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Producer William Orbit, Madonna collaborator, dies at 69

8/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

William Orbit died at his home on July 23, 2026, aged 69.
He co-produced Madonna’s 1998 album Ray of Light, which earned three Grammys and sold over 16 million copies.
He also produced Blur’s 1999 album 13 and All Saints’ UK-number-one singles “Pure Shores” and “Black Coffee.”
His family asked for privacy following the death.

History

Historical Context

Madonna’s pop legacy has long intertwined with collaborators, from the 2012 single “Superstar” where her daughter Lourdes Leon added background vocals to the 2026 track “The Test” on Confessions II. This multidecade pattern of producer-artist partnerships reflects the 1990s shift toward electronic-driven pop, a trend now resurfacing in catalog releases and streaming platforms.

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Story summary

William Orbit died at his home on July 23, 2026, aged 69.
He co-produced Madonna’s 1998 album Ray of Light, which earned three Grammys and sold over 16 million copies.
He also produced Blur’s 1999 album 13 and All Saints’ UK-number-one singles “Pure Shores” and “Black Coffee.”
His family asked for privacy following the death.

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