The music world mourns the passing of Quincy Jones, a monumental figure who transformed the industry over his 91 years. The esteemed composer, producer, and arranger died peacefully on Sunday night at his Bel Air, California home, surrounded by family, as reported by CNN.
In a heartfelt statement, Jones's family conveyed their profound grief while celebrating his life filled with unparalleled artistic contributions and love. "There will never be another like him. His heart will beat eternally through his music and boundless love," his family expressed.
A Master of Musical Diversity
Jones was a profound advocate for the evolution of music, holding a deep appreciation for Cuban music, which he once acclaimed, alongside Brazilian sounds, as some of the best in the world. "The music of Brazil and Cuba are the best," stated the legendary trumpeter and producer, emphasizing the influence of African roots. "I've traveled to Brazil almost every year for 54 years. My goodness! The music created there, and in Cuba, is the best. Lyrical and African rhythms. With the same 12 notes for 500 years," Jones remarked in a 2011 interview with the Spanish newspaper El País.
Nurturing Young Talent: A Cuban Connection
In 2006, at 80 and with 27 Grammy Awards to his name, Jones embarked on managing young musicians, inspired by a performance from the innovative Cuban pianist Alfredo Rodríguez Jr. This idea took root at the Montreaux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, where he witnessed Rodríguez's talent firsthand. The pianist, without a manager or recording contract, caught Jones's attention, leading to a life-changing opportunity. In 2009, Rodríguez crossed into the United States from Mexico with nothing but a suitcase full of compositions and the clothes on his back.
Adam Fell, vice president of Quincy Jones Productions, explained to the media that Jones brought Rodríguez to Los Angeles, providing housing for two years as the young musician began touring and working on an album. Jones also encouraged him to delve deeply into his Latin roots during his 2012 debut. Reflecting on those days, Rodríguez shared, "The best advice Quincy Jones gave me was to be myself."
Breaking Barriers and Making History
Quincy Jones was a trailblazer in the music world, known not only for his musical talents but also for his roles as a director, record executive, and civil rights advocate. Born in Chicago in 1933, Jones overcame a challenging upbringing to develop a profound love for music early on. His career began to blossom in Seattle, where he met the young Ray Charles, forging a lifelong friendship.
Under the mentorship of trumpeter Clark Terry and guidance from icons like Lionel Hampton, Jones carved his path in jazz, first as a performer and then as a brilliant arranger. His skills led to collaborations with legendary figures such as Count Basie, Sarah Vaughan, and Duke Ellington. Yet, his influence transcended genres, making him a versatile and visionary musician without boundaries.
Thriller's Triumph and Social Impact
One of Jones's most notable achievements came in 1982 with the production of Michael Jackson's iconic album Thriller, a groundbreaking work that shattered sales records and redefined global pop music. In 1985, Jones gathered numerous stars for the benefit project We Are the World, aimed at raising funds to fight famine in Africa. This charitable anthem became a symbol of unity and underscored Jones's commitment to social causes.
Exploring New Ventures and Cultural Influence
Jones's relentless pursuit of innovation led him to television, where he produced the hit series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, launching Will Smith into stardom. In publishing, he founded Vibe magazine in 1993, expanding his impact on American music and culture.
Enduring Creativity and Legacy
Until his final years, Jones remained creatively active. In 2014, he produced the documentary Keep on Keepin' On, honoring his mentor Clark Terry. In his 2022 book, 12 Notes on Life and Creativity, he reflected on the importance of creativity in his life, describing it as "one of the most beautiful gifts we possess, with the power to transform pain into more than just a singular feeling."
Quincy Jones leaves behind a colossal legacy marked by art, social commitment, and an influence that will inspire future generations. His music continues to resonate, and his innovative spirit remains an inspiration for those who dream of breaking barriers and using art as a vehicle for change.
Quincy Jones's Candid Remarks on Donald Trump
In February 2018, the octogenarian musician stirred controversy with an interview published by Vulture, where he claimed to have once dated Ivanka Trump, daughter of U.S. President Donald Trump. "She had the most beautiful legs I've ever seen," he remarked, adding, "Wrong father, though."
Jones was sharply critical of the president, accusing him of exacerbating racial tensions in the United States. He referred to Trump as a "son of a..." and described his followers as "uneducated rednecks." "Trump is merely telling them what they want to hear. I used to hang out with him. He's a mentally limited, megalomaniac, narcissist. I can't stand him," Jones commented.