Quincy Jones, one of the most influential figures in American music history, passed away at his home in Bel Air, Los Angeles, on November 3, 2024, at the age of 91. His death was confirmed by his publicist, Arnold Robinson, who did not disclose the cause. A celebrated producer, composer, and arranger, Jones’s legacy includes an unparalleled career that transformed popular music and culture.
Image by: Damon Winter/The New York Times
Born on March 14, 1933, in Chicago, Jones began his journey as a jazz trumpeter before making a name for himself as an arranger for big bands, including those led by Count Basie. His early work laid the groundwork for what would become a monumental career, marked by groundbreaking collaborations and innovations that bridged racial and musical divides.
Jones’s most notable achievement came in the 1980s when he produced Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” the best-selling album of all time. His ability to blend genres and appeal to diverse audiences redefined the pop music landscape. Beyond pop, Jones composed scores for films such as “The Color Purple,” and his influence extended into television and beyond.
Image by: IMDB
In recognition of his vast contributions, Jones won 28 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most awarded artists in history. He also received numerous honorary degrees and accolades, including the National Medal of Arts.
Mr. Jones at his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 in Los Angeles.Credit…Danny Moloshok/Invision, via Associated Press
To honor Quincy Jones’s remarkable legacy, we’ve compiled a list of ten essential videos that showcase his influence and contributions to music.
Top 10 Videos Featuring Quincy Jones
We Are the World (1985)
- A landmark charity single featuring an ensemble of top artists, produced by Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson. This video encapsulates the spirit of collaboration in music.
Video by: Youtube
Thriller (1983)
- The groundbreaking music video that changed the industry, combining cinematic storytelling with a pop song. Jones’s production helped make this album an iconic success.
Video by: Youtube
It’s My Party (1963)
- This video features Lesley Gore’s hit produced by Jones, showcasing his talent for pop production and his early impact on the music scene.
Video by: Youtube
The Secret Garden(1990)
- A smooth collaboration featuring Barry White and El DeBarge, highlighting Jones’s ability to blend different R&B styles seamlessly.
Video by: Youtube
Back on the Block (1989)
- The title track from his Grammy-winning album features a mix of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop, illustrating Jones’s cross-genre prowess.
Video by: Youtube
Soul Bossa Nova (1962)
- An instrumental classic that has been sampled in countless songs, including in the “Austin Powers” films. This video showcases Jones’s early genius in composition.
Video by: Youtube
In the Heat of the Night (1967)
- A powerful score from the film, which highlights Jones’s skill in film music composition and his ability to convey deep emotion through sound.
Video by: Youtube
Billie Jean (1983)
- Behind-the-scenes footage of the making of this iconic Michael Jackson video, showcasing the production genius of Quincy Jones.
Video by: Youtube
Dancing on the Ceiling (1986)
- An upbeat video by Lionel Richie that captures the energy of the 1980s and highlights Jones’s influence in pop and R&B.
Video by: Youtube
A Quincy Jones Celebration (2018)
- A tribute concert featuring performances of some of Quincy’s greatest hits, celebrating his enduring influence on music.
Video by: Youtube
Quincy Jones’s passing marks the end of an era in music. His ability to connect artists across genres and his relentless pursuit of excellence will continue to inspire future generations. As we remember his incredible contributions, these videos serve as a testament to his lasting legacy in the world of music.
Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/04/arts/music/quincy-jones-dead.html
https://www.loveblackgirls.org/post/the-color-purple-manhood-isn-t-toxic
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