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Prince to Madonna, Blur to Beth Orton: William Orbit’s 12 greatest recordings
The late producer’s gift for bringing in elements from dance music’s cutting edge drew all manner of music royalty – and he often made them sound better than ever before
TL;DR
- William Orbit began his career with the band Torch Song, blending pop with experimental electronic music.
- His solo "Strange Cargo" albums explored instrumental dance tracks and synth-drifts, foreshadowing acid house.
- Orbit's remix work and his project with Fascinating Rhythm brought breakbeat-fueled dance-pop to the charts.
- He co-founded Guerilla Records, a progressive house label that released significant electronic music.
- Orbit collaborated with Beth Orton, producing her music and releasing his own versions of their co-authored songs.
- His production on Madonna's "Ray of Light" album was a major commercial and critical success.
- Orbit also produced for Blur, contributing to their album "13", and for All Saints and U2.
- Despite a period of personal struggles, Orbit returned as a solo artist with albums like "The Painter", returning to his electronic roots.