A representative has confirmed the passing of Marianne Faithfull, though the cause of death has not yet been disclosed. She was 78 years-old.
Born on December 29, 1946, in Hampstead, London, Faithfull rose to fame in the 1960s with her breakthrough hit As Tears Go By, a song written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones. Her ethereal voice and striking presence made her one of the era’s defining artists, placing her at the forefront of the British Invasion.
Faithfull’s career spanned decades, evolving from the soft, folk-infused sound of her early years to the raw, haunting tones of her later music. Her 1979 album Broken English marked a significant comeback, blending rock and new wave influences with deeply personal lyrics. Over the years, she continued to release critically acclaimed albums and collaborated with artists such as PJ Harvey and Nick Cave.
Beyond music, Faithfull also left her mark on the film industry, appearing in notable films like The Girl on a Motorcycle (1968) and Hamlet (1969). Her personal life, often as tumultuous as her career, included a high-profile relationship with Mick Jagger and well-documented struggles with addiction and health issues.
Despite facing numerous challenges, she remained a fearless and innovative artist until the end. Her final works, including the 2021 album She Walks in Beauty, showcased her love for poetry and experimental soundscapes.
Marianne Faithfull’s legacy is one of resilience, reinvention, and artistic brilliance.
She will be remembered not only for her music and film contributions but also for her ability to continually redefine herself, inspiring generations of musicians and performers.
