It’s a very sad day for Beatles fans worldwide. Sir George Martin CBE, known as “the fifth Beatle”, has died, aged 90.
The record producer who signed The Beatles and produced more than 700 records during his career, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, his manager said.
Martin signed The Beatles in 1962 after a meeting with Epstein at Abbey Road Studios. Martin was impressed by Epstein’s enthusiasm and agreed to sign the unknown Beatles, who had just been turned down by Decca Records, to a recording contract without having met them or seen them play live.
Martin’s broad musical expertise helped to bridge the divide between The Beatles’ raw talent and the sound which set them apart from other music acts of their time. This played an integral part in the Fab Four’s ultimate success, with most of The Beatles’ orchestral arrangements and instrumentation being either written or performed by him.
The Beatles Story feel especially privileged to have on public display George Martin’s hand-written notes from the first ‘Help!’ recording dated 15th February 1965. Beatles expert David Bedford explains, “These notes are important because we get a look into what George Martin was doing with production. We often talk about him being the fifth Beatle, and here you can see what he contributed to the songs.”
Martin King, of The Beatles Story, said: “We are deeply saddened by the death of Sir George and our sincere and heartfelt condolences go out to Giles, Gregory, Alexis and Lucy and his loved ones.
“As a record producer, he will forever be linked and credited with nurturing the sound of The Beatles for generations and essentially for the brilliance of Abbey Road.
“Sir George’s career spanned six decades, which is a phenomenal achievement and his work with The Beatles, Wings, Cilla Black and Jeff Beck among many, many others is a thrilling legacy of who must be a musical genius.
“His passing is deeply sad but he has left many wonderful discoveries for those yet to hear the music of bands Sir George worked with, and that is wonderful to know, that so much enjoyment will still come from his work.”
There is also a book of condolences available at The Beatles Story, Albert Dock for those visitors who wish to pay tribute. If you cannot make it to the attraction today please feel free to leave your tribute on our Facebook page here.
Rest in peace, George.
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