BEVERLY HILLS, CA – The world bids farewell to Quincy Jones, a music legend who passed away at 91 in his Bel-Air home surrounded by his family. Widely revered as one of the most transformative figures in 20th-century music, Jones’ influence spanned seven decades, shaping genres, superstars, and the very fabric of the American songbook.
Born on March 14, 1933, in Chicago, Jones grew up amidst hardship and turbulence. His family’s move to Seattle in 1943 marked the start of his journey into music. It was there that a teenage Jones met Ray Charles, igniting a lifelong friendship that spurred his pursuit of arranging and composing. Charles, who was already an emerging talent, inspired Jones to explore his potential in jazz and beyond.
Jones’ early career was a whirlwind, from touring as a trumpeter with Lionel Hampton to arranging for jazz icons like Sarah Vaughan and Duke Ellington. His tenure as the first Black vice president of Mercury Records in 1964 was groundbreaking and paved the way for countless achievements in composition and production. He scored films like “The Pawnbroker” and created theme music for beloved TV shows, including “Sanford and Son” and “Ironside”, demonstrating his versatility.
But it was in the late 1970s and 1980s that Jones achieved legendary status. His collaboration with Michael Jackson produced three iconic albums—”Off the Wall”, “Thriller”, and “Bad”. “Thriller”, in particular, broke all records, becoming the best-selling album of all time and earning eight Grammy Awards. The seamless blend of pop, R&B, and funk on these albums cemented Jackson as the “King of Pop” and Jones as a mastermind of production.
Tributes have poured in, underscoring Jones’ impact. Actor Michael Caine, born on the same day as Jones, called him his “celestial twin,” praising his talent and unique spirit. Colman Domingo, who worked on “The Color Purple”, remembered Jones as a revered figure whose mere presence commanded admiration. Rapper LL Cool J hailed him as a mentor and father figure, saying, “Music would not be music without you.”
Jones’ family, in a statement, captured the sentiment perfectly: “Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.” His legacy remains in the timeless melodies and rhythms that continue to inspire artists and captivate audiences worldwide.
