Rock musician and the Rolling Stones' muse passes away at 78
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The music industry mourns the loss of one of the trailblazing figures in the rock music scene.
Marianne Faithfull has passed away at the age of 78.
A muse to the Rolling Stones and a celebrated artist in her own right, Faithfull's journey through the music industry was as tumultuous as it was inspiring.
News of her passing highlighted the peaceful nature of her departure, as she was surrounded by her loving family in London.
She is survived by her partner, French producer François Ravard, and her son, Nicholas Dunbar.
Born on 29 December 1946 in Hampstead, London, Marianne Faithfull burst onto the music scene in the sixties with her sweet-voiced folk-pop tunes.
'As Tears Go By', her debut single written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, jump-started her career as a star.
However, Faithfull's life was not without its struggles.
A harrowing period of heroin addiction led to her living on the streets of London.
Yet, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Faithfull made a remarkable comeback with her 1979 album Broken English.
Broken English, which she considered her masterpiece, featured hits like 'The Ballad of Lucy Jordan' and 'Why'd Ya Do It'—showcasing a voice that bore the scars of her experiences.
Faithfull's resilience and talent saw her remain a prolific force in the music industry for decades.
She collaborated with an array of artists throughout her career, including PJ Harvey, Beck, Nick Cave, and Billy Corgan.
She also released several acclaimed albums, including Kissin Time (2002) and Before the Poison (2005).
Her most recent studio album, She Walks In Beauty (2021), was proof of her artistic vitality.
In recent years, Marianne Faithfull faced a series of health challenges.
She dealt with a broken hip in 2014 and a severe bout of pneumonia after testing in 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The latter left her fearing for her singing career, as the illness took a toll on her lungs.
Marianne Faithfull's life was as eventful as her career, as she was notably in a relationship with Mick Jagger from 1966 to 1970.
She also had three marriages: to artist John Dunbar in 1965, musician Ben Brierly from 1979 to 1986, and actor Giorgio Della Terza from 1988 to 1991.
Mick Jagger paid tributes to the late singer, who he honoured as 'a wonderful friend, a beautiful singer and a great actress'.
'She was so much part of my life for so long. She will always be remembered,' he stated in a post.
Listen to Marianne Faithfull's 'The Ballad of Lucy Jordan' here:
Source: Walter Mogentale/YouTube
Marianne Faithfull's legacy was one of transformation, resilience, and unyielding creativity.
Her story was a testament to the enduring spirit of an artist who refused to be defined by her darkest moments.
To those who have lived through Marianne Faithfull's career, we invite you to share your memories and tributes to this legendary figure.
Let us come together to celebrate the life and artistry of Marianne Faithfull.
As we reflect on Marianne Faithfull's remarkable journey, we remember the indelible mark she has left on the world.
May she rest in peace.
Marianne Faithfull has passed away at the age of 78.
A muse to the Rolling Stones and a celebrated artist in her own right, Faithfull's journey through the music industry was as tumultuous as it was inspiring.
News of her passing highlighted the peaceful nature of her departure, as she was surrounded by her loving family in London.
She is survived by her partner, French producer François Ravard, and her son, Nicholas Dunbar.
Born on 29 December 1946 in Hampstead, London, Marianne Faithfull burst onto the music scene in the sixties with her sweet-voiced folk-pop tunes.
Marianne Faithfull in the 1970s. Image Credit: Facebook/Marianne Faithfull
'As Tears Go By', her debut single written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, jump-started her career as a star.
However, Faithfull's life was not without its struggles.
A harrowing period of heroin addiction led to her living on the streets of London.
Yet, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Faithfull made a remarkable comeback with her 1979 album Broken English.
Broken English, which she considered her masterpiece, featured hits like 'The Ballad of Lucy Jordan' and 'Why'd Ya Do It'—showcasing a voice that bore the scars of her experiences.
Faithfull's resilience and talent saw her remain a prolific force in the music industry for decades.
She collaborated with an array of artists throughout her career, including PJ Harvey, Beck, Nick Cave, and Billy Corgan.
She also released several acclaimed albums, including Kissin Time (2002) and Before the Poison (2005).
Her most recent studio album, She Walks In Beauty (2021), was proof of her artistic vitality.
In recent years, Marianne Faithfull faced a series of health challenges.
She dealt with a broken hip in 2014 and a severe bout of pneumonia after testing in 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The latter left her fearing for her singing career, as the illness took a toll on her lungs.
Marianne Faithfull's life was as eventful as her career, as she was notably in a relationship with Mick Jagger from 1966 to 1970.
She also had three marriages: to artist John Dunbar in 1965, musician Ben Brierly from 1979 to 1986, and actor Giorgio Della Terza from 1988 to 1991.
Mick Jagger paid tributes to the late singer, who he honoured as 'a wonderful friend, a beautiful singer and a great actress'.
'She was so much part of my life for so long. She will always be remembered,' he stated in a post.
Listen to Marianne Faithfull's 'The Ballad of Lucy Jordan' here:
Source: Walter Mogentale/YouTube
Marianne Faithfull's legacy was one of transformation, resilience, and unyielding creativity.
Her story was a testament to the enduring spirit of an artist who refused to be defined by her darkest moments.
To those who have lived through Marianne Faithfull's career, we invite you to share your memories and tributes to this legendary figure.
Let us come together to celebrate the life and artistry of Marianne Faithfull.
May she rest in peace.
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