British powerhouse music producer William Orbit, known for his work with Madonna, Blur, Pink, and All Saints, has died at age 69.
William Orbit, a giant among British music producers best known for his work with the likes of Madonna, Blur, Pink, and All Saints, has passed away. A statement from his family and friends confirmed that he died at home on July 23. He was 69.
“He will be greatly missed by so many whose lives he touched through his music, friendship, and kindness,” read the statement.
Born William Wainwright, he played a pivotal role in 1998 in reinvigorating Madonna’s career with the album Ray of Light, the artist’s first major foray into electronic dance music blended with pop. The album won three Grammy Awards and remains one of her most popular records.
The pair worked together again in 1999 for her hit “Beautiful Stranger,” which he co-wrote and played on. The song was featured on the soundtrack to Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me and also earned them another Grammy Award.
Also in 1999, Orbit produced Blur’s album 13 and later produced their track “Sweet Song” from Think Tank in 2003.
In addition to working on Madonna’s Music in 2000, Orbit released his solo LP, Pieces in a Modern Style. This record was nominated for a Grammy and is still a beloved electronic-classical crossover. Pieces in a Modern Style peaked at #4 in the UK; a dance remix of his version of Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings” reached #2 on the UK singles chart, becoming a club favorite.
In 2012, Orbit and Madonna reunited once more when he produced six songs on her MDNA album.
Many recordings he worked on resonated with an otherworldly, dreamy vibe across tracks by Madonna, Blur, and the numerous other artists with whom he collaborated. These include releases with Beth Orton and U2, as well as 12 studio albums as a solo artist.
Numerous artists paid tribute to Orbit on social media, including Spice Girl Mel C, Nicole Appleton and Shaznay Lewis of All Saints, Skunk Anansie frontwoman Skin, Sister Bliss of Faithless, and electro-pop artist Georgia.
