Irish pop singer Sinead O'Connor, who rose to international prominence in the 1990s, has passed away at the age of 56, Irish media reported Wednesday. 

"With great sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Sinead," her family announced. 

Her family and friends are distraught and have asked for privacy at this difficult time, according to RTE, Ireland's official broadcaster.

O'Connor, who was born in Dublin County, recorded ten albums in her career, from  "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" to 2014's "I'm not Bossy, I'm the Boss", and was best known for her rendition of Prince's "Nothing Compares 2 U" in 1990.

Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar paid tribute to the star stating that "her talent was unmatched and beyond compare" and extended condolences to her family, friends, and "all who loved her music."

O'Connor, who was distinguishable by her signature shaved head, was considered controversial during her life, regularly speaking out against the Catholic Church.

She has stated she was a victim of abuse. O'Connor in 1992 protested the Catholic Church's controversial allegations of child abuse by tearing up a photograph of Pope John Paul II while performing on the US television show Saturday Night Live.

She was ordained as a priest in 1999 and converted to Islam in 2018, changing her name to Shuhada' Sadaqat.

Irish comedian Dara O'Briain tweeted that the death of the singer was "very sad news," expressing that she hoped "she realized how much love there was for her." 

Micheal Martin, Ireland's deputy premier, described her as  "one of our 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."