Sir George Martin: Tributes To A 'Visionary'
Ringo Starr thanks "the fifth Beatle" for "all your love and kindness" as the music world pays tribute to the record producer.
Wednesday 9 March 2016 07:33, UK
Tributes have been paid to record producer Sir George Martin, who was nicknamed "the fifth Beatle", after his death at the age of 90.
Sir George's manager Adam Sharp said he was a "true gentleman to the end".
He 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.
"The family ask that their privacy be respected at this time."
Others who worked with Sir George - and figures from the wider music world - have been reacting to the news and paying tribute.
In a statement, Sir Paul McCartney said: "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."
Ringo Starr wrote on Twitter: "God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family ... Thank you for all your love and kindness George peace and love xx."
Sean Ono Lennon, son of John and Yoko, posted an Instagram picture of Sir George with the caption: "R.I.P. George Martin. I'm so gutted I don't have many words. Thinking of Judy and Giles and family. Love Always, Sean."
British musician Cat Stevens, who now goes by the name of Yusuf Islam, tweeted: "Sad to hear George Martin passed away. Most influential music producer & a man of good character. Rest in Peace. Condolences to his family."
Oasis founding member Liam Gallagher also expressed his condolences on Twitter, simply writing: "Sir George Martin RIP LG x."
Singer Lenny Kravitz聽tweeted: "The legends are really going home! Visionary producer of The Beatles, George Martin (1926-2016)."
Sir Roger Moore also used Twitter to pay his tribute, writing:聽"How very sad to wake to the news Sir George Martin has left us. He made my first Bond film sound brilliant!"
The actor's first James Bond film was Live And Let Die, which Sir George composed a score for.
Musician Quincy Jones wrote: "RIP to my musical brother George Martin.
"We were friends since 1964, & I am so thankful 4 that gift. Bless u & your precious posse 4ever."
Singer Josh Groban said: "Every time I record at Abbey Road I geek out and play with the mics Sir George Martin used. What an ear, what a life, what a legacy."
Producer Mark Ronson tweeted: "Thank you Sir George Martin: the greatest British record producer of all time. We will never stop living in the world you helped create."
Singer Boy George wrote: "Sir George Martin. Gentleman and legend. R.I.P."