Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani, Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Entertainment News
The Visionary Behind Thriller and We Are the World Leaves an Enduring Legacy
Quincy Jones, the iconic American musician and producer known for his work with Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and countless other legends, passed away peacefully at his Bel Air home on Sunday night. He was 91 years old.
In a statement from Jones’ family, publicist Arnold Robinson said, “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing. While this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the remarkable life he lived, knowing there will never be another like him.”
Jones was a towering figure in the music world, best remembered as the producer of Michael Jackson's Thriller, one of the best-selling albums of all time. His career, which spanned more than 75 years, earned him 28 Grammy Awards, and he was recognized by Time magazine as one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century.
A Career of Musical Innovation and Influence
Early in his career, Jones collaborated closely with Frank Sinatra, transforming the iconic Fly Me to the Moon from a waltz into a swinging jazz standard. His exceptional ability to reimagine music helped to shape the sounds of generations.
Jones' relationship with Michael Jackson began on the set of The Wiz, where he first encountered the 19-year-old artist. Their collaboration led to the production of Jackson’s Off the Wall album, which sold 20 million copies, followed by Thriller and Bad, both of which became cultural touchstones.
In 1985, Jones spearheaded the We Are the World project, a collaboration with 46 of America’s top artists, including Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, and Cyndi Lauper. Co-written by Jones, the song raised funds to aid those affected by the Ethiopian famine and topped charts in both the UK and the US, later becoming a highlight of the historic Live Aid concert.
Beyond Music: A Legacy in Film and Television
Jones’ talents extended far beyond music production. He composed scores for over 50 films and television shows, including the 1969 classic The Italian Job, which starred Michael Caine. Paying tribute, Caine wrote, “He was a titan in the musical worl.a wonderful and unique human being.”
Jones also produced The Color Purple, introducing then unknown stars Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg. His impact on television included co producing The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, bringing the beloved sitcom into millions of homes.
With a career that spanned every entertainment medium, Jones earned not only Grammys but also recognition from the Emmys, Tonys, and Oscars. In 1992, he was awarded a Grammy Legend Award, cementing his status as one of the most decorated figures in entertainment history.
A Personal Legacy
Jones was married three times and had seven children, including music producer Quincy Jones III and actress Rashida Jones, known for her role in the US version of The Office. His family remembered him as “truly one of a kind” and celebrated the “boundless love” he shared, adding, “Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.”
Tributes from Friends and Admirers
Playwright Jeremy O’Harris remarked on social media that Jones’ “contributions to American culture were limitless,” noting that he was the first Black person to be nominated for an Oscar for best score, among his many achievements. Rapper LL Cool J, who had a close personal connection to Jones, wrote, “Mentor. Role model. King. You gave me opportunities and shared wisdom. Music would not be music without you.” Singer Darius Rucker honored Jones as “one of the all-time greats,” while British DJ Tony Blackburn remembered him as a “musical genius.”
Jones’ legacy remains unparalleled. From jazz and pop to film scores and social activism, his influence on American culture and global music is immeasurable.
