‘Fifth Beatle’ Sir George Martin dies at the age of 90

Record producer Sir George Martin has died aged 90.

George Martin was considered the ‘fifth Beatle’ for his innovative production on their records. And it was Beatles drummer Ringo Starr who broke the news on Twitter.

Martin signed The Beatles and produced more than 700 records. He also worked with artists like Gerry and the Pacemakers and Dame Shirley Bassey.

“I have so many wonderful memories of this great man that will be with me forever,” said Sir Paul McCartney in a statement.

“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.”

Born in North London, Sir George helped The Beatles achieve global success as the head of the Parlophone record label.

In terms of his influence in film, he produced the soundtracks to all The Beatles films and was even nominated for an academy award in 1965 for A Hard Day’s Night. A year later and he produced the title track to Michael Caine’s hit drama Alfie. And it didn’t stop there for Martin as he scored the memorable soundtracks to 1972’s Pulp and iconic James Bond film Live and Let Die.

His family thanked “everyone for their thoughts, prayers and messages of support” after he passed away on Tuesday.