Madonna pays tribute to William Orbit: You pressed a magic button inside of me
Los Angeles, Aug 9
The queen of pop Madonna has paid a tribute to the late music producer William Orbit after he passed away at the age of 69.
Madonna took to her Instagram, and shared a video featuring a collection of throwback clips and pictures with William through decades.
She also penned a long note in the caption, as she wrote, "Goodbye, William Orbit. I had an epiphany when I met you and started working with you. I realized that music did not have to fit into categories or genres. So we created our own. You pressed a magic button inside of me and I fell into a galaxy of unrealized dreams. Your music gave me a magic carpet to fly on and I visited many places. Sad and Joyful I sang in ways I'd never sung before. I used words without caring if they made sense or not. In many ways you were my Ray of Light, as was my daughter Lola who was born around this time, I was starting a new chapter, I was choosing another road to walk down, and you were right by my side with your crooked teeth and your genius, way of hearing music".
"The studio was often church like and I would sit in silence, waiting for your ideas to explode out of your keyboard or your guitar and then I would run with them. I miss those days. Only you could inspire me to write a song like Drowned World or Swim. You were so otherworldly. So singular. The years passed and I moved on to make music with other people, but I have never forgotten you or the magical time we spent together. Goodbye Billy Bubbles. I was so lucky to have known you and fallen down the rabbit hole with you. @williamorbit (sic)", she added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As someone who grew up in the 90s, this hits different. William Orbit's production on "Ray of Light" changed pop music forever. Madonna's tribute is so personal and touching - you can really feel the bond they shared. What a loss for the music industry.
Very moving words from Madonna. It's rare to see such vulnerability and gratitude from a megastar. The way she describes their creative process - the silence, the waiting, the explosion of ideas - that's what true artistry is about. May his soul rest in peace. 🕊️
While I appreciate the tribute, I wonder why the Western music industry always gets so much coverage in Indian media. We have so many legendary Indian producers who are equally deserving of recognition. But regardless, it's always sad to lose a talented artist. RIP.
The way Madonna describes him as "otherworldly" and "singular" really resonates. William Orbit wasn't just a producer - he was a visionary who helped artists find their true voice. "Drowned World" and "Swim" are masterpieces. He may be gone, but his music will live forever. ❤️
"You pressed a magic button inside of me and I fell into a galaxy of unrealized dreams." - This line gave me goosebumps. It's beautiful when artists honour those who helped shape their creative journey. William Orbit's legacy will definitely continue to inspire future generations of musicians.
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