(ProsperNews.net) – Legendary music producer and arranger Quincy Jones passed away Sunday night at the age of 91, as confirmed by his publicist Arnold Robinson. Surrounded by his children and close family members, Jones spent his final moments at his home in Bel Air, California. In a heartfelt statement, his family expressed their deep sorrow but celebrated his remarkable life and contributions to music, film, and culture:
“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing. While this loss is profound, we are grateful for the legacy he leaves behind, knowing he shared his boundless love and creativity with the world. Quincy’s heart will beat on through the music and joy he brought to countless people.”
Jones’s career, which spanned over seven decades, broke barriers and set records. He worked with musical legends such as Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, and Michael Jackson, producing three of Jackson’s iconic albums, including Thriller, the best-selling album of all time. He was also the creative force behind the charity single “We Are the World,” which became the top-selling single in history. Jones played a pivotal role in bringing innovative sounds to mainstream music, including introducing the Fender bass into popular recording sessions in the 1950s.
Jones’s career extended beyond music. He became the first Black executive of a major record company as vice president of Mercury Records in 1961. His influence reached the film and television industries, notably co-producing The Color Purple with Steven Spielberg in 1985, which earned 11 Oscar nominations. He also launched The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, introducing the world to Will Smith as a television star.
Throughout his career, Jones received numerous honors, including 28 Grammy Awards out of 80 nominations, an Emmy, seven Oscar nominations, and a Tony Award, making him one of the few artists to achieve EGOT status (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony wins). Additionally, he was recognized with the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor in 2001, the National Medal of Arts in 2010, and was named a Jazz Master by the National Endowment for the Arts in 2008.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Jones was known for his humanitarian efforts, which began as early as the 1960s. He devoted much of his life to charitable work, aiming to create positive social impact through music and advocacy.
Quincy Jones leaves behind an unparalleled legacy, survived by his seven children and three siblings, who remember him as both a visionary and a loving family member. His contributions to music, film, and philanthropy will continue to resonate for generations to come.
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