Paul McCartney: George Martin Was Like a Second Father to me

9 March 2016

Sir Paul McCartney has paid tribute to the late Sir George Martin, describing the producer as like a "second father" to him.

Sir Paul McCartney

Following the news Martin had passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday (08.03.16) at the age of 90, the former Beatles musician spoke of his great love for the man known as the 'Fifth Beatle' and praised him for the impact he had on his career and life.

In a statement, the 'Blackbird' singer said: "I have so many wonderful memories of this great man that will be with me forever. He was a true gentleman and like a second father to me.

"He guided the career of The Beatles with such skill and good humour that he became a true friend to me and my family. If anyone earned the title of the 'Fifth Beatle' it was George.

"From the day that he gave The Beatles our first recording contract, to the last time I saw him, he was the most generous, intelligent and musical person I've ever had the pleasure to know."

Martin signed The Beatles - also comprised of the late John Lennon and George Harrison and Ringo Starr - to Parlophone in June 1962 after meeting their manager Brian Epstein twice and the hearing The Fab Four audition for him.

They worked together on the band's first single 'Love Me Do' in September 1962 and it was the start of their close working relationship and The Beatles' phenomenal career which changed the course of pop music.

A host of music stars such as ex-Oasis singer Liam Gallagher, Mark Ronson and Boy George have all paid tribute to Martin in the wake of his passing.

Martin's son Giles - who is also a producer - has now taken to Twitter to remember his dad admitting he was so "proud" to be his son.

Giles - whose mother is Martin's widow Judy Lockhart Smith - tweeted: "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."

Starr was the first Beatle to pay his respects to Martin, tweeting: "God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family love Ringo and Barbara George will be missed xxx. (sic)"

George Harrison's widow Olivia and son Dhani have now paid tribute to the guitarist's late friend.

Tweeting from the Fab Four member's official Twitter account, they said: "George Martin was a gentleman above all. May he rest in peace. Our thoughts are with Judy & the family at this sad time -Olivia and Dhani (sic)"