Sir George Martin, the Fifth Beatle, dies aged 90

According to reports, Sir George Martin had died at the age of 90; an outpouring of affection and sorrow unmatched by the standards of most celebrity deaths.

From respected artists to ordinary music fans and politicians, anyone for whom music is important to their lives paused and reflected on the passing of the man who came to be known as ‘the fifth Beatle’.

Fittingly it was Ringo Starr, one of the two surviving Beatles, who told the world of Sir George’s death, announcing the news on his Twitter feed at 4.19am on Thursday.

He said: “God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family love Ringo and Barbara George will be missed.”

A few minutes later Starr added: “Thank you for all your love and kindness George peace and love.”

McCartney also paid tribute to the creative genius of Sir George, crediting the producer with introducing the band to new instruments, sounds and recording techniques.

“The world has lost a truly great man who left an indelible mark on my soul and the history of British music,” he said.

Harrison’s widow Olivia and his son Dhani Tweeted: “George Martin was a gentleman above all. May he rest in peace. Our thoughts are with Judy & the family at this sad time.”

The Prime Minister, David Cameron, was among the first to pay his respects to all that Sir George had achieved in his seven-decade career, which took in classical, jazz, comedy and of course The Beatles, along with performers such as former Beach Boy Brian Wilson, Elton John and Pete Townshend.

Mr Cameron said: “Sir George Martin was a giant of music - working with the Fab Four to create the world's most enduring pop music.”

John Whittingdale, the culture secretary, described the producer as “the elder statesman of British pop music and creative genius".

The tributes crossed the generational divide, with younger musicians such as Liam Gallagher and Mark Ronson, producer of numerous hit singles, expressing their loss alongside older practitioners, including the veteran US musician and producer Quincy Jones – who described Sir George as “a brother” – Brian May and former Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett.

Then there were the heartfelt personal tributes, from those who knew and loved him, as a man as well as a record producer.

Sir George's son Giles, who is also a producer and has worked at Abbey Road studios, wrote: "RIP dad. I love you. I'm so proud to have been your son. I'll miss you more than words can say. Thank you for the all times we had together."

Sean Lennon, the son of John Lennon and Yoko One, said: “George Martin. I'm so gutted I don't have many words. Thinking of Judy and Giles and family. Love Always, Sean.”

Geraldox wrote “Your contribution to the Music Industry will forever be in our heart”