Marianne Faithfull, the iconic British singer-songwriter and actress, passed away last month at the age of 78. Her relationship with Mick Jagger, the legendary frontman of The Rolling Stones, was a significant chapter in both their lives, intertwining personal and professional realms
Marianne Faithfull and Mick Jagger's relationship began in 1966, during the height of the Swinging Sixties—a period marked by cultural revolution and artistic experimentation. Their partnership lasted until 1970, and during these years, they became one of the most talked-about couples in the music industry. Faithfull's ethereal beauty and haunting voice complemented Jagger's charismatic stage presence, making them emblematic figures of the era.
Musical Collaborations and Inspirations
Their relationship was not just personal but also deeply professional. Faithfull's first hit, "As Tears Go By," was penned by Jagger and Keith Richards, marking the beginning of her musical journey. Throughout their time together, Faithfull was a muse for several Rolling Stones songs. Notably, tracks like "You Can't Always Get What You Want" and "Wild Horses" are believed to have been inspired by their tumultuous relationship. Faithfull's own songwriting prowess shone through in "Sister Morphine," a song she co-wrote with Jagger and Richards. The track, which delved into themes of addiction and despair, was initially released by Faithfull in 1969. However, when The Rolling Stones included it in their 1971 album "Sticky Fingers," Faithfull's contribution was not immediately acknowledged. It wasn't until 1994, after a prolonged legal battle, that she secured her rightful co-writing credit.
The Redlands Incident and Its Aftermath
One of the most infamous episodes during their relationship was the 1967 police raid on Redlands, Keith Richards' Sussex estate. Both Jagger and Faithfull were present during the raid, which led to drug possession charges against Jagger. The media sensationalized the event, particularly focusing on Faithfull, who was found clad only in a fur rug. This incident not only highlighted the intrusive nature of the press but also underscored the societal challenges faced by the counterculture movement of the 1960s. The severity of Jagger's sentencing—a three-month imprisonment for a minor drug offense—sparked public outcry. A notable editorial titled "Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?" published by The Times, criticized the harsh punishment, leading to Jagger's release on appeal.
Personal Struggles and the Decline of Their Relationship
The late 1960s were tumultuous for Faithfull. She faced numerous personal challenges, including a well-publicized miscarriage in 1968 and a deepening dependence on drugs. Her descent into addiction strained her relationship with Jagger, leading to their eventual split in 1970. Post-breakup, Faithfull's life spiraled further as she grappled with heroin addiction, anorexia, and periods of homelessness. Despite these hardships, she made a remarkable comeback with her 1979 album "Broken English," which showcased her resilience and evolution as an artist