Sinéad Quinn facts for kids

Sinéad Quinn (born March 24, 1980) is a singer from Northern Ireland. She became well-known after being a contestant on the first season of the UK TV show Fame Academy in 2002. After the show, she signed a record deal and released an album. Her song "I Can't Break Down" became a big hit, reaching number 2 on the UK music charts in February 2003.

Sinéad Quinn's Music Journey

Starting with Fame Academy

Sinéad Quinn joined Fame Academy in a special way. Most contestants were chosen by judges. However, the very last spot was decided by public vote during the first episode. Sinéad sang along with two other people, and she won the public's support. She received 51% of the votes, earning her place in the Academy.

During the competition, Sinéad sang many different songs. These included "I Try" by Macy Gray and "If Tomorrow Never Comes" by Garth Brooks. She also performed "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" and "Don't Speak" by No Doubt.

In the final show, Sinéad competed against David Sneddon and Lemar Obika. She finished in second place. About 2.5 million people voted for her out of 6.5 million votes.

Her Solo Music Career

Soon after Fame Academy, Sinéad signed a big record deal with Mercury Records. Her first song, "I Can’t Break Down," came out on February 10, 2003. It quickly went to number 2 on the UK Singles Chart. The song sold 95,000 copies that year. The music video for "I Can't Break Down" was filmed inside the empty Fame Academy house.

Her next song, "What You Need Is," reached number 19 on the same chart. Sinéad also wrote her own album called Ready to Run. This album reached number 48 on the UK Albums Chart.

Besides her own releases, Sinéad also sang on the Fame Academy Album with other contestants. She also provided guest vocals on the first album by fellow contestant Malachi Cush.

Live Shows and Songwriting

Even before Fame Academy, Sinéad loved writing songs and performing. The TV show helped her improve her songwriting skills. It also gave her singing lessons for the very first time. After the show, the Fame Academy Tour allowed Sinéad to perform for large audiences outside of a TV studio.

Since Fame Academy, Sinéad has continued to perform often. In 2003, she went on a university tour with a band. She performed to a full crowd at Music Live in 2003. In 2005, she supported Children in Need with a performance. She also sang at the Christmas lights switch-on in Coventry.

Sinéad appeared on the TV show The Lyrics Board in Ireland. On New Year's Eve 2005, she sang Sheryl Crow's "Everyday Is a Winding Road" on another Irish TV show. Later in 2005, the Irish President Mary McAleese invited Sinéad to a special event. This event celebrated her contributions to the entertainment industry in Ireland.

In 2007, Sinéad played the role of Beth in the live tour of Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The War of the Worlds. That same year, she performed and was a judge for Girl Guiding UK's talent show, Guiding Star. She also appeared at the Grand Final in Sheffield.

In 2008, Sinéad focused on smaller concerts, mostly in London. She also opened for the singer Lulu at the Chichester Festivities.

Since May 2009, Sinéad has been performing with her band, Sinéad and The Dawnbreakers. They have played at many places and festivals across the country. Her husband, Paul Stewart, is the drummer for the band.

Today, Sinéad performs at private events. She also works at Electric Umbrella in London. This organization uses music to help adults with disabilities.

Sinéad's Personal Life

Sinéad Quinn was born in Irvinestown, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. She is the third child of Gerry and Philomena Quinn. She studied at the University of Hull.

On October 9, 2007, she got engaged to Paul Stewart. They got married on December 6, 2008, in Irvinestown. They now have three children together.

Sinéad Quinn's Music Releases

Albums

Singles