Irish singer Sinead O'Connor played for three nights starting Nov. 4 at the City Winery in Chicago.
Known for her strong political views and massive voice, O'Connor brought the pipes that made her a star in a career that began in the late '80s.
The show followed the previous night's set list fairly closely highlighting a few tracks from her latest album, How About I Be Me ( And You Be You? ), with "4th & Vine" and "The Wolf Is Getting Married."
She didn't disappoint in the unusual as she donned sunglasses claiming she was shy and handled fans yelling statements from the crowd with awkward replies.
Following the passing of same-sex marriage in Illinois the day of the show, one audience member screamed out the news. O'Connor responded, "That is something to celebrate," then launched into an all-female trio a cappella version of "In This Heart," although "Fire on Babylon" may have been a better choice with the lyrics of "a change has come" in the song.
Of course, she played her massive hit "Nothing Compares 2 U" and longtime listeners reacted heavily to early favorites like "Jackie" and "The Last Day of Our Acquaintance."
It was a well-thought-out evening, as "V.I.P." ended with her stance on celebrities.
This was a show not to be missed and a rarity, with three opportunities to hear the legendary songstress in action.
Check the schedule at www.citywinery.com/chicago/ for more talented artists on the way.
Photos and text by Jerry Nunn