Record producer Sir George Martin, known as the “fifth Beatle”, has died, aged 90.
Martin’s death was confirmed by Adam Sharp, his manager in the U.K. In a statement, Sharp said: “Sir George Martin passed away peacefully at home yesterday evening, Tuesday March 8th. The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers and messages of support.”
Ringo Starr thanked the producer in a tweet: “God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family.” Judy refers to Martin’s wife of nearly 50 years..
Martin signed The Beatles in 1962 and produced more than 700 records in his career with artists including Gerry and the Pacemakers, Dame Shirley Bassey and Cilla Black.
Paul McCartney issued a statement on his website: “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. He guided the career of The Beatles with such skill and good humour that he became a true friend to me and my family. If anyone earned the title of the fifth Beatle it was George.
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.”
