Quincy Jones, the legendary music producer and multifaceted creative force whose career spanned over seven decades, passed away on November 3, at the age of 91 in his Bel Air home.
A Pioneering Force in Music
Known for producing Michael Jackson’s Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad, Jones’ work transcended genres and generations.
Collaborating with icons like Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and Ella Fitzgerald, he earned 28 Grammys and a record-breaking 79 nominations.
“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,” his family said in a statement.
A Trailblazer in Music Technology
Jones was an early adopter of music technology, using the Fender Bass in jazz—years before it defined rock and Motown—and experimenting with cutting-edge keyboard programming for Michael Jackson’s hits like “Billie Jean.”
His innovation extended beyond the studio—he backed Musimap, an emotional AI music startup, and co-founded Playground Sessions, an interactive platform for learning piano.
Jones also launched Qwest TV, a jazz and global music streaming service.
In an interview with MusicRadar, Jones noted, “The future of music is tied to understanding how technology can enhance creativity rather than replace it.”
A Legacy Beyond Music
Jones’ impact went beyond his discography. He launched Vibe magazine to spotlight Black artists and fostered young musicians in later years, leaving a mark on the industry.
On the big screen, Jones also produced the film The Color Purple, which introduced the public to two then unknown performers – Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg.
On the small screen, he was one of the producers behind the hit TV show The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
He also established the Quincy Jones Listen Up Foundation, a nonprofit that focused on connecting youth with technology, education, culture, and music.
The foundation helped build over 100 homes in South Africa, showcasing Jones’ commitment toto empowerment through education, innovation, and community support.
Feature Image Credit: Getty Images
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