The man who produced legendary rock band The Beatles, and guided their rise to prominence, George Martin, has died aged 90.
Martin reportedly died ‘peacefully’ early Wednesday, The Beatles drummer Ringo Starr revealed on Twitter.
In a statement, his manager Adam Sharp said:
“The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers and messages of support.
“In a career that spanned seven decades, he was an inspiration to many and is recognised globally as one of music’s most creative talents. He was a true gentleman to the end.”
Martin signed the group to his Parlophone record label in 1962, after hearing a demo tape. The rest, as they say, is history.
He led them through the next few years to record hit after hit, so much so that he has frequently been described as the ‘fifth Beatle’.
And Sir Paul McCartney echoed those sentiments in his statement on Martin’s death.
“If anyone earned the title of the fifth Beatle it was George.” His statement read. “From the day that he gave The Beatles our first recording contract, to the last time I saw him, he was the most generous, intelligent and musical person I’ve ever had the pleasure to know.
“The world has lost a truly great man who left an indelible mark on my soul and the history of British music.”
Sir George Martin was knighted in 1996, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999. May he rest in peace.
Thank you for all your love and kindness George peace and love xx?✌️?? pic.twitter.com/um2hRFB7qF
— #RingoStarr (@ringostarrmusic) March 9, 2016