Let the music play on: Quincy Jones, legendary producer behind Michael Jackson’s Thriller and countless other hits, has died at 91.
His publicist, Arnold Robinson, announced that Jones "passed away peacefully" Sunday night in his Bel Air home. The news was met with heartfelt tributes from celebrities and fans worldwide.
Jones’ prolific family released a poignant 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."
Known for his groundbreaking work with music icons, Jones produced Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking Thriller album, which revolutionized the music industry.
His stellar seven-decade career saw him achieve global recognition as a composer, arranger, and conductor. His shelves are lined with 28 Grammy Awards, solidifying his place as one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century.
While early in his career, he collaborated closely with Frank Sinatra, even reimagining the crooner’s classic "Fly Me To The Moon," transforming it from a waltz to a swing sensation. His foray into film scoring, starting with the 1969 British film The Italian Job, led to composing soundtracks for over 50 films and TV programs.
A pivotal moment in Jones’ career came when he worked with a 19-year-old Michael Jackson on The Wiz. Their collaboration blossomed into producing Jackson’s Off the Wall, an album that soared to incredible success with 20 million copies sold.
In 1985, Jones united some of America’s brightest stars including Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, and Cyndi Lauper for the iconic song "We Are the World". This collaborative masterpiece raised funds to combat the devastating famine in Ethiopia, mirroring the impact of Band Aid’s "Do They Know It’s Christmas?" in the UK. "We Are the World" claimed the top spot on charts in the US and UK, and was mesmerizingly performed at Live Aid.
Jones wasn’t just a musical visionary; he also made a significant mark on screen. He produced the acclaimed film The Color Purple, introducing the world to then-unknown talents Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg. He also contributed significantly to the hit television show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which captivated audiences worldwide.
This musical mastermind didn’t just confine himself to one genre; he was a master of many. He collected a prestigious array of awards, including Grammys, Emmys, Tonys, and Oscars.
Jones leaves behind seven children, including music producer Quincy Jones III and the acclaimed actress Rashida Jones, known for her role in the US adaptation of The Office.
His legacy as a trailblazer in music and film echoes throughout the world. His music continues to resonate deeply, his influence shaping generations of artists. "Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity through his music and boundless love,” his family poignantly stated.
Interview between Time.news Editor, Sarah Collins, and Music Expert, Dr. James Parker
Sarah Collins: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Parker. We are here to discuss the profound legacy of Quincy Jones, who we lost recently at the age of 91. How are you feeling about his passing?
Dr. James Parker: Thank you for having me, Sarah. It’s a bittersweet moment. While it’s devastating to lose such a stellar figure in music, it also gives us a chance to celebrate his incredible achievements and the indelible mark he left on the industry.
Sarah: Absolutely. His family released a statement that was both heartbreaking and uplifting, emphasizing the importance of celebrating his life. What do you think made Quincy Jones stand out so remarkably in the music world?
Dr. Parker: Quincy was a master of his craft. His versatility as a composer, arranger, and conductor allowed him to transcend genres. He had a unique ability to blend different musical styles, which is evident in his work with artists ranging from Frank Sinatra to Michael Jackson. His production of Thriller not only redefined pop music but also made an indelible imprint on culture at large.
Sarah: Speaking of Thriller, many regard it as one of the most groundbreaking albums in history. What do you think were the key factors that made this collaboration so revolutionary?
Dr. Parker: There were several factors. First, the songwriting was top-notch; Michael Jackson was at his peak creativity. However, Quincy’s production techniques—layering sounds, incorporating elements of jazz and funk—were innovative for the time. He made sure the album was both commercially viable and artistically rich, which set new standards for pop music.
Sarah: It’s fascinating how his career evolved over the decades. From working with Frank Sinatra to scoring films like The Italian Job, Quincy had a hand in popularizing many aspects of contemporary music. Can you talk about his early work and how it shaped his later successes?
Dr. Parker: Certainly! His early collaborations with Sinatra were pivotal. He brought fresh arrangements to classic songs, like transforming “Fly Me To The Moon” into a swing sensation. This not only showcased his strong musicality but also opened him up to broader audiences. His foray into film scoring, especially in the late ’60s, was crucial—it allowed him to explore sonic storytelling. Thus, his early experiences set the foundation for a diverse and successful career.
Sarah: His influence seems to extend beyond just music, touching on social issues and collaborations that broke racial barriers. How did Quincy contribute to changing the landscape of the industry?
Dr. Parker: Quincy was not just a musician; he was also a cultural ambassador. He used his platform to advocate for African American representation in music and film. His success paved the way for future generations of artists across different genres. By collaborating with African American artists in a predominantly white industry, he helped to push boundaries and redefined what success looked like.
Sarah: As we reflect on his legacy, what do you think will be the lasting impact of Quincy Jones on future musicians and producers?
Dr. Parker: Quincy will be remembered as a pioneer—his artistry and ability to innovate will inspire countless musicians. Future producers will look to his work not only for artistic guidance but for lessons in collaboration and creativity. He demonstrated that music has the power to unite, transcend cultural divides, and create profound emotional connections.
Sarah: Dr. Parker, thank you so much for sharing your insights today. Quincy Jones truly was a legend whose influence will resonate for years to come.
Dr. Parker: Thank you, Sarah. It’s been a pleasure discussing his remarkable life and legacy.
