Quincy Jones, the celebrated musician, producer, and composer whose legacy transformed music, film, and television, has died at the age of 91. Jones passed away Sunday night at his Bel Air home, his family confirmed through a statement. “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” shared the family. “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.”

Jones’ influence over seven decades reshaped music history. Known fondly as “Q,” his musical genius transcended genres, with achievements spanning jazz, pop, R&B, and more. The first African American to compose a major motion picture score with The Pawnbroker in 1964, Jones broke barriers at every turn. He received an unmatched 80 Grammy nominations and took home 28 wins, with a career defined by landmark projects such as his work with Michael Jackson on Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad, each of which helped redefine pop music.

A Life Marked by Unprecedented Success

Born in Chicago in 1933, Quincy Delight Jones Jr. developed his passion for music early, taking up the trumpet as a child. By his teens, he was already immersed in the jazz scene, performing with legends like Lionel Hampton. His dedication led to studies at the Berklee College of Music and eventually a role as a trumpeter and arranger for many of jazz’s leading figures, including Ray Charles, whom he befriended at the age of 14.

Jones’ journey in the music industry was one of consistent reinvention. He rose to vice president at Mercury Records in 1964 — one of the highest-ranking positions held by an African American in a major label at the time. In addition to his Grammy awards, he earned seven Oscar nominations, pioneering roles in music production, and collaborations with many of the world’s most iconic musicians, including Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and Miles Davis.

Among his most celebrated works was his production of the charity single “We Are the World” in 1985, which raised millions for African famine relief. Jones’ commitment to creating music for positive change earned him not only accolades but also a place in the pantheon of artists dedicated to humanitarian work.

Tributes from Across the Industry

In the wake of Jones’ passing, tributes from all corners of the entertainment world have poured in, celebrating both his talent and his role as a mentor. Michael Caine, who shared Jones’ birthday and called him his “celestial twin,” wrote, “My celestial twin Quincy was a titan in the musical world. He was a wonderful and unique human being, lucky to have known him.”

My Celestial twin Quincy was a titan in the musical world. He was a wonderful and unique human being, lucky to have known him.

— Michael Caine (@themichaelcaine) November 4, 2024

Colman Domingo, who starred in 2023’s The Color Purple — a project Jones originally produced in 1985 — fondly recalled his encounter with the music legend: “I was so thrilled to meet Mr. American Music himself. I literally kneeled because he was a King. Thank you Mr. Quincy Jones for giving us all the sound.”

He asked, where are you from? Philly I replied, his eyes twinkled and he talked about the Uptown Theater. I was so thrilled to meet Mr. American Music himself. I literally kneeled because he was a King. Thank you Mr. Quincy Jones for giving us all the sound. pic.twitter.com/6RSZIK79sx

— Colman Domingo (@colmandomingo) November 4, 2024

Jones’ musical influence and mentorship extended to generations of artists. LL Cool J, who considered Jones a father figure, expressed his gratitude: “You were a father and example at a time when I truly needed a father and example. Mentor. Role model. King.”

A Cultural Force Beyond Music

Jones’ contributions were not limited to music alone. He was instrumental in shaping television and film as well, serving as the executive producer of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which launched the career of Will Smith. His influence on Hollywood also included his work as a composer for landmark films like In Cold Blood, In the Heat of the Night, and The Color Purple. His productions and scores not only enriched storytelling but also expanded the roles African Americans played within the industry.

South African producer Anand Singh, known for Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, reflected on Jones’ work supporting anti-apartheid causes and their decades-long friendship: “We have lost a giant, a friend, and an exceptional human being. I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Quincy Jones… His creative genius, commitment, and contribution to our industry is unparalleled.”

A Legacy of Innovation and Influence

Throughout his career, Jones pushed the boundaries of what was possible, consistently elevating the art and setting new standards. His groundbreaking album Back on the Block (1989), a fusion of jazz, hip-hop, and soul, won him six Grammys and bridged musical generations. He later established his own label, Qwest Records, which became home to an eclectic roster of talent and continued his tradition of fostering innovation.

Jones’ life, celebrated by family, friends, and fans worldwide, serves as a testament to a career without limits. His accomplishments will resonate through his immense body of work and the countless artists he inspired. As his family reflected, Jones’ spirit “will beat for eternity,” leaving a legacy that reshaped the cultural landscape and will continue to inspire for generations to come.