Electronic producer William Orbit has died aged 69.
In a statement posted to social media, Orbit (born William Wainwright) was announced to have passed away at home on July 23. No cause of death was given.
“We are deeply saddened by his passing,” the statement read. “He will be greatly missed by us and by so many whose lives he touched through his music, friendship and kindness.”
A prolific producer in his own right, Orbit worked with a number of musicians including Madonna, Blur, Ricky Martin, Britney Spears and more. He also produced and co-wrote the 2000 hit All Saints ‘Pure Shores’ – which famously featured in the film The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio – and worked with U2 to produce a version of their 2002 hit single ‘Electrical Storm’.
Melanie C, who worked with him for her debut album ‘Northern Star’, was among those to pay tribute. She wrote: “Such an honour to have worked with this great man. Sending all my love xxx”.
All Saints singer Melanie Blatt also wrote on her Instagram: “So so sad.@williamorbit such an important part of our success and history. RIP”
Rowetta shared that she was “such a huge fan” of the producer and “used to get ready” to his music and “sing along every night”, and DJ Dave Pearce wrote on X that the late artist had “incredible talent” that “his production skills were responsible for so many amazing tracks over the years”.
