The music world mourns the passing of one of its most celebrated icons. On Sunday, Quincy Jones, aged 91, passed away at his Bel Air residence. Over an extraordinary seven-decade career, Jones made a lasting mark on contemporary American music as a songwriter, producer, and composer.
Since the news broke, tributes have been flowing from fans and admirers, honoring the musical genius whose collaborations with stars like Michael Jackson and Frank Sinatra left an indelible legacy. Even the boxing community joined in, paying heartfelt respects to the legendary Quincy Jones.
Remembering Quincy Jones
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“R.I.P. Quincy Jones. Great musical mind,” said Rick Glaser. In a touching tribute, promoter Lou DiBella reposted a year-old tweet from Quincy Jones. The producer of the worldwide hit ‘We Are The World’ was remembering old friend, singer Harry Belafonte, who passed away on April 25, 2023.
The post featured a poignant image capturing Jones with fellow icons Sammy Davis Jr., Oscar-winning actor Sidney Poitier standing, and Harry Belafonte. Lou DiBella wrote, “Together again. 🙏❤️,” honoring the thought of Jones and Belafonte reuniting again.
The WBC dedicated a full page to Jones, celebrating his achievements and highlighting his support of the civil rights movement. “The entire WBC family sends Quincy’s family and friends our deepest condolences, as Quincy now joins Heaven’s Angelic Choir. Rest in Peace,” read the message from WBC.
Sharing a clip from the music video of one of Jones’ hit numbers, ‘Tomorrow (A Better You, Better Me),’ YouTuber, boxing observer, Showbiz The Adult said, “RIP Quincy Jones 🕊️🕊️🕊️Damn man 😢 #rip #quincyjones.”
A life through notes
Born on March 14, 1933, Quincy Delight Jones Jr. found his first musical inspiration from his mother. He began his career in 1953 as a jazz musician. Over the years, he worked with a number of legends, such as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, and Johnny Carson.
A trailblazer, Jones became one of the first African-American music executives who scaled the heights of the music industry. Outside the studios, he embraced the ongoing civil rights movement, expressing solidarity with Reverend Martin Luther King Jr.
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As far as music goes, the 28 Grammy Award winner will be always remembered for his work with Michael Jackson. Together, the team came with some of the most memorable chartbusters. Their album ‘Thriller’ became one of the highest-selling productions of all time. By the 1990s, Jones had expanded his talents to the small screen and composed music for some of the well-known shows, such as ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.’.
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Quincy Jones had worked with legend Ray Charles as well. The act for which he gained international recognition remains ‘We Are The World’. Deeply affected by the famine in Ethiopia, Jones joined singer Lionel Ritchie, who co-wrote the song along with Michael Jackson and brought together a band of singers and musicians. Their creation broke records, becoming the eighth best-selling single of all time.
Quincy Jones has left behind a legacy that inspired millions and transformed the musical landscape. His contributions will continue to echo, reminding the world of his musical genius and compassion. You are invited to share your tributes to the remarkable Quincy Jones in the comments sections below.