Marianne Faithfull Biography – Marianne Faithfull is a legendary English singer, songwriter, and actress whose career has spanned over six decades. Rising to fame in the 1960s with her hit “As Tears Go By,” she became a cultural icon, known for her music, relationships, struggles, and remarkable comebacks. Despite personal challenges, she has remained a powerful voice in rock and blues, earning respect as one of the greatest female artists in music history.
Early Life and Education
Marianne Evelyn Gabriel Faithfull was born on December 29, 1946, in Hampstead, London, England. She came from an aristocratic background—her father, Major Robert Glynn Faithfull, was a British Army officer and professor, while her mother, Eva von Sacher-Masoch, was an Austro-Hungarian baroness and ballet dancer.
Faithfull attended St Joseph’s Convent School in Reading, where she was introduced to literature, poetry, and music. As a teenager, she was drawn to the folk music scene, performing at local coffee and performede being discovered.
Age
As of 2025, Marianne Faithfull is 78 years old. Despite health struggles, she remains a respected figure in the music industry.
Music Career
The 1960s: Early Success and Stardom
Marianne Faithfull’s career began in 1964 when she was discovered by Andrew Loog Oldham, the Rolling Stones’ manager. She quickly rose to fame with her debut single, “As Tears Go By,” written by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Oldham.
She followed with a series of hits, including:
- “This Little Bird”
- “Summer Nights”
- “Come and Stay with Me”
During the late ‘60s, she became a central figure in London’s music and fashion scene, often linked to the Rolling Stones and the counterculture movement.
The 1970s: Struggles and Decline
Despite early success, Faithfull’s career took a downturn in the 1970s. After her breakup with Mick Jagger, she struggled with drug addiction and homelessness. Her voice, once delicate and light, changed into a deeper, rougher tone due to years of substance abuse.
The 1980s & Beyond: A Legendary Comeback
Faithfull shocked the world with her 1979 album Broken English, which marked a dramatic reinvention. The album’s dark, raw themes and powerful voice earned her critical acclaim.
She continued to evolve artistically, releasing several successful albums:
- Dangerous Acquaintances (1981)
- Strange Weather (1987)
- Before the Poison (2004)
- Negative Capability (2018)
Her later works, often melancholic and poetic, solidified her reputation as an artistic survivor and one of rock’s most unique voices.
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Personal Life
Faithfull’s personal life has been widely discussed, particularly her tumultuous relationship with Mick Jagger in the 1960s. She has been married twice—first to John Dunbar and later to musician Ben Brierly. She has also been open about her struggles with addiction, depression, and health issues.
Despite her hardships, she has remained resilient, often channeling her pain into her music.
Business Ventures and Net Worth
Faithfull has earned wealth through music, performances, and books. She has written two autobiographies:
- “Faithfull: An Autobiography” (1994)
- “Memories, Dreams & Reflections” (2007)
Her estimated net worth is around $15 million, built through her music, writing, and occasional acting roles.
Awards and Recognition
Marianne Faithfull has received numerous accolades, including:
- World Music Lifetime Achievement Award (2009)
- Mojo Icon Award (2018)
- Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (France, 2011)
She is widely regarded as one of the most influential female artists in rock history.
Family and Children
Faithfull has one son, Nicholas Dunbar, from her marriage to John Dunbar. She has largely kept her family life private but has spoken about the challenges of balancing motherhood with her career and struggles.
Tribe and Ethnicity
Marianne Faithfull is of European descent, with English, Irish, and Austrian heritage. Her aristocratic background greatly influenced her artistic sensibilities.
Conclusion
Marianne Faithfull’s journey is one of transformation, survival, and artistry. From the innocence of the 1960s to the raw honesty of her later work, she has consistently reinvented herself while staying true to her music. Despite personal battles with addiction and health, she remains an unforgettable icon in the world of rock and blues.
FAQs
1. What is Marianne Faithfull most famous for?
She is best known for her hit song “As Tears Go By” and her 1979 comeback album, Broken English.
2. What happened between Marianne Faithfull and Mick Jagger?
They had a high-profile relationship in the 1960s but broke up in 1970 due to personal struggles.
3. Did Marianne Faithfull have children?
Yes, she has a son named Nicholas Dunbar from her first marriage to John Dunbar.
4. What health issues has Marianne Faithfull faced?
She has battled heroin addiction, anorexia, breast cancer, and COVID-19, which left her with long-term respiratory problems.
5. What is Marianne Faithfull’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is around $15 million, earned through her music, books, and performances.
6. Is Marianne Faithfull still making music?
Yes, her most recent album, “She Walks in Beauty” (2021), features spoken-word poetry set to music.
7. What genre of music does Marianne Faithfull sing?
She started with folk-pop but later transitioned into rock, blues, and avant-garde music, known for her deep, expressive voice.
