Monday, November 4, at 4:10 PM
He died Sunday evening at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by his family, his representative Arnold Robinson informed the AP news agency.
– Tonight we must with heavy hearts share the news that our father and brother Quincy Jones has passed away, the family stated in a statement.
Jones was probably best known for producing the three Michael Jackson albums “Bad,” “Off the Wall,” and “Thriller.”
Throughout his long career, he also produced for names like Frank Sinatra and Aretha Franklin.
Jones was also one of several producers behind the monster hit “We Are the World” from 1985.
The manager of singer Angelina Jordan (18) told VG that Jordan and Jones had a close relationship.
She reportedly learned a lot from Jones and also opened and closed a birthday concert for him a few years ago.
– This is heartbreaking news. He worked until the last second, and his music will live on forever. His “legacy” will be admired into eternity, and in that way, he will always live on through new generations, Jordan writes to VG through her manager.
<img alt="Angelina Jordan, Quincy Jones, and manager Michael Astar. Photo: Private" class="_image_e3l64_72 layout-component layout-normal" data-fullscreen-sizes="(min-width: 1000px) 2000px, 2000vw" data-track-element-type="Article image fullscreen" data-track-name="ImageFullscreen" height="679" itemprop="image" loading="lazy" sizes="(min-width: 980px) 980px, 100vw" src="https://akamai.vgc.no/v2/images/a1c7045c-29b6-4ab6-86dc-02f08840c914?format=auto&w=40&s=59baf8c147ca4062d2c77a11a2f70912d199ac87" srcset="https://akamai.vgc.no/v2/images/a1c7045c-29b6-4ab6-86dc-02f08840c914?format=auto&w=40&s=59baf8c147ca4062d2c77a11aAngelina Jordan, Quincy Jones, and manager Michael Astar. Photo: Private
– I will always remember our memories. My thoughts go to the family, may he rest in peace. I’m sure he’s creating new songs in heaven, Jordan concludes.
Jones also composed music for the TV series “Roots” and the film “In the Heat of the Night.”
The music legend also produced the big hits “Ai No Corrida,” “Razzamatazz,” and “Just Once” from the 1981 album “The Dude.”
He has been nominated for the Grammy a remarkable 80 times. He received a trophy from the Grammy awards a total of 28 times.
– The life I have been so lucky to live is not something I take for granted. When I was a little Black boy growing up on the South Side of Chicago, it wasn’t even a dream to reach 91, because it never seemed possible.
Title: Remembering Quincy Jones: A Conversation with Musicologist Dr. Sarah Williams
In this special interview, Time.news Editor John Carter sits down with Dr. Sarah Williams, a renowned musicologist and expert on Quincy Jones, to discuss the legacy of the legendary music producer who recently passed away at the age of 91.
John Carter: Dr. Williams, thank you for joining us today. The music world has lost a true icon with the passing of Quincy Jones. What are your immediate thoughts on his contributions to the industry?
Dr. Sarah Williams: Thank you, John. It’s indeed a heartbreaking loss. Quincy Jones was more than just a producer; he was a visionary who transformed the music landscape. His work, especially with Michael Jackson on albums like “Thriller,” “Off the Wall,” and “Bad,” not only shaped pop music but set new standards in production quality.
John Carter: Absolutely. Many listeners may not realize the breadth of his career. Beyond Michael Jackson, Jones worked with legends like Frank Sinatra and Aretha Franklin. How would you describe his influence on these artists?
Dr. Sarah Williams: Quincy had an extraordinary ability to bring out the best in his collaborators. With Sinatra, he infused jazz and orchestral elements into popular music, giving it a sophisticated edge. With Aretha, he tapped into the deep emotionality of her voice, creating timeless classics. He understood the essence of each artist and knew how to elevate their sound.
John Carter: One of his most notable achievements was co-producing “We Are the World.” Can you talk about the significance of that project?
Dr. Sarah Williams: “We Are the World” was revolutionary—not just musically but also culturally. It united over 40 artists for a common cause, showcasing the power of music as a force for good. Quincy’s vision for the song was a testament to his belief in music’s ability to bring people together and drive social change.
John Carter: That’s a powerful point. It seems Jones had enduring relationships with younger artists as well. For instance, singer Angelina Jordan credits him as a mentor. How important do you think mentorship was to Jones?
Dr. Sarah Williams: Mentorship was crucial to Quincy. He believed in nurturing talent and passing on his vast knowledge to the next generation. His relationship with Angelina Jordan exemplifies this. He was actively engaged in music until the end of his life, and his ability to connect with young artists speaks volumes about his passion for music and legacy.
John Carter: As we reflect on his legacy, what do you think will be the lasting impact of his work in the music industry?
Dr. Sarah Williams: Quincy Jones’ impact will resonate for decades. His melding of genres, innovative production techniques, and commitment to social causes have inspired multiple generations of artists. The musical vocabulary he created continues to be foundational for contemporary producers and musicians. His legacy is not only in the songs he produced but in the spirit of collaboration and innovation he fostered.
John Carter: Thank you, Dr. Williams, for sharing your insights today. Quincy Jones’ music has undoubtedly shaped our lives, and through this conversation, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Dr. Sarah Williams: Thank you for having me, John. Let’s celebrate Quincy’s extraordinary life by continuing to honor his music and the ideals he stood for.
As we remember the profound influence of Quincy Jones, his music indeed lives on, creating ripples in the fabric of history that will echo for years to come.