Faithfull was 78. Her spokesperson announced the news to BBC, saying, “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.”
Metallica, who collaborated with the late singer on their 1997 single ‘The Memory Remains,’ quickly shared a post on their Instagram to honor her. The band posted photos of their members with Faithfull and included a message from Lars Ulrich.
The drummer said, “Thank you, Marianne… For the good times, For your kindness, For the great stories, For your fearlessness.” He continued, “And the biggest Thank You and F*ck Yeah for your incredible and unique contribution to our music, and for always being so willing to join us in performing it…and partake in the ensuing shenanigans! Rest in Peace – Lars.”
Kirk Hammett also posted a separate message, writing, “Sad to hear that we have lost such a talented voice and force of nature that was and will always be Marianne Faithful. The memory will ALWAYS remain. Image from the Paul Andresen video.”
“Rest in peace, Marianne,” Courtney Love also said on Instagram. She also included one of her previous interviews with Faithfull, where they talked about how they met, John Keats’ poetry, and overcoming fears about intimacy after sobriety.
Mick Jagger also paid tribute to his ex-girlfriend, saying on X, “I am so saddened to hear of the death of Marianne Faithfull. 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.”
Another Rolling Stones member Keith Richards honored his late friend, writing, “My heartfelt condolences to Marianne’s family! I am so sad and will miss her!! Love, Keith.” Iggy Pop also said in his Instagram story, “She was a gemstone.”
Morrissey added in his message to the singer, “Marianne Faithfull, RIP. This is the evening of the day… My very first purchased disc, ‘Come And Stay With Me.’ Years later, sitting on her bed in Brussels… Hearing her version of ‘Dear God Please Help Me’… She said ‘Lou Reed told me to cover it…’ Her music brought us all closer… The girl to whom everything happened. Morrissey.”
Faithfull was born in London in 1946. She started her music career in 1964 and became famous with her hit ‘As Tears Go By.’ She later had a relationship with Jagger, inspiring several Rolling Stones songs.
Her struggles with addiction affected her life and career, but she made a comeback with ‘Broken English’ in 1979. She also collaborated with many artists. Faithfull continued releasing music, with her last album coming in 2021.
Photo: AFP