(Credit: A. Vente)
Fri 31 January 2025 18:30, UK
The music and film industry has been left in mourning following the passing of ‘60s icon Marianne Faithfull. Born in Hampstead in the 1940s, Faithfull’s career spanned decades, making her a significant figure in both music and cinema. Her unique voice and artistic vision not only defined an era but also inspired countless artists and fans around the world.
On January 30th, a statement was released announcing her death: “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.” This news sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow artists alike.
Faithfull’s influence on pop culture was profound, as reflected in the heartfelt remembrances shared by those who knew her. Tim Burgess, frontman of The Charlatans, recalled his first encounter with her music: “Farewell Marianne Faithfull. I first heard Broken English on a school trip in 1980 and it blew my mind. She was such a free spirit and a true talent.” Burgess reminisced about their meeting in Amsterdam in 1994, where they shared stories and listened to her iconic track, “Why D’Ya Do It.”
Another poignant tribute came from Mick Jagger, the legendary vocalist of The Rolling Stones, who had a romantic relationship with Faithfull during the ‘60s. “I am so saddened to hear of the death of Marianne Faithfull,” he expressed. “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.” Their relationship, though it ended, was marked by a deep connection that influenced both their lives and careers.
During her time with Jagger, Faithfull also formed a close friendship with Anita Pallenberg, an actress and model who was involved with Rolling Stones drummer Brian Jones. Their bond lasted until Pallenberg’s passing on June 13th, 2017. In the wake of this loss, Faithfull channeled her grief into her music, culminating in the creation of the song “Born To Live” for her 2018 album, Negative Capability. This track serves as both a tribute to Pallenberg and a reflection on the universal experience of loss.
The lyrics of “Born To Live” are hauntingly beautiful, capturing the essence of love and mourning: “Born to live and die / Forever loving you / Don’t make me cry, know what I must do / Pray for a good death, one for me, one for you.” Faithfull described the emotional struggle she faced while writing the song, as memories of Pallenberg flooded back. “All these memories came back hard. When I’d done that, Anita appeared, right there in front of me,” she shared. “That’s the thing about these songs. They’re not just about these people; they’re about everybody who’s been going through this stuff. It’s so hard to lose your loved ones.”
Marianne Faithfull’s legacy is one of resilience and creativity. Her ability to transform personal pain into art resonated with many, making her a beloved figure in the hearts of fans and fellow artists alike. As the world reflects on her contributions to music and film, it is clear that her spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.
Related Topics
