sinead O'connor made a triumphant return to the stage when she played to a sold-out crowd at Shepherd's Bush Empire. In the ensuing four years, besides her recent appearance on Good Morning Britain, Sinead has continued to battle well-documented mental health issues, lost custody of one of her children, courted more controversy, become a grandmother and converted to Islam. One constant, however, has remained; her quite brilliant voice.
Sinead may have changed her name to Shuhada Sadaqat as part of her religious conversion but as a performer she is still using the name Sinead O'Connor. That is what was spelt out across the facade of the iconic Shepherd's Bush Empire for Sinead's one and only London date before she takes her tour on into Europe and then America in 2020. Playing without a support act, and to a very enthusiastic, adoring and captivated crowd, Sinead couldn't have put on a better show. In a full-length dress and hijab, a barefooted Sinead looked relaxed and content throughout. There was no religious or political comment at all during the entire evening; the closest Sinead came was to say, "I think you'll like this one" ahead of performing 'Black Boys On Mopeds'. The opening 'Margaret Thatcher on TV' lyric still clearly resonating with her audience.
O'Connor opened up with her well-worked cover of John Grant's 'Queen Of Denmark'. From the first note she sang you almost knew that it was going to be a stand-out performance. Sinead was calm, centred and serene as she sang through a set that showcased a 'best of' in what was to be quite a special night. There was power and passion aplenty as Sinead, and her very accomplished band, delivered up rousing takes on '4th And Vine', 'Harbour' and 'Take Me To Church' but it was during the quieter songs that Sinead really shone and connected with her audience.
Continue reading: Sinead O'Connor - O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire, London 16.12.2019 Live Review