The music industry has paid tribute to legendary producer George Martin,

The music industry has paid tribute to legendary producer George Martin, considered the ‘Fifth Beatle’ for his work with the band, who has died at the age of 90.
Drummer Ringo Starr announced the news on Twitter this morning, saying: “God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family love Ringo and Barbara George will be missed xxx.” He then tweeted a photo of the band with Martin, with the caption: “Thank you for all your love and kindness George peace and love xx:”
Paul McCartney remembered "a true gentleman" and "second father". "I’m so sad to hear the news of the passing of dear George Martin," he said. "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."
Sean Ono Lennon, the youngest son of John Lennon, tweeted: "RIP George Martin. I'm so gutted I don't have many words.
Sir George Martin, who was knighted in 1996, signed The Beatles as head of music at Parlophone after other major labels, including Decca, had passed on them and produced the majority of their music. Including his work with other acts such as Cilla Black, Gerry & The Pacemakers and Kenny Rogers, Martin worked on 30 UK No.1 singles. The veteran producer was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in March 1999 and into the UK Music Hall Of Fame in 2006. Other artists and producers, as well as music execs, have paid tribute online.
Abbey Road Studios expressed its “deepest condolences” to the Martin family. ”Sir George transformed music recording with his creative flair, innovation and passion and we want to express our deep sadness at losing such an immensely talented, charming and warm man,” it said in a statement. “We are committed to ensuring Sir George's visionary legacy lives forever at Abbey Road Studios, and we are hugely honoured to be part of his story.”
ROAR Global founder Jonathan Shalit said: "23 years ago in 1993 George Martin changed the direction of my career and ultimately my life. I am for ever indebted. When I was a no one this colossus of a man agreed to see me and within 15 minutes said 'I am in' to produce the album I had conceived called ‘The Glory of Gershwin’.‎ We then worked together on his own tribute album to himself called 'In My Life'.
"I remember one dinner party at my apartment when George played the piano accompanied by Larry Adler on harmonica with Sting and Cher duet partners for a Gershwin song. The nature of the man is best exemplified when Sir Elton John came into the studio to speak to George who was at the time in conversation with me. Embarrassingly, George insisted on finishing our conversation before turning to Sir Elton. Everyone was equal in Sir George's eyes."
In 2013, the Music Producers Guild (MPG) presented Sir George with its top accolade – an Outstanding Contribution to UK Music Award. MPG Full member Tony Platt said: "Sir George set the tone for record production, and in particular British record production, by putting the artist at the centre of the music making process rather than treating them as a product. He did what he did really well and that made a massive difference to the way in which professional music production developed over subsequent years. He was also a charming and funny man who will be sadly missed.”
Producer Nigel Godrich tweeted: "George Martin, my hero. So sad. The definitive record producer.. such a gentleman and was so kind to me. He did it all first.. and best." Mark Ronson said: Thank you Sir George Martin: the greatest British record producer of all time. We will never stop living in the world you helped create."
Geoff Taylor, chief executive BPI & BRIT Awards, said: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sir George Martin, an iconic producer and musical visionary whose work with The Beatles and other artists helped to lay the foundations for the extraordinary global success of British music. He leaves an unparalleled creative legacy which will continue to shape our popular culture for generations to come. We will remember him with great fondness not only for his exceptional achievements, but for the kindness and generosity he showed throughout his career in helping others.”
Peter Leathem, PPL, CEO, commented: "On behalf of all our thousands of members, everyone at PPL is saddened to hear of the passing of Sir George. His genius as a producer will be recognised for ever but he worked tirelessly for others - producers, musicians, charitable causes - and our thoughts go to his family and Judy, his wife, with whom PPL has several ties."