In a profound loss for the music world, Quincy Jones, the legendary producer, composer, and musician behind some of the 20th century’s biggest hits, has passed away at 91. Known for his work with icons like Michael Jackson and Ray Charles, Jones’s influence spanned genres and generations, shaping the soundtracks of millions of lives.
Jones’s family shared the sad news in a heartfelt statement: “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing. And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”
Quincy Jones leaves behind an unparalleled legacy. He was the genius behind Michael Jackson’s Thriller, the best-selling album of all time, with over 65 million copies sold globally, according to Rolling Stone. Jackson’s hits didn’t stop there, thanks to Jones. He also produced Bad and Off the Wall, helping to catapult Jackson into pop royalty. Jones was Jackson’s musical partner in crime, pushing boundaries and redefining pop music with every beat.
Beyond his pop partnerships, Jones’s influence ran deep across genres and mediums. He worked with the greats: Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin, Donna Summer, and Will Smith, to name just a few. And he didn’t just stop at music; he left his mark on film and television as well. Quincy scored and produced for a host of films and series, including The Wiz, The Colour Purple, Roots, The Italian Job, and even the unforgettable theme for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, a show for which he served as an executive producer.
Jones wasn’t content to just stay behind the mixing board. Over the years, he released solo albums that dabbled in everything from jazz to hip-hop, blending R&B, soul, funk, and disco into his own unique sound. His ground-breaking work garnered a staggering 80 Grammy nominations, earning him 28 wins and securing his place as one of the most awarded artists in Grammy history.
Born on March 14, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, Jones discovered music early. By 14, he was jamming alongside a young Ray Charles in Seattle, where he studied music and began a career that would see him play with legends like Billie Holiday and Elvis Presley.
Jones was a father, husband, and mentor, with a family as dynamic as his career. He was married three times, to actress Peggy Lipton, model Ulla Jones, and Jeri Caldwell, and had seven children, including actress Rashida Jones from Parks and Recreation. His influence extended not only through his family but also through countless musicians and fans worldwide.
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