Madonna and Blur producer William Orbit dies aged 69

Madonna and Blur Producer William Orbit Dies at 69 Acclaimed British producer William Orbit, known for his work with Madonna, Blur, All Saints and U2, died at his home on 23 July aged 69. A statement released Friday by his family and friends said he passed away at home; no cause of death was disclosed. "He will be greatly missed by us and by so many whose lives he touched through his music, friendship and kindness," the statement said. Born in North London as William Wainwright, Orbit helped revitalize Madonna's career in 1998 with the album *Ray of Light*, which fused electronic production, ambient techno and pop. The record won three Grammy Awards and remains, for many, the Queen of Pop's finest work. Orbit also produced Blur's experimental 1999 album *13*, as well as All Saints' chart‑topping *Saints & Sinners*. Additional credits include U2's 2002 single *Electrical Storm*, featured on a compilation by the Irish band. In 1995 he released his own acclaimed electronic‑classical crossover record, *Pieces in a Modern Style*.