Key facts
- William Orbit, a British music producer, died at age 69 on July 23.
- He died at home.
- Orbit was renowned for his production work with artists such as Madonna, Blur, and All Saints.
- His production on Madonna's 1998 album 'Ray of Light' earned multiple Grammy Awards.
- He also produced Blur's 1999 album '13' and All Saints' hit 'Pure Shores'.
Acclaimed British music producer William Orbit, known for his influential work with artists including Madonna, Blur, and All Saints, has died at the age of 69. A statement released by his family and friends confirmed he passed away at home on July 23.
Orbit's career was significantly shaped by his collaboration with Madonna, particularly her 1998 album 'Ray of Light.' This album, which blended electronic dance music and ambient techno with pop and trip-hop, earned three Grammy Awards and is widely considered a career highlight for the pop icon. He also co-wrote and produced Madonna's 1999 hit 'Beautiful Stranger' for the Austin Powers movie soundtrack.
His production credits extend to Blur's 1999 album '13,' which marked a shift in the band's sound, and All Saints' number one UK single 'Pure Shores,' co-written with group member Shaznay Lewis. Orbit also worked with Pink on 'Feel Good Time' from the 'Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle' soundtrack.
Born William Wainwright, Orbit released 12 solo studio albums, with 'Pieces In A Modern Style' (1999) being a notable electronic-classical crossover record that included a popular dance remix of Samuel Barber's 'Adagio for Strings.' He also formed the electronic trio Torch Song in the 1980s and had a project called Bassomatic, which produced the UK Top 10 hit 'Fascinating Rhythm.'