Paul McCartney (Photo: Paul Bachmann for Live4ever Media)
Surviving Beatles Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr have paid tribute to their former producer George Martin, who died yesterday (March 8th) at the grand old age of 90.
Writing on Facebook – it can be read in full here – McCartney has said Martin was the one who truly earned the much bandied around tag of ‘fifth Beatle’, and spoke of the ‘many wonderful memories’ he will always have of their time together.
“I’m so sad to hear the news of the passing of dear George Martin,” the post begins. “I have so many wonderful memories of this great man that will be with me forever. 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.”
Meanwhile, Ringo Starr was the first to remember Martin on Twitter, writing:
“Thank you for all your love and kindness George, peace and love. God bless George Martin, peace and love to Judy and his family, love Ringo and Barbara. George will be missed.”
George Martin’s passing was confirmed by his representative Adam Sharp in a statement, who said he died ‘peacefully at home’.