On November 3rd, 2024, world-renowned producer and musician Quincy Jones passed away peacefully in his home in Los Angeles, California. The 91-year-old left a huge legacy behind him, forever leaving a mark on the music industry.
Jones was an American producer, trumpeter, arranger, and composer. His career spanned over seven decades, inspiring countless musicians around the world. During the 1950s, he began his career in jazz, becoming Clark Terry’s first student and later touring with several jazz orchestras. Later, in the 1960s, he became the vice president of Mercury Records, being the first African American to take up this position.
Jones began producing music for other artists, releasing many successful albums. In addition to the many jazz records he produced and arranged throughout the 60’s, he also worked with rising pop artists. In the 70’s, he began working with Michael Jackson, producing Off the Wall, Bad, and the most successful album of all time, Thriller.
Jones has influenced many people, whether it’s musicians, actors, or just people who like music. He greatly impacted several artists, including Michael Jackson, Will Smith, Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughan, Queen Latifah, and more. Jones worked with these people, boosting their careers as musicians or actors.
“Quincy was a singular human being with an extraordinary presence. Being around him felt special—he had a warm, welcoming energy that made everyone feel at ease. Despite his legendary status, he remained incredibly curious and passionate about growth, even in his later years,” said jazz pianist Justin Kauflin, who connected with Jones through his mentor Clark Terry. “As a producer, he was masterful, with instincts honed over a lifetime of experience. He knew what worked and didn’t waste time on anything subpar. He was demanding but always aimed to bring out the best in those around him.”
Additionally, Jones has earned a multitude of awards and recognitions. These include the Grammy Legend Award, which only 15 artists have received, the Golden Plate Award, presented by Ray Charles, a total of 28 Grammys, and many more.
Composing film scores for nearly 40 movies and TV shows, Jones is certainly a prominent figure in the cinematic world. He’s worked with other famous filmmakers and composers such as John Williams and Steven Spielberg.
Other than just composing for films, Jones has also appeared in movies and television shows. He stars as himself in the documentary Quincy, and even makes a cameo as the cab driver in Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
Unfortunately, Jones was already met with health issues as early as 1974, when he developed a brain aneurysm. He underwent two brain surgeries, and was not able to play trumpet again after the second one.
“I still can’t believe I had the chance to spend time with Q,” said Kauflin. “Quincy followed in Clark’s footsteps, dedicating himself to mentoring young musicians like me and Jacob Collier. He often said, “You’ll never be any more or less of a musician than who you are as a human being.” That idea—that your character is fully reflected in your music—sticks with me, especially in my role as a teacher. The warmth and love I felt from him during our time together are things I’ll cherish forever.”
Quincy Jones left behind a grand legacy. He touched the lives of musicians and actors, both young and old, and lived a very full and successful life.
