Quincy Jones, Music Titan Who Worked with Michael Jackson and Frank Sinatra, Dies at 91

Quincy Jones, a legendary figure in the music industry, passed away on Sunday night at the age of 91. Known for his vast and influential career, Jones left an indelible mark on American music and beyond. He died at his home in the Bel Air section of Los Angeles, surrounded by his family.

Jones’ career was a testament to his versatility and talent. He produced Michael Jackson‘s historic album “Thriller,” one of the best-selling albums of all time, and collaborated with other iconic artists such as Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Ella Fitzgerald. His work extended to film and television, where he composed prize-winning scores for projects like “Roots” and “In the Heat of the Night“.

Quincy Jones was also a pivotal figure in charitable efforts, notably organizing the all-star recording of “We Are the World” in 1985, a charity record for famine relief in Africa. This project, co-written by Lionel Richie, showcased Jones’ ability to bring together some of the biggest names in music for a common cause.

Jones’ journey to the top was remarkable, rising from a tough childhood on the South Side of Chicago to becoming one of the first Black executives to thrive in Hollywood. He kept company with presidents, foreign leaders, movie stars, and other influential figures, reflecting his broad impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.

In a statement, Jones’ family expressed their grief and celebration of his life, saying, “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing. 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”).