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Last Updated: November 04, 2024, 16:09 IST
Quincy Jones, the legendary music visionary behind Michael Jackson’s Thriller and an illustrious catalog of film scores and collaborations with stars like Frank Sinatra, has passed away at 91. A.R. Rahman honored the icon with a heartfelt Instagram tribute.
Music icon Quincy Jones, celebrated for producing Michael Jackson’s monumental album “Thriller,” has died at the age of 91. Renowned composer A.R. Rahman took to Instagram to express his heartfelt condolences and reflect on the lasting impact of their friendship.
Quincy Jones, an extraordinary figure in the music industry, made his mark with achievements that ranged from producing the revolutionary album “Thriller” to creating award-winning film and television scores. Throughout his career, he collaborated with legendary artists including Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles. His passing, confirmed by his publicist Arnold Robinson, marks a significant loss in the entertainment realm.
In his tribute, A.R. Rahman conveyed deep sorrow for the loss of a mentor and close friend, sharing nostalgic moments that captured their bond. His poignant words, “Another shining star from Earth has dissolved into the infinite,” resonate as a fitting tribute to Jones’s remarkable influence on music and culture.
Jones passed away peacefully in his Bel Air home on Sunday night, surrounded by family. In a heartfelt statement, his loved ones expressed their grief yet celebrated the extraordinary life he led, emphasizing the uniqueness of his contributions to music and society.
Jones’s journey from the tough streets of Chicago to becoming a pioneer in the entertainment industry is truly inspiring. He was a trailblazer, serving as one of Hollywood’s first Black executives, and his musical catalog represents significant milestones in American music history. His extensive influence extended beyond music into all facets of the entertainment landscape.
Over his illustrious career, Jones interacted with a diverse array of notable personalities, from presidents and leaders to stars across the entertainment spectrum. He performed alongside the likes of Count Basie and Lionel Hampton, arranged for legends such as Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald, and created memorable film scores for projects like “Roots” and “In the Heat of the Night.” He also played a crucial role in organizing key events, including President Bill Clinton’s inaugural celebration and producing the charity anthem “We Are the World.”
Lionel Richie, who collaborated with Jones on “We Are the World,” aptly referred to him as “the master orchestrator,” highlighting his exceptional talent for collaboration and leadership in music production.
Jones’s career, which began in the era of 78 rpm records, reached new heights through his work with Michael Jackson. Their groundbreaking collaboration yielded classic albums, including “Off the Wall,” “Thriller,” and “Bad.” With an innovative blend of genres, Jones and Jackson produced timeless hits such as “Billie Jean” and “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.” On the iconic album “Thriller,” Jones’s creativity shone through, featuring a legendary guitar solo from Eddie Van Halen on “Beat It,” and creepy narration by Vincent Price in the title track.
The accolades Jones amassed throughout his career reflect both his talent and dedication. His autobiography, published in 2001, details an impressive array of honors, including 28 Grammy Awards, two honorary Oscars, and an Emmy for his contributions to “Roots.” He was also awarded France’s prestigious Legion d’Honneur and has been the subject of tributes such as those at the Kennedy Center. The impact of Jones’s life has been documented in various formats, including a 1990 documentary and a 2018 film created by his daughter Rashida Jones, while his memoir achieved bestseller status.
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