William Orbit obit

William Orbit dead: Madonna and U2 legend dies as family pay heartbroken tribute

The music icon worked with some of the biggest names in the industry during his career.

 

He was not on the list.

Acclaimed British music producer William Orbit, real name William Mark Wainwright, who worked with iconic artists such as Madonna, Blur, All Saints and U2, died on Thursday, July 23, at the age of 69. The news was confirmed in a social media post on his official Instagram page accredited to his family and friends, who said: "We are deeply saddened by his passing. He will be greatly missed by us and by so many whose lives he touched through his music, friendship and kindness." They requested that their privacy be respected.

The Grammy-winning star was most famous for his 1998 collaboration with Madonna on her acclaimed album Ray of Light. The recording marked a new musical direction for the Queen of Pop and spawned hits such as the title track, the haunting Frozen and the ballad The Power of Goodbye. It had multi-platinum sales across the world, and won Madonna three of the five Grammy awards she was nominated for the following year.

Other notable collaborations include Blur’s sixth studio album, 13, which continued the band's move away from the Britpop sound that made them famous. He was also credited on All Saints’ massive UK No 1 hit Pure Shores.

He found chart success under his own steam with Barber’s Adagio for Strings, which was remixed by Ferry Corsten, as well as 2003’s Feel Good Time, from the Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle soundtrack on which he was co-credited alongside superstar singer Pink.

He left school at 16 and worked in various low-paying jobs for several years. It was while living with a friend who was trying to start a recording studio that he found his musical calling. This led to his first foray into the industry in 1980, when he teamed up with electronic musician Laurie Mayer and Grant Gilbert to form the electronic/synth group Torch Song.

Music legends rushed to pay tribute upon learning of his death. All Saints star Shaznay Lewis simply shared a broken heart emoji. Newlywed Mel C penned: "Such an honour to have worked with this great man. Sending all my love xxx,"

Dance music icon Sonique wrote: "He was one of the first people I ever worked with. I am so sad to hear this. Sending all my love to his family. RIP, my friend."

S-Express star Mark Moore commented: "So sorry to hear this. William was and still is one of my favourite producers/musicians. Thank you, William, for many thrilling, late-night studio sessions at yours, and the groundbreaking music you made and gave to the world. Safe journeys William."

Meanwhile, X-Factor and Happy Mondays alum Rowetta simply lamented: "So so sad. RIP William."