Quincy Jones, Music Mogul, Dies at 91
Jones was surrounded by his children, siblings, and close family at his home in Bel Air, California. No further details about his death will be released at this moment, as the family requests privacy “in this time of great mourning,” Robinson said.
The following statement was provided from the Jones family:
“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing. 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, the essence of his being, was shared with the world through all that he created. Through his music and boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.”
A Legacy Written in Melodies
Jones, an unparalleled figure in the music industry, was the first popular conductor-arranger to record with a Fender bass in the mid-1950s. His impact on the industry is profoundly felt, having collaborated with legendary artists such as Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Michael Jackson. These alliances not only shaped his career but also the soundscape of generations. He produced and conducted “We Are The World,” the best-selling single of all time, along with three of Jackson’s albums, including “Thriller,” the best-selling album in history. His genius transcended borders, crafting enduring arrangements like “Fly Me To The Moon,” which became synonymous with the jazz standard.
A Trailblazer in the Entertainment Industry
In 1961, Jones made history as the vice president of Mercury Records, pioneering the way as the first Black executive at a major record company, thus embracing a role that would influence future generations. His foray into film bore remarkable results; as co-producer of “The Color Purple,” he earned 11 Oscar nominations. He also played a significant role in launching the beloved television series “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air” in 1991, further solidifying his status as a multifaceted entertainment powerhouse.
Jones expanded his creative footprint by forming Quincy Jones Entertainment alongside Time Warner, Inc., which became a critical component of his expansive career. His breadth of influence has spanned decades and genres—melding together a rich tapestry of music, film, and cultural legacy.
Throughout his life, Jones amassed myriad accolades, including an Emmy Award, seven Oscar nominations, and an impressive 28 Grammy Awards among 80 nominations. His unyielding commitment to music and philanthropy shaped his identity. Honored with the Academy’s Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, he embodied the spirit of giving, utilizing his platform for global betterment.
An Artist’s Journey Beyond Music
In 2016, Jones added a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical to his extraordinary list of achievements, joining the elite circle of artists who have garnered an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. Beyond awards, his life was enriched by a passion for social advocacy rooted in the 1960s. He is survived by seven children and three siblings, reflecting a life woven together with love and creativity.
It’s a contemplative reflection on the lives we touch and the legacies we leave behind. Quincy Jones, despite his departure, leaves an indelible mark on music, film, and culture—an echo that will resonate long after the last note has faded. As the music plays on, so does the heart that brought it to life.
