Iggy Pop, Shirley Manson, and Cat Power are a few of the artists who’ve contributed to The Faithful: A Tribute to Marianne Faithfull, an upcoming covers compilation honoring the legendary English singer. Before it’s out in full December 8th, Tanya Donelly (Belly, The Breeders) & The Parkington Sisters have shared their rendition of “This Little Bird.”
Also featuring fellow icons like Peaches, Lydia Lunch, Bush Tetras, Donita Sparks, and more, The Faithful is a benefit album that hits especially close to home: All profits will go directly to assist Faithfull as she recovers from long COVID. Donnelly and the Parkingtons do their forebear justice with their cover of “This Little Bird,” with layered vocal harmonies and delicate, complex string arrangements.
“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,” Donnelly says in a press release. “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.”
Back in 2021, Faithfull revealed she’d lost her singing voice due to her initial bout of COVID. Not long after, she shared a spoken word album called She Walks in Beauty, which featured contributions from Nick Cave and Brian Eno.
The Faithful: A Tribute to Marianne Faithfull Artwork: