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Quincy Jones, the legendary composer, producer, musician, and cultural icon, passed away on November 3, leaving an indelible mark on music and entertainment. His family shared, “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.”
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Born in Chicago in 1933, Jones’ talent and determination led him from jazz clubs to the global stage. Starting as a jazz trumpeter, he quickly expanded his influence as a composer, producer, and arranger, touching nearly every genre. Over seven decades, Jones worked with a roster of iconic acts that defined American music—Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and Michael Jackson, whose landmark albums "Off the Wall," "Thriller," and "Bad" Jones produced. His work and mentorship extended across generations, and his collaborations spanned eras and styles.
Jones made history with his work in film, becoming one of the first African Americans to receive an Oscar nomination for his score in "The Color Purple." He also scored "The Wiz" (1978), the groundbreaking all-Black musical adaptation of "The Wizard of Oz." The soundtrack, featuring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson, captured the vibrant sound of Black America and solidified Jones’ role in bringing cultural pride and fresh, soulful energy to Hollywood.
Beyond music and film, Jones was instrumental in bringing "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" to television, a show that became an enduring part of American culture and showcased Black talent to mainstream audiences. His work as an author was equally insightful, particularly in "12 Notes: On Life and Creativity," where he wrote, “Music is the foundation of everything I do—it’s my compass, my voice, my salvation.” For Jones, music was a universal language, reaching “beyond barriers” and connecting hearts worldwide.
Throughout his career, Jones received numerous accolades: 28 Grammy Awards, including a Grammy Legend Award, an Emmy, and an Academy Honorary Award. He also received the Kennedy Center Honor and countless lifetime achievement awards, underscoring his status as one of America’s greatest musical innovators.
Jones is survived by his seven children—Jolie, Quincy III, Martina, Kenya, Rachel, Kidada, and Rashida—and his brother, Lloyd. As the world says goodbye, his influence lives on through the countless artists he inspired and the timeless music he created. Quincy Jones didn’t just shape music; he transformed it, leaving a melody that will echo for generations to come.
So long, Quincy. Your music and spirit will always be a part of us.