Quincy Jones, a titan of American entertainment whose influence spanned decades and genres, has died at the age of 91.
The iconic producer and musician passed away on Sunday night at his home in Bel Air, Los Angeles, surrounded by family, as confirmed by his publicist, Arnold Robinson.
In a heartfelt statement, 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.”
Jones was renowned for his versatility and innovation, producing some of the most iconic albums in music history, including Michael Jackson’s Off the Wall Thriller, and Bad, which catapulted Jackson to superstardom. Throughout his remarkable career, Jones collaborated with legends such as Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and Donna Summer, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
Born in Chicago in 1933, Jones’ musical journey began early, inspired by his mother’s singing and a neighbor’s piano. His prodigious talent led him to learn various instruments and work alongside jazz greats like Ray Charles and Miles Davis. He made history as the first African American to be nominated for Best Original Song at the Oscars in 1968 and earned a staggering 80 Grammy nominations, winning 28.
In addition to his prolific music career, Jones was a successful film and television producer. His production company launched hit shows such as The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which launched the career of Will Smith. His passion for music and dedication to mentoring emerging artists, including Grammy-winning musician Jacob Collier, showcased his enduring legacy.
Jones faced numerous challenges throughout his life, narrowly escaping the infamous Manson family in 1969 and surviving a brain aneurysm in 1974. He was married three times and is survived by his seven children, each of whom carries a piece of his remarkable legacy.
