Quincy Jones, the legendary musician, producer, and arranger, has died at 91. Jones passed away Sunday night at his Bel Air, California, home, surrounded by family, according to a statement from his publicist. “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” his family said. They described Jones as “one of a kind” and took solace in knowing his “love and joy… shared with the world… will beat for eternity.”
Jones, whose career spanned more than 70 years, became a force across jazz, pop, R&B, and film music, working with stars from Frank Sinatra to Michael Jackson. As a composer, producer, and civil rights advocate, Jones built a legacy that extended far beyond music. He received 28 Grammy Awards, multiple Oscars, and became an icon of American entertainment.
Quincy Jones: From Humble Beginnings to Worldwide Fame
Born in Chicago, Jones developed a love for music as a child and learned piano before his family moved to Seattle, where he met a young Ray Charles. They would remain lifelong friends. His early musical promise led him to study at Boston’s Berklee College of Music before touring with jazz great Lionel Hampton. By his twenties, Jones was arranging and recording for legends like Count Basie and Sarah Vaughan.
In 1964, Jones became the first Black executive at a major record label when he was promoted to vice president of Mercury Records. During his tenure, he produced hits for Leslie Gore and later worked with stars like Frank Sinatra. Their 1966 live album, Sinatra at the Sands, remains a classic.
A Legacy Defined by Vision and Activism
One of Jones’ most defining partnerships was with Michael Jackson, producing the groundbreaking albums Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad. Their work on Thriller cemented it as the best-selling album of all time. In 1985, Jones organized “We Are the World,” the charity single for African famine relief featuring an all-star lineup. Reflecting on his career, Jones once said, “I never thought about it until I hit 80, but I have been blessed to work with every major music star in the history of America.”
Jones’ influence extended to television as the executive producer of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, introducing Will Smith to Hollywood. He was also an advocate for racial equality and education, a passion that earned him honors like the National Medal of Arts.
Jones’ family mourns their loss but celebrates his remarkable contributions. “He shared the essence of his being through his creations,” they shared. His work and spirit, they say, will continue to inspire for generations.