Tributes from the music world and beyond are pouring it for Sir George Martin, the legendary producer of The Beatles’ acclaimed classics, who has died at the age of 90.
Often referred to as the ‘Fifth Beatle’ due to his extensive involvement with the band, Martin acted as producer on all 12 of the ‘Fab Four’s’ studio albums. He also contributed his talents for piano and harpsichord on Beatles tunes such as ‘Lovely Rita’ and ‘Fixing A Hole’ respectively.
The news of his death, which occurred on March 8th, was announced by drummer Ringo Starr via Twitter.
He tweeted: “God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family love Ringo and Barbara George will be missed xxx.”
Sir Paul McCartney wrote on his website: “I’m so sad to hear the news of the passing of dear George Martin. I have so many wonderful memories of this great man that will be with me forever. He was a true gentleman and like a second father to me.”
Although born and raised in London, his Liverpool roots were strong, due to him not only producing for The Beatles, but other Liverpool-based music acts in the 60s, such as Cilla Black and Gerry & The Pacemakers.
Many more figures in both the music and movie industry have registered their condolences.
Sir Roger Moore, who starred in the Bond film ‘Live And Let Die, for which Martin produced the music, wrote: “How very sad to wake to the news Sir George Martin has left us. He made my first Bond film sound brilliant!”
Former Oasis frontman, Liam Gallagher, said on Twitter: “Sir George Martin RIP LG X”
Fellow usician Lenny Kravitz wrote: “The legends are really going home! Visionary producer of #TheBeatles, George Martin (1926-2016).”
Knighted in 1996 for his services to music, Martin was sceptical of his nickname as ‘The Fifth Beatle’ believing that the band’s assistant and roadie Neil Aspinall, who died in 2008, was more deserving of the title.
Sir George leaves behind his wife, Judy Lockhart Smith, who he was married to for nearly 50 years, and four children.