Producer Sir George Martin has passed away at the age of 90 years old. He was reported to have died “peacefully at home” in England on Tuesday, March 8, according to Adam Sharp, founder of C A Management, who represented Martin.
In 1998, Music Connection spoke at length with Martin about his storied career, as well as his then-new In My Life album featuring guest performers Robin Williams, Jim Carrey, Celine Dion, Billy Connolly and others. The CD is composed almost entirely of cover versions of Beatles songs which Martin had produced originally.
Martin was well-known for his collaboration with The Beatles, and was sometimes referred to as the “fifth Beatle.” In addition to producing, he was also an arranger, composer, conductor, audio engineer and musician, and worked with other artists such as Kenny Rogers, Cheap Trick, Elton John, Celine Dion and many more.
Sentiments for Martin are being shared around the world:
Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy, states, "We are very saddened to learn about the passing of six-time Grammy® Award winner and Trustees Award recipient Sir George Martin. As many fans of the Beatles know, George’s work as producer, engineer, arranger, conductor and musician was instrumental to the massive success of the group, and he was fondly referred to as ‘the fifth Beatle.’ Having worked on hundreds of recordings, he was one of the most innovative producers of all time and his impact on music is unparalleled. Our creative community has lost a gifted artist, and our thoughts go out to his family, his friends, and the many musicians with whom he collaborated."
Audio engineer/producer Geoff Emerick says, “The news of the passing of Sir George Martin is sad, however the mark he left on the music world is indisputable. I had the pleasure of sitting and working side by side with him during the creation of the most iconic music of The Beatles. He was a true gentleman, and we had the same sense of humor. He was like a father to me. I’m proud to have shared so many memorable years with him."
Image from georgemartinmusic.com.
