Quincy Jones, the monumental architect behind among the most iconic information in American music historical past, handed away Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024, on the age of 91. A real pioneer whose identify is synonymous with musical excellence, Jones’ six-decade profession broke down limitations throughout genres and borders, perpetually reshaping the panorama of contemporary music. His affect was unparalleled, leaving an indelible mark on the sound of Black music and past.
Quincy Jones’ exceptional profession earned him an astounding 80 Grammy nominations, together with a record-breaking 28 Grammy wins, solidifying him as one of the celebrated figures in music historical past. He obtained the Grammy Legend Award in 1991, honoring his immense contributions throughout genres. Past the Grammys, Jones was a two-time Academy Award nominee for his movie scores and earned an Emmy for his work in tv, marking his achievements throughout music, movie and tv.
Jones’ profession started in jazz, enjoying alongside Ray Charles in Seattle earlier than establishing himself in New York, the place he labored as an arranger for artists like Depend Basie, Dinah Washington and Sarah Vaughan. He shortly grew into one of many trade’s most sought-after producers, merging jazz, R&B and pop in a manner that gave a voice to Black music in mainstream areas. His profession within the Nineteen Sixties with Mercury Information marked him as one of many first Black executives at a significant label, a trailblazing accomplishment that positioned him to advocate for Black expertise on a company degree. He later turned the artistic drive behind the hits of musical giants and promising stars alike, together with Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Frank Sinatra and Donna Summer time.
Arguably Jones’ most legendary collaboration was with Michael Jackson. Their partnership started with Off the Wall (1979), the primary of three albums that will change pop music historical past. With Thriller (1982), Jones helped form Jackson’s groundbreaking fashion, producing among the most recognizable tracks of all time, together with “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and “Thriller.” It stays the best-selling album in historical past, capturing Jones’ genius for mixing pop with rock, R&B, and funk. Their last mission collectively, Unhealthy (1987), cemented Jackson as a world icon and showcased Jones’ revolutionary, meticulous manufacturing fashion.
Jones’ work with Jackson was only a fraction of his affect. He elevated Frank Sinatra’s Sinatra on the Sands with lush preparations, formed Aretha Franklin’s Aretha Now, and crafted hits for George Benson’s Give Me the Evening, Chaka Khan’s I Really feel for You and Donna Summer time’s Donna Summer time. His versatility remodeled every artist’s work into timeless anthems.
Past music, Jones leaves an indelible mark in movie and tv. His scores for Within the Warmth of the Evening and The Colour Purple earned him Oscar nominations, whereas his tv compositions, just like the theme for Sanford and Son, are embedded in American popular culture. As one of many first Black executives at a significant label, Jones additionally broke limitations within the trade, laying the groundwork for numerous Black artists and professionals to comply with.
Jones graced the duvet of EBONY 4 occasions, together with his first function in March 1976, chronicling his extraordinary evolution from jazz prodigy to cultural icon. His appearances symbolized his lifelong dedication to uplifting Black voices, utilizing his platform to advocate for fairness and excellence throughout all sides of music and media. On November 19, 2014, Jones was the visitor of honor on the third annual EBONY Energy 100 gala, which was held in Hollywood, California.
Jones was preceded in demise by his brothers, Lloyd and Richard, and his former spouse, actress Peggy Lipton. He’s survived by his seven youngsters, together with actor Rashida Jones and actor and mannequin Kidada Jones, in addition to grandchildren.
