A Tribute album to Marianne Faithfull, brings together 25 renowned artists to pay homage to the iconic singer. Scheduled for release on December 8th, the album will feature two discs with covers of 19 of Faithfull’s songs. The lineup includes Iggy Pop, Shirley Manson, Cat Power, Peaches, and many more.
What makes this album even more special is that all profits will go directly towards supporting Faithfull in her recovery from long-Covid, whereby Marianne lost her singing voice. This gesture not only showcases the deep respect and admiration the artists have for Faithfull, but also highlights the solidarity and support within the music community.
Faithfull expressed appreciation for the artists who have come together for the benefit album and said. “I’d been very ill, but I am now much better,” she said. “I got Covid very badly, at the same time my best friend, Hal Willner died. When I came around, I had to learn to walk again, and I have done that. I am very lucky; I’m in a good place, I’m happy to be at peace, to not be dying (yet!) and I’ve got very good friends. Part of getting older is being lonely, losing friends, and you kind of have to accept that, but I don’t like it! As you can imagine, my life has changed completely; it’s hard, but it’s beautiful.”
Marianne Faithfull, born on December 29, 1946 in Hamstead, embarked on her singing career in 1964, initially as a folk music performer in coffeehouses. In early 1964, she attended a Rolling Stones launch party alongside artist John Dunbar, where she had the opportunity to meet Andrew Loog Oldham, who would later discover her. Her debut single, “As Tears Go By,” was written and composed by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Oldham, and it achieved significant success on the charts.
Fans can now pre-order the album here, and immerse themselves in the reinterpretations of Faithfull’s timeless classics. The album promises to be a testament to Faithfull’s enduring influence and the impact she has had on generations of musicians.
In a recent preview, The Parkington Sisters and Tanya Donelly of The Breeders shared their rendition of Faithfull’s song, “This Little Bird”. The hauntingly beautiful cover showcases the emotional depth and range of Faithfull’s music, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating the rest of the album .
Tanya Donelly had this to say, “Marianne’s voice has always been one of my favorite instruments, from childhood through today, and her music and spirit have been life-long inspirations. I wanted to cover “This Little Bird” for its fragile and beautiful musical arrangement and melody, and the bittersweet story the lyrics tell. A total honor to get to sing and play this lullaby, and the Parkington Sisters elevate with their vocal and string magic. We’re so grateful to be able to pay tribute to this amazing singer/songwriter and woman..”
Marianne further commented about the tribute album and said, “It has taken a long time for me to be recognized at all for the artist that I am,” she continued. “I’ve never let that poison my existence, my love of my work, and my belief in myself and what I do. I am grateful to the wonderful artists who contributed to this tribute album; that they identify with my art, and that it has moved them in some way, in their own lives, means so much to me. Their interpretations of songs that I have recorded and performed over the course of my 60-plus–year career is incredibly moving. I’m so grateful and feel so much love for all of you!”
One of the most anticipated collaborations on the album is Iggy Pop and Cat Power’s rendition of Faithfull’s interpretation of John Lennon’s “Working Class Hero.” The combination of Iggy Pop’s raw energy and Cat Power’s soulful vocals is sure to breathe new life into this iconic track. Another exciting collaboration is between Shirley Manson of Garbage and Peaches for the track “Why D’Ya Do It.”
Overall, “The Faithful” tribute album is shaping up to be a remarkable composition that not only celebrates the legacy of an iconic artist but also supports her in her recovery.
