William Orbit: Madonna and Blur producer dies aged 69

Acclaimed British music producer William Orbit, known for his work with acts including Madonna, Blur, All Saints and U2, has died at the age of 69.

A statement released on Friday by Orbit’s family and friends said he died at home on 23 July. No cause of death was given.

“He will be greatly missed by us and by so many whose lives he touched through his music, friendship and kindness,” the statement said.

North London-born Orbit, who real name was William Wainwright, helped to reinvigorate Madonna’s career in 1998 with the album Ray of Light, which blended electronic dance music and ambient techno with pop.

It went on to win three Grammy Awards and remains, for many people, the Queen of Pop’s greatest record.

Blur’s experimental 1999 record 13 also came under the influence of Orbit, along with All Saints’ chart-topping album Saints & Sinners.

His other credits included U2’s 2002 single Electrical Storm, which was featured on a compilation album by the Irish band.

Orbit released his own acclaimed electronic-classical crossover record, Pieces in a Modern Style, in 1995.