Music review: The music world loses another legend
After hearing the news last week that George Martin had passed away peacefully in his sleep, my very first instinct was to pull out my copy of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” and give it a sentimental listen.
Often labeled as the “Fifth Beatle,” it was under Martin’s influence that John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr were encouraged to experiment with different sounds and recording techniques that helped to shape the classic 1967 release into one of the most influential recordings of all time.
While head of EMI’s Parlophone, the British arranger, producer, music executive and musician will forever hold the distinction of being the person who signed the Beatles back in 1962, after the band had been rejected by countless other producers and record labels. Martin would continue to produce the majority of the band’s albums over the next several years.
Chances are that if you own an album by the Fab Four, then you are familiar with Martin’s genius and keen ear for creating wonderful arrangements that are simply timeless.
In addition to the Beatles, Martin would go on to produce noteworthy albums for artists such as Kenny Rogers, Jeff Beck, America, Neil Sedaka and Stan Getz. Two of my favorite releases produced by Martin that were not for the Beatles are UFO’s “No Place to Run” and Cheap Trick’s “All Shook Up,” both released in 1980. If you are a fan of well-crafted rock music, I strongly urge you to give both albums an attentive listen.
In 1997, he re-recorded Elton John’s “Candle in the Wind” as a moving tribute to Princess Diana. Martin’s version would go on to become one of the best-selling singles ever.
During his stellar career, he won several Grammy Awards and was nominated for an Oscar for his work on “A Hard Day’s Night.” Martin was knighted in 1996 and was inducted in the Rock and roll Hall of Fame in 1999.
For years, some select albums by the Beatles proudly decorate my hallway at home. Now, each day I walk by these glorious pieces of work, I’ll be reminded of the genius and creative spirit that was George Martin.
Oh, how I long for yesterday.