The death of George Martin, the legendary music producer known as the “fifth Beatle,” brought a wave of nostalgia and appreciation for his keen ear and musical genius.
Ringo Starr broke the news of Martin’s passing by tweeting: “God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family love Ringo and Barbara George will be missed xxx”
Lady Judy Martin was his wife for nearly 50 years.
He followed up with: “Thank you for all your love and kindness George peace and love xx.”
He was followed by a tweet from the Sean Ono Lennon, son of late Beatle John Lennon, who wrote: “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.”
Flea, co-founding member of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, summed up Martin’s impact with a tweet: “George martin. Wow. People made records that were that good.”
One of Martin’s most popular works is his oversight of the “Penny Lane” / “Strawberry Fields Forever” single and the album that often tops the lists of greatest ever: “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.”
Martin’s influence extended well beyond his home in the United Kingdom, where he died Tuesday.
“Sir George Martin was a giant of music – working with the Fab Four to create the world’s most enduring pop music,” tweeted UK Prime Minister David Cameron.
Martin drew tributes from contemporary pop stars to musical legends. The Recording Academy which gives out Grammy Awards, hailed him as “one of the most innovative producers of all time” and described his impact on music as “unparalleled.”