Tue Nov 05 16:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Music Legend Quincy Jones Dies at 91
**LOS ANGELES (AP)** – Music industry titan Quincy Jones, renowned for producing Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” album, composing award-winning film and television scores, and collaborating with a constellation of musical stars, has died at the age of 91. Jones passed away peacefully at his home in Bel Air, surrounded by his family, his publicist Arnold Robinson confirmed Sunday night.
Jones’ career spanned decades, witnessing the evolution of music from the era of 78 rpm records to the digital age. He rose from a troubled childhood in Chicago to become a groundbreaking figure in Hollywood, breaking racial barriers and achieving unprecedented success as one of the first Black executives to thrive in the entertainment industry.
His musical catalog is a testament to his artistry and enduring legacy. From producing the groundbreaking albums “Off the Wall,” “Thriller,” and “Bad” with Michael Jackson to composing the soundtracks for iconic films like “Roots” and “In the Heat of the Night,” Jones left an indelible mark on American music and culture.
Jones’ impact extended far beyond the music industry. He moved in circles with presidents, foreign leaders, movie stars, and philanthropists. He organized President Bill Clinton’s first inaugural celebration and led the all-star recording of “We Are the World” for famine relief in Africa.
His collaborations with iconic artists like Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, and countless others cemented his place as a visionary producer and arranger. His talent for bridging musical genres was evident in “Thriller,” which blended disco, funk, rock, pop, R&B, and even African chants, catapulting Michael Jackson to global superstardom.
Jones’ work extended beyond music, including producing the critically acclaimed film “The Color Purple,” which earned 11 Oscar nominations in 1986. He also created Quincy Jones Entertainment, a company that included the pop-culture magazine Vibe and Qwest Broadcasting, which was sold for $270 million in 1999.
Jones’ legacy is marked by a remarkable number of accolades, including 28 Grammy Awards, two honorary Academy Awards, and a Kennedy Center tribute. He was a dedicated philanthropist, advocating for causes such as fighting HIV and AIDS, educating children, and providing for the poor around the world.
Despite a complex personal life that included three marriages and seven children by five mothers, Jones remained dedicated to his craft and his philanthropic pursuits. He was a true innovator, a cultural icon, and a symbol of the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite people. His life and work will continue to inspire generations of artists and music lovers for years to come.
First Piper 