Marianne Faithfull, the iconic British singer whose work with the Rolling Stones cemented her status as a pop legend, has passed away at the age of 78. Her death was confirmed by her music promotion company, Republic Media, in a statement released on Thursday from London.
The statement announced, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of the singer, songwriter, and actress Marianne Faithfull. Marianne passed away peacefully in London today, in the company of her loving family. She will be dearly missed.”
Born in Hampstead, London, in December 1946, Faithfull emerged as a prominent folk singer after her chance encounter with the Rolling Stones’ manager, which led to her recording the hit “As Tears Go By,” co-written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, when she was just 17 years old. The song achieved considerable success on both the U.K. and American charts, paving the way for her subsequent hit singles and debut albums.
Mick Jagger expressed his sorrow over Faithfull’s death, stating on social media, “I am so saddened to hear of the death of Marianne. She was so much part of my life for so long. She was a wonderful friend, a beautiful singer, and a great actress. She will always be remembered.”
Faithfull’s life was marked by both triumphs and tribulations. Despite her early success, she faced challenges after marrying a London art dealer at 18, later walking away from her marriage to engage in a tumultuous relationship with Jagger. Their romance during the “Swinging London” era was iconic but also led to significant challenges, including a well-publicized drug bust in 1967 that damaged her public image.
Following her breakup with Jagger, Faithfull struggled with addiction and homelessness throughout her twenties. However, she made a stunning comeback in 1979 with her acclaimed album “Broken English,” showcasing her resilience amidst personal battles with addiction, which she ultimately overcame in the mid-1980s.
Reflecting on her journey, Faithfull once remarked, “I really do appreciate my pretty extraordinary life. I think I’ve been unconscious for a very long time. And only now have I begun to get it.”
Marianne Faithfull’s legacy endures through her influential music and her remarkable story of resilience and creativity, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and beyond. Her life serves as a poignant reminder of the power of reinvention and strength in the face of adversity.