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The 15th annual Governor’s Awards, a prestigious occasion organized by The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, unfolded with a bittersweet atmosphere this year. The event, renowned for honoring exceptional contributions to the film industry, took place on November 17 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Ovation Hollywood, just two weeks after the passing of one of its celebrated honorees, Quincy Jones, who died on November 3.
Accepting the award on behalf of her late father was his daughter, actress Rashida Jones. In her emotional tribute, she expressed the family’s desire to honor her father’s remarkable legacy, stating, “His music has literally defined an entire century of culture – jazz, disco, film, pop, hip-hop, but the real thread in his music is that his music is all infused with his love.”
This year’s honorees included casting director Juliet Taylor; filmmaker and humanitarian Richard Curtis, who received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award; and producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, recognized for their work on the James Bond franchise through the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award. The Academy board selected the honorees and announced them in June.
Qunicy Jones was specifically honored for his “artistic genius, relentless creativity and trailblazing legacy in film music.” Richard Curtis was acknowledged for his transformative charitable contributions, while Juliet Taylor was celebrated for her extensive influence in film casting. Wilson and Broccoli were recognized for their consistent production of high-quality films.
For the sixth consecutive year, Jennifer Fox produced the event while Rickey Minor served as the music director, setting the stage for an evening filled with memorable moments.
Below are some key highlights from the 2024 Governor’s Awards.
Jennifer Hudson Takes Us to Church
Jennifer Hudson offered an inspiring performance, leading a 12-member gospel choir in a stirring rendition of “Maybe God Is Tryin’ to Tell You Something” from the 1985 film The Color Purple, a film that garnered Jones three of his seven Oscar nominations. This tribute also subtly acknowledged the profound impact Jones had on Hudson’s career and her ongoing success.
Interestingly, Hudson had performed another song produced by Jones, “You Don’t Own Me” by Lesley Gore, during a concert honoring him in July 2023.
Jamie Foxx Told How Jones Helped Him Play Ray Charles
Jamie Foxx shared a personal anecdote about his preparation for portraying Ray Charles in the 2004 film Ray. He reached out to Jones for guidance, given their long-standing friendship. Jones welcomed him into his home and helped Foxx locate a cassette of a historic Charles performance, which proved invaluable as Foxx practiced for his role. Foxx’s portrayal earned him an Oscar.
A Daughter’s Tribute
Rashida Jones paid heartfelt homage to her father, reflecting on his remarkable ability to forge connections with people from all walks of life. “He had this natural gift with people… He knew how to stay present, stay curious and stay loving,” she remarked. She encouraged attendees to delve into the vast array of her father’s music beyond his notable film scores and collaborations, emphasizing the love embedded in his work.
“There’s an entire universe waiting in his seven decades of music… He loved life,” she reiterated, mentioning his famous adage, “Live every day like it’s your last and one day you’ll be right.”
In Jones’ Own Words
Rashida revealed that her father had been preparing a speech for the event before his passing, and she shared his sentiments. He reflected on the significant changes in the film industry over the years, expressing pride in being part of that evolution and thankful for the opportunity to compose over 35 film scores.
Proof of Q’s Enduring Influence
The event itself provided ample evidence of Jones’ lasting influence, with popular songs like Janet Jackson’s “When I Think of You” and Whitney Houston’s “How Will I Know” playing in the background. Although Jones was not directly involved in their production, artists like Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, and Narada Michael Walden acknowledge the impact his innovative style had on contemporary music.
Richard Curtis Invokes a Hit by Queen & David Bowie
During his remarks, Richard Curtis took a moment to comment on the national mood following the recent U.S. presidential election. He humorously referenced Queen and David Bowie’s hit “Under Pressure,” resonating with the feelings of uncertainty prevalent in the audience.
Prospering in the Family Business
Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli were honored with the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, continuing the legacy established by their father, Albert R. “Cubby” Broccoli. Under their stewardship, the James Bond franchise has remained relevant, securing Oscars for three original songs during their tenure, including those by Adele, Sam Smith, and Billie Eilish, culminating in a rich cinematic heritage.
Tweaking the Governor’s Awards
Amidst light-hearted banter, Richard Curtis and his frequent collaborator Hugh Grant humorously speculated on the significance of the Governor’s Awards, comparing it to the Oscars. Grant jested, “It’s kind of an Oscar. It’s a better-than-nothing Oscar,” to which Curtis added, “It’s the Oscar for people who never made a film good enough to win an Oscar.”
Source
www.billboard.com