The General: Remembering Sinead O'Connor

As a music publicist, I created narratives around artists and their music, helping them to connect with their audiences on a deeper level. As a eulogy writer, my work pays tribute the lives of people who have died. Seemingly disparate careers, but they share a common thread - the power of words to connect and inspire.

My career in music gave me some incredible experiences and taught me so much about the world. I represented a wide range of talented musicians, but one in particular will always stand out. For a few months in 2015 I worked with Sinead O'Connor.

We never met but spoke most evenings, usually over email. She called herself 'The General'. It was a fitting title for a woman whose cultural significance transcended her extraordinary musical talent. Sinead’s fearlessness and unapologetic authenticity sparked important conversations around religion, mental health and social justice. She'd become a powerful advocate for change and a symbol of empowerment, inspiring others to challenge conventions and stand up for their beliefs.

In a world where women's appearances are scrutinised and judged, Sinead resolutely rejected conventional beauty standards and refused to conform to the expectations placed on women. Her iconic shaven head represented self-acceptance and liberation, challenging the notion that femininity should be defined by appearance. Sinead proved true beauty lies in individuality. She was a trailblazer.

Our early emails centred around work but as the weeks passed Sinead and I talked more about our lives and our families. I could never claim we were anything more than acquaintances, but over the course of working together I cherished the connection we'd made. After I sent my final report to her, she replied with this:

I was thrilled. Receiving that email was certainly one the highlights of my career in music, but as the next chapter of my life unfolded - proving to be more challenging than anything I’d faced before - Sinead’s words lifted me up. When I felt as though I was struggling through obstacles and loss, I thought about what she'd written, "As we say in Ireland, you're some woman for one woman".

I'd never heard that expression before. It was so simple, yet so profound. I thought about the remarkable women who had shaped my lineage, generations of wives and mothers who overcame extraordinary challenges against the backdrop of seemingly ordinary lives. I held onto their stories of capability and resilience and found the courage to move forward, focusing on potential instead of fear. Sinead's email reminded me of the positive impact women have on the world when we inspire and empower each other to embrace our individuality, speak up and challenge the limitations imposed on us by society.

Rest in peace Sinead. You broke barriers so future generations could make their voices heard without compromise. We owe you so much.