In Memory Of Quincy Jones
Hit-making American music producer Quincy Jones has died, aged 91.
Quincy Jones passed away Sunday night (3 November) local time at his home in Bel Air, Los Angeles, surrounded by his family.
“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the family said in a statement.
“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.
“He is truly one of a kind and we will miss him dearly; we take comfort and immense pride in knowing that the love and joy, that were the essence of his being, was shared with the world through all that he created. Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.”
A giant of the music industry, Quincy helped shape the sound of popular music over the past 50 years through his prolific work as a producer, songwriter, arranger and composer. His profound impact and influence can still be heard in the music released by today’s contemporary artists.
Born in 1933, Jones was introduced to music early by his mother, who was schizophrenic and institutionalised when Quincy was young. He pursued his interest through to his teenage years when he began working with a young Ray Charles and touring with jazz bands, rising to prominence in the 1950s. By the end of the decade, he started working with Frank Sinatra and the two became lifelong friends.
In 1961, he became the first African American vice president of Mercury Records and also began his foray into film music, scoring nearly 40 major motion picture compositions throughout his career.
Having made a conquering effort in jazz, film and theatre throughout the ‘60s and ‘70s, Quincy ventured into the world of pop in 1982, producing Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ album, the bestselling album of all time. He also produced Jackson’s ‘Bad’ and ‘Off The Wall’ albums.
Quincy’s career expanded into television during the ‘90s, producing iconic series ‘The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air’ starring Will Smith. His presence remained dominant into the new millennium with consistent artistic contributions that introduced his work to a new generation.
With an immense creative output spanning music, theatre, film and television, Quincy Jones leaves behind more than a legacy. His work and influence will be heard, seen and felt well into the future.
