Quincy Jones: The Wizard of the Show Business

Jones made remarkable contributions to music, television, film, and the overall culture for seven decades, making him a pioneer.

Jones was a trumpeter at heart but started honing his craft as an arranger, composer, and conductor and embarked on a musical journey that allowed him to work with several greats, including Lesley Gore, Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, Frank Sinatra, Dizzy Gillespie, Count Basie, Tamia, and the “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson. After receiving critical acclaim for working with several artists and his versatility as a record producer, Jones transcended to film, becoming the first African American to compose a movie, The Pawnbroker, in 1964. He arranged over 30 films throughout his career, including The Wiz and The Color Purple.

However, Jones is mainly known for producing Michael Jackson's three albums, Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad, which paved the way for Jackson's career. Thriller became the best-selling album ever, winning eight Grammys in 1984. Jones also utilized his talents as a humanitarian by arranging and producing the Grammy award-winning inspirational record, "We Are The World," written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, to raise awareness about famine relief in Africa in 1985. The song features some of the biggest names in music at that time and generated millions while becoming a catalyst for change, especially in third-world countries.

As the charismatic and tenacious producer stepped into the 1990s and 2000s, Jones ventured into other avenues, including launching VIBE Magazine and becoming an executive producer of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air so black and brown people could have a voice in the media. The television show was an excellent way for Oscar and Grammy-winning actor and rapper Will Smith to present his transformative phase after nearly going bankrupt for mismanaging his money as a rapper.

He also helped launch Grammy-nominated singer Tamia in the music industry with her single, "You Put a Move on My Heart," and landed her an opportunity to collaborate with Brandy, Gladys Knights, and Chaka Khan on the song "Missing You" for the Set It Off soundtrack. Grammy award-winning rapper and actor Ludacris showed his homage to Quincy Jones on the record "Soul Bossa Nostra." His verse lets people know that Jones was indeed a man with a master plan, an excellent force in people's lives; he couldn't be cloned or duplicated, and a protective male influence that guides and supports others so they can achieve their goals. Jones became a helping hand for entertainers who needed a leg-up in the business by sharing his knowledge and experiences in the industry

The father of seven's presence in the entertainment industry gives artists the power to heal, inspire, inform, and cultivate people's lives through the arts. Sadly, Jones passed away on November 3, 2024, at the age of 91, after enduring a battle with pancreatic cancer. One of his fondest quotes about living life is, "Love, Laugh, Live, and Give; that's what it's all about," which centers on the necessities of a wholesome and fulfilling life. Jones fulfilled his mission, and artists will recognize how he touched their lives each time they hear a note or song from him on the radio or other mediums. His work united people from all nations and impacted generations through philanthropic work, education, artistry, mentorship, musical composition, and commitment to the arts. Therefore, Quincy Jones will forever be on "Q" with his approachable and sophisticated nature.