On January 15, we suddenly lost Dolores O’Riordan, the lead singer of The Cranberries, at the age of 46. When I heard this news I was instantly transported back to the summer of 1994 when I was 16 years old. Grunge was in its heyday and The Cranberries welcomed in some much needed alt-rock. The Cranberries was the second band I had ever seen in concert and while mesmerized by the music, it was Dolores O’Riordan’s voice that took hold of me. It was fierce yet fragile at the same time. I vividly remember her singing my favorite song, “Ridiculous Thoughts,” and was so moved by the end of it.

After the show I went to the merchandise tent and handed over $20 for a oversized men’s white t-shirt—it was the ’90s after all—with the album art from their No Need To Argue CD on it. I proudly wore that shirt all summer long.

So today we celebrate her life and share with you our favorite songs by The Cranberries. Until we meet again, the Daffodils Lament. Rest in peace, Dolores.

I Can’t Be With You, 131 bpm

Zombie, 82 bpm
Delores wrote this song after an IRA bombing in 1993 killed two children. The father of one of those victims penned a thank you for her powerful lyrics the day after her death.