Marianne Faithfull, the iconic singer and actress, has left us at the age of 78.
Her spokesperson confirmed that she passed away peacefully in London, surrounded by her loving family.
A Life of Music and Stardom
Born in Hampstead in 1946, Faithfull was known for her hit songs like “As Tears Go By,” which reached the UK top 10 in 1964.
She also starred in films like “The Girl On A Motorcycle” in 1968. Her relationship with Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger in the 1960s inspired songs like “Wild Horses” and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.”
Overcoming Adversity
Faithfull’s life wasn’t without its challenges. She struggled with heroin addiction in the 1970s but made a remarkable comeback with her classic album “Broken English.”
She also battled health problems, including bulimia, breast cancer, and emphysema.
In 2020, she contracted Covid-19 and was hospitalized for 22 days, but she defied the odds and released her 21st album, “She Walks in Beauty,” a year later.
A Career Spanning Decades
Faithfull’s music career spanned over five decades. She was a part of the “British Invasion” of the US pop charts with her debut album and “North Country Maid” in 1966.
She collaborated with renowned songwriters like PJ Harvey, Nick Cave, David Bowie, and Metallica. Her acting career included roles in films, stage productions, and even a sitcom.
Tributes Pour In
Mick Jagger paid tribute to Faithfull, describing her as “a wonderful friend, a beautiful singer, and a great actress.”
Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood also expressed their sadness and admiration for her.
Faithfull’s long-time friend, BBC Radio 2 presenter Bob Harris, called her an “encapsulation of the sixties” and praised her as an artist and creator.
A Legacy of Music and Art
Faithfull’s story is a testament to her strength and talent. She received the World Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009 and was made a commandeur of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government.
She is survived by her son, Nicholas Dunbar. As we remember Marianne Faithfull, we celebrate her remarkable life, her music, and her legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.