Grammy-winning Producer William Orbit Passes Away at 69

WHO:

The Hollywood Reporter - Orbit was born as William Wainwright in December 1956.

Billboard - William Orbit, a Grammy-winning producer and electronic music pioneer.

Variety - Orbit was known for his work with Madonna, All Saints, and Blur.

WHAT:

The Hollywood Reporter - Orbit co-wrote and performed with Madonna on the song “Beautiful Stranger,” which won best song written for visual media at the Grammy Awards.

The Hollywood Reporter - Orbit was nominated for another Grammy for his feature credit on Pink’s “Feel Good Time,” the lead single from the soundtrack of Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003).

Billboard - Orbit worked on Madonna's Grammy-winning album "Ray of Light."

Spin Magazine - Orbit's adventurous approach reshaped the sound of late '90s pop and alternative rock.

Pitchfork - He contributed to several ’90s classics, including "Ray of Light" and Blur's "13."

Variety - Orbit's family confirmed his death in a statement posted to his Instagram account.

WHEN:

Variety - William Orbit died on July 23 at the age of 69.

WHY:

Variety - The family announced his death with profound sadness, indicating the emotional impact of his passing.

HOW:

The Hollywood Reporter - Orbit's family and friends released a statement on social media announcing his death, stating, “He will be greatly missed by us and by so many whose lives he touched through his music, friendship and kindness.”

Variety - The announcement of his death was made via a statement on social media.

(UPDATED August 8, 2026 05:37 UTC)

William Wainwright, known professionally as Orbit, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy as a talented musician and collaborator. He co-wrote and performed with Madonna on the Grammy Award-winning song “Beautiful Stranger” and received another nomination for his work on Pink’s “Feel Good Time.” Orbit's family and friends shared a heartfelt statement on social media, expressing that he will be greatly missed by those whose lives he touched through his music, friendship, and kindness.

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(UPDATED August 7, 2026 15:50 UTC)

William Orbit, the Grammy-winning producer and electronic music pioneer known for his work with artists like Madonna and Blur, has passed away at the age of 69. His family shared the news with profound sadness through a statement on social media, highlighting the emotional impact of his loss. Orbit was celebrated for his adventurous approach that reshaped the sound of late '90s pop and alternative rock, contributing to iconic albums such as Madonna's "Ray of Light" and Blur's "13."