Quincy Jones, one of the most influential figures in American music, has passed away at the age of 91. Known for his groundbreaking work with artists like Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Ray Charles, Jones’ career spanned over seven decades, amassing 28 Grammy Awards and a reputation as one of the most innovative forces in jazz, pop, and beyond.

His publicist, Arnold Robinson, confirmed Jones’ passing on Sunday night, sharing that he died peacefully at his Bel Air residence. “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the family said in a statement. “Although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life he lived and know there will never be another like him.”

A Legacy of Musical Brilliance
Born in 1933 in Chicago, Quincy Jones grew up in an environment rife with challenges. Raised in a poor neighborhood with gang activity, Jones developed a passion for music as an escape and a source of hope. He learned to play multiple instruments, and by his teenage years, his talent had already set him apart. By the 1950s, he was performing as a jazz musician and arranging pieces for legendary artists, including Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie. His work attracted attention for its boldness, innovation, and versatility.

Jones’ talents led him to Hollywood in the 1960s, where he became one of the first Black composers to score major films, including In Cold Blood and The Pawnbroker. He broke new ground with every project, redefining the possibilities of music arrangement and composition in film. Later in his career, he produced the soundtrack for The Color Purple, which introduced then-unknowns Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg to the big screen, adding another iconic chapter to his portfolio.

Transforming Pop with Michael Jackson
Quincy Jones is perhaps best known for his work with Michael Jackson, especially on the albums Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad. It was Jones who recognized Jackson’s potential to transcend pop music and become a global phenomenon. Together, they crafted Thriller, which remains the best-selling album of all time, with hit singles like “Beat It” and “Billie Jean” that reshaped the music landscape.

Jones’ unique approach to production—melding his jazz background with pop sensibilities—added a sophistication to Jackson’s music that was previously unseen in pop. He brought in talents like former Heatwave keyboardist Rod Temperton and guitar legend Eddie Van Halen, combining their strengths to make songs that appealed across genres and generations. His work with Jackson not only changed the trajectory of pop music but also elevated Jackson into one of the most iconic figures in entertainment history.

A Leader in Charity and Social Causes
Quincy Jones’ influence extended beyond music into social activism and philanthropy. In 1985, Jones spearheaded the recording of We Are the World, a charity single featuring 46 of America’s biggest artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, and Cyndi Lauper. The record, which raised money for Ethiopian famine relief, became a cultural phenomenon and demonstrated Jones’ commitment to using music as a force for good. We Are the World hit number one in multiple countries and inspired similar charity songs around the world.

Jones was also a regular presence at the Montreux Jazz Festival, co-producing the event in the 1990s and helping it achieve new levels of acclaim. His influence helped make Montreux a landmark for jazz enthusiasts and kept the spirit of jazz alive for new generations.

Revered by the Music Industry
Tributes have poured in from across the music industry and beyond, with stars reflecting on how Jones’ influence shaped their careers. Dr. Dre, legendary producer and rapper, described Jones as his inspiration, saying, “Quincy is the reason I decided to become a record producer.” Elton John praised Jones as a “titan of music” with an unmatched career, while Shonda Rhimes, television producer, hailed him as “a legend, a visionary, a pioneer.” Michael Caine, who starred in The Italian Job, one of the films Jones scored, called him “a wonderful and unique human being,” and Stevie Wonder, who collaborated with Jones over the years, expressed deep admiration for the late producer.

Jones’ creative genius went hand-in-hand with a commitment to nurturing young talent. He was a mentor to countless musicians, sharing his wisdom and elevating emerging artists. Jones’ influence touched not only the music industry but also the worlds of film, television, and philanthropy, making him a true Renaissance figure in American culture.

A Family and Musical Dynasty
Jones was married three times and had seven children, including actress Rashida Jones and music producer Quincy Jones III. His family released a statement following his passing, celebrating his “boundless love” and describing him as “truly one of a kind.” They also shared their gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and artists alike.

Rashida Jones, known for her role in The Office and Parks and Recreation, often spoke about her father’s wisdom and compassion. Quincy Jones III, who followed in his father’s footsteps as a music producer, praised his father for his endless creativity and resilience.

Jones’ family emphasized that his legacy would endure through his music, the artists he mentored, and the countless lives he impacted. In the words of his family, “through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.”

A Singular Legacy in Music and Beyond
As one of the first Black composers in Hollywood, Jones paved the way for future generations of musicians and composers of color. His legacy transcends race, genre, and even time, leaving a lasting impact on the world of music and the countless artists who continue to be inspired by him. Through his groundbreaking collaborations, his genre-defining albums, and his philanthropic contributions, Jones leaves a rich, multifaceted legacy that resonates with artists and fans worldwide.

Quincy Jones’ contributions to music are immortal. His spirit, creativity, and compassion will continue to inspire, and his influence will be felt in every note, beat, and harmony crafted by those who stand on his shoulders.

Quincy Jones, the iconic producer whose career defined generations of music, passed away peacefully on Sunday night, according to his family.