Quincy Jones, the legendary music icon, has died at 91, passing away Sunday night at his Los Angeles home, surrounded by family.
The 28-time Grammy winner, revered as one of music’s most influential figures, was known for producing Michael Jackson’s historic Thriller, creating iconic film and TV scores, and collaborating with stars like Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Ella Fitzgerald. “We celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him,” said his publicist Arnold Robinson.
Throughout his illustrious career, Jones impacted innumerable artists and spearheaded famous projects. His work on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air boosted Will Smith’s reputation, and his business created popular shows such as MadTV. Beyond music, Jones’ life intertwined with historical events. He almost dodged the infamous Manson murd3rs by missing a dinner at Sharon Tate’s house, and he memorably described meeting Pope John Paul, recalling the pope’s “pimp shoes” which made him chuckle.
Jones’ personal anecdotes and unapologetic opinions were as colorful as his career. In a 2018 interview, he called the Beatles “the worst musicians in the world” and famously refused to work with Elvis Presley, whom he claimed was “racist.” He also shared that Sinatra left him a family crest ring and recounted wild times with Sinatra and Ray Charles.
Jones was a trailblazer, emerging from a rough beginnings in Chicago to become one of Hollywood’s first Black executives. At the age of 14, he began his musical career with Ray Charles in Seattle before studying music and relocating to New York, where he collaborated with jazz giants. His career highlights include composing the Roots soundtrack, planning President Bill Clinton’s inaugural party, and crafting iconic tunes such as “Soul Bossa Nova,” which was later popularized by Austin Powers.
Tributes poured in from celebrities, with Michael Caine calling him a “wonderful and unique human being,” and Whoopi Goldberg describing Jones as a steadfast friend. Actor Colman Domingo and musician Darius Rucker also paid heartfelt respects to the man known as “Mr. American Music.”
Despite health issues, including two life-threatening aneurysms in 1974, Jones remained resilient. He attended his own scheduled memorial concert, which he characterized as weird but ultimately uplifting. Jones, who had seven children from three marriages, always joked that having girls balanced his once-wild dating life.
Quincy Jones leaves behind a legacy unparalleled in the music industry. With 28 Grammys, an Emmy, and numerous honors, his contributions shaped modern music and culture. He will be remembered as a titan whose impact on music will resonate for generations.