Quincy Jones has passed away at the age of 91, his family confirmed on Monday.
The legendary musician, who helped shape music for decades, passed away peacefully at his home in Bel Air, California, on Sunday, November 3. According to his publicist Arnold Robinson’s statement, Quincy Jones was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing. His family also released a statement confirming the sad news.
“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the Jones family said via AP. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”
Quincy Jones has worked with some of the biggest names in music past and present including, arguably the greatest musician of all time, Michael Jackson. He also worked with the likes of Will Smith and Frank Sinatra. Jones was best known for being a prolific record producer, composer, and artist, but his influence in entertainment transcends more than just music as he was well-known as a film producer, arranger, conductor, instrumentalist, and TV producer.
Quincy Jones is the producer behind Michael Jackson’s landmark album Thriller, which is still the best-selling album of all time. He also worked with Jackson on the albums Bad and Off the Wall.
Celebrities, including rappers and actors who have worked with Jones over the decades, have been reacting to his passing. “Quincy Jones is the true definition of a Mentor, a Father and a Friend,” Will Smith wrote. “He pointed me toward the greatest parts of myself. He defended me. He nurtured me. He encouraged me. He inspired me. He checked me when he needed to. He let me use his wings until mine were strong enough to fly.”
Ice-T wrote, “I woke up today to the Terrible news that we lost Quincy Jones.. Genius is a discription loosely used but Rarely deserved. Point blank, Quincy was the MAN. I won my 1st Grammy with Quincy and I live with his Wisdom daily. My condolences go out to his family who I had the honor of meeting. This one Hit me. God bless you KING.”
LL Cool J wrote, “You were a father and example at a time when I truly needed a father and example. Mentor. Role model. King. You gave me opportunities and shared wisdom. Music would not be music without you. My condolences to the entire family. I love you. Rest in the sweetest music eternally.”
