Nothing Compares 2 U

My snark was directed more at NTI, who seemed upset at chord substitution.

I don't think he was upset. He's just saying that it doesn't sound good and he's really right. I could honestly hear the Family version working with different instrumentation or a different mix or something though.

Family version would work better with a stronger and more distinctive vocalist. Clare Fischer's string arrangement is still sublime. Altho Sinead's version is still definitive, I think the recorded Family version would likely work with an impassioned vocal. There must be a demo/guide vocal version in the vault.

Impassioned Prince vocal, that is.

impassioned, sure, but its not a song that benefits from a big fire and desire-type soul vocal IMO

Here's an interesting article about the recording of Sinead's version.

My snark was directed more at NTI, who seemed upset at chord substitution.

Wrong.

Not really interested in getting into a debate over jazz theory here but suffice it to say that since the tune in the chorus on the Family version is also completely different than Sinead's there must be "melody subs" as well.

Ok, I can't help myself. Those aren't substitutions. They're different chords. The chorus of the Family version resolves on the I chord. The Sinead version resolves on the V.

And yes, it sounds terrible in the former.

Sound on Sound is a treasure.

Agreed

ex-post: I never debate with dude who have broken ears, but you do have my sympathy.

good to know

Dixie Chicks cover is pretty faithful to the Sinead version.

Tons of other covers of this song floating around out there.

The one by Taylor Dane is not bad and also features an amusing if a wee bit hard to follow story about getting invited to and performing at a Prince aftershow.

This may leave you cold or you might find it a wee bit moving:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gt1YhpQb8go