(DailyChive.com) – Legendary music producer Quincy Jones passed away at his home in Bel Air, California, on Sunday night. He was 91 years old. Surrounded by his children, siblings, and close family, Jones left a legacy as one of the most influential figures in the music and entertainment industry. His publicist, Arnold Robinson, confirmed his passing and noted that the family requested privacy during this difficult time.
Jones’ family shared a heartfelt statement, expressing both their sadness and gratitude for his life. “With full but broken hearts, we share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing. Though his loss is profound, we celebrate the incredible life he lived. He was truly one of a kind, and we take pride in the love and joy he shared with the world through his music. His heart will continue to beat through his work,” they wrote.
Quincy Jones had a career like no other, stretching over seven decades. In the 1950s, he was one of the first major conductors to use the Fender bass, setting a new trend in popular music. He worked with some of the greatest artists of all time, including Ray Charles, Michael Jackson, and Frank Sinatra. Jones produced We Are the World, one of the best-selling singles ever, and helped create Michael Jackson’s Thriller, the top-selling album of all time. He also arranged the iconic version of Fly Me to the Moon for Sinatra.
Beyond music, Jones made history in 1961 when he became vice president of Mercury Records, making him the first Black executive at a major record label. In the 1980s, he co-produced The Color Purple, which earned 11 Oscar nominations, and he helped launch The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air in the ’90s. His company, Quincy Jones Entertainment, was a big player in the industry.
Throughout his career, Jones won an impressive number of awards, including 28 Grammy Awards, seven Oscar nominations, and four of entertainment’s highest honors: an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. He was also honored with the National Medal of Arts and recognized as a Kennedy Center Honoree.
A talented producer, humanitarian, and best-selling author, Quincy Jones was an artist who changed the world. His memory will live on through his music and his commitment to making a difference. He is survived by his seven children and three siblings.
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