Sir George Martin, legendary producer, arranger and ‘fifth Beatle’, has sadly passed away aged 90.
The revered studio expert oversaw the making of The Beatles’ biggest albums including Rubber Soul, Revolver, Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and Abbey Road.
Born in North London, Sir George was an instrumental figure in the career of the fab four after hearing their first demo in the early sixties.
He helped sign the band to Parlophone and was influential in Ringo Starr joining after he expressed his concerns that then drummer Pete Best was not up to standard.
Adam Sharp, who represented both Martin and his son Giles, said in a statement: ‘We can confirm that Sir George Martin passed away peacefully at home yesterday evening, Tuesday 8 March. The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers and messages of support.
'In a career that spanned seven decades he was recognised globally as one of music’s most creative talents and a gentleman to the end. The family ask that their privacy be respected at this time.'
Ringo Starr tweeted, stating: ‘God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family love Ringo and Barbara George will be missed xxx.’
Sean Ono Lennon, son of Beatle John Lennon, also tweeted: ‘RIP George Martin. I'm so gutted I don't have many words.’
Sir George went on to produce more than 700 records over the course of his musical career including work with the likes of Cilla Black and Dame Shirley Bassey.
He was knighted in 1996, and in 1997 produced Elton John’s reworking of Candle In The Wind, in memory of Princess Diana.
Sir George is survived by his second wife Judy, and their son and daughter. He also leaves a son and daughter from his first marriage.
The revered studio expert oversaw the making of The Beatles’ biggest albums including Rubber Soul, Revolver, Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and Abbey Road.
Born in North London, Sir George was an instrumental figure in the career of the fab four after hearing their first demo in the early sixties.
He helped sign the band to Parlophone and was influential in Ringo Starr joining after he expressed his concerns that then drummer Pete Best was not up to standard.
Adam Sharp, who represented both Martin and his son Giles, said in a statement: ‘We can confirm that Sir George Martin passed away peacefully at home yesterday evening, Tuesday 8 March. The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers and messages of support.
'In a career that spanned seven decades he was recognised globally as one of music’s most creative talents and a gentleman to the end. The family ask that their privacy be respected at this time.'
Ringo Starr tweeted, stating: ‘God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family love Ringo and Barbara George will be missed xxx.’
Sean Ono Lennon, son of Beatle John Lennon, also tweeted: ‘RIP George Martin. I'm so gutted I don't have many words.’
Sir George went on to produce more than 700 records over the course of his musical career including work with the likes of Cilla Black and Dame Shirley Bassey.
He was knighted in 1996, and in 1997 produced Elton John’s reworking of Candle In The Wind, in memory of Princess Diana.
Sir George is survived by his second wife Judy, and their son and daughter. He also leaves a son and daughter from his first marriage.
