Bono Pays Tribute To Island Executive

Rob Partridge, the man who signed U2 to Island and worked with countless stars, has passed away following a two year battle with cancer it has been announced.

Partridge worked with the legendary label at its peak, dealing with artists such as Grace Jones, Bob Marley and Tom Waits. A maverick spirit within a maverick label, Patridge was hugely respected within the industry for his vision and single-mindedness.

Rob Partridge was the first man to to champion U2, and indeed signed the band to Island Records. Thereafter he acted as the band's publicist for many years, becoming a close friend of the group.

An obviously saddened Bono issued a statement praising Partridge.

“He not only had an eye for upcoming talent, he was a nurturer... a person who would educate you about the kind of obstacles you were going to meet and how to get over them... a rare human being."

Rob Partidge, the man who signed U2 to Islands Records, has passed away it has been announced.