Written by Sunny
Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Quincy Delight Jones Jr., born on March 14, 1933, is a name that resonates with music lovers worldwide. His contributions to the music industry are unparalleled, and his influence is evident in various genres, from jazz to pop. Here are 17 fascinating facts about this legendary music producer.
Early Life and Introduction to Music
Quincy Jones was born in Chicago, Illinois, and later moved to Seattle, Washington, where he developed his skills as a trumpeter and arranger. His introduction to music was through his mother and a next-door neighbor, Lucy Jackson, who played stride piano.
A Career Spanning Seven Decades
Jones’s career spans over 70 years, during which he has received 80 Grammy Award nominations, won 28 Grammys, and was honored with a Grammy Legend Award in 1992.
First African American to be Nominated for an Academy Award
In 1968, Jones became the first African American to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “The Eyes of Love” from the film Banning.
Worked with Michael Jackson
Jones produced three of the most successful albums by pop star Michael Jackson: Off the Wall (1979), Thriller (1982), and Bad (1987).
Produced “We Are the World”
In 1985, Jones produced and conducted the charity song “We Are the World,” which raised funds for victims of famine in Ethiopia.
First African American to be the Musical Director of the Academy Awards
In 1971, Jones became the first African American to be the musical director and conductor of the Academy Awards.
Recipient of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award
In 1995, Jones was the first African American to receive the Academy’s Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
In 2013, Jones was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as the winner, alongside Lou Adler, of the Ahmet Ertegun Award.
Worked with Frank Sinatra
Jones first worked with Frank Sinatra in 1958 and later produced successful albums for him9.
Founded Qwest Productions
In 1975, Jones founded Qwest Productions, where he arranged and produced successful albums for various artists.
Produced the Soundtrack for “The Wiz”
In 1978, Jones produced the soundtrack for “The Wiz,” the musical adaptation of The Wizard of Oz.
Produced “The Color Purple”
Jones made his debut as a film producer with 1985’s “The Color Purple,” which received 11 Oscar nominations.
Founded Quincy Jones Entertainment
In 1990, Quincy Jones Productions joined with Time Warner to create Quincy Jones Entertainment.
Produced “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”
Jones produced the successful TV show “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” which launched the career of Will Smith.
Collaborated with Clark Terry
In 2014, Jones appeared in “Keep on Keepin’ On,” a documentary about his friend, jazz trumpeter and flugelhorn player Clark Terry.
Co-Founded Qwest TV
In 2017, Jones and French producer Reza Ackbaraly started Qwest TV, the world’s first subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) service for jazz and eclectic music from around the world.
Co-Founded Playground Sessions
In 2010, Jones, along with brand strategist Chris Vance, co-founded Playground Sessions, a developer of subscription software that teaches people to play the piano using interactive videos.
Conclusion
Quincy Jones’s life and career are a testament to his immense talent, hard work, and dedication. His influence on the music industry is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and producers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Quincy Jones?
Quincy Jones is an American record producer, songwriter, composer, arranger, and film and television producer. His career spans over 70 years, and he has made significant contributions to various genres of music.
What are some of Quincy Jones’s notable works?
Jones has produced three of the most successful albums by pop star Michael Jackson: Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad. He also produced the charity song “We Are the World,” which raised funds for victims of famine in Ethiopia.
What awards has Quincy Jones received?
Jones has received 80 Grammy Award nominations, won 28 Grammys, and was honored with a Grammy Legend Award in 1992. He was also the first African American to receive the Academy’s Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
What is Qwest TV?
Qwest TV is the world’s first subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) service for jazz and eclectic music from around the world. It was co-founded by Quincy Jones and French producer Reza Ackbaraly in 2017.
What is Playground Sessions?
Playground Sessions is a developer of subscription software that teaches people to play the piano using interactive videos. It was co-founded by Quincy Jones and brand strategist Chris Vance in 2010.
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