Quincy Jones died on November 3, 2024 at his home in California.
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Following the announcement of the death of Quincy Jones, a multitude of friends, colleagues and admirers as well as the Montreux Jazz Festival spoke out to pay tribute to the music producer and composer.
TV host Oprah Winfrey said on Instagram that her life was “changed forever and for the better” after meeting Quincy Jones. It helped land him a role in the 1985 film adaptation of “The Color Purple,” a role that earned him an Academy Award nomination.
“I have never met, and have never since known anyone whose heart overflowed with so much love. He walked around with his heart wide open and treated every person like they were the most important he had ever met. He was light, without shadows. He embodied love in full expression, and he was the first person I loved unconditionally,” she wrote.
Whoopi Goldberg, who also starred in “The Color Purple,” also posted a message on Instagram: “I was lucky to have him in my life all these years. My heart breaks for his friends and extended family, who loved and adored him… My condolences.”
Former United States President Barack Obama, who presented Quincy Jones with the National Medal of Arts in 2010, said: “For decades, Quincy Jones personified music. From producing “Thriller” to composing the music for “The Color Purple,” to working with Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles, it seemed like every great record – and every great film – had Quincy’s name on it. »
He added: “His music touched listeners of all backgrounds and ages. Building a career that took him from the streets of Chicago to the heights of Hollywood, Quincy paved the way for generations of black executives to make their mark on the entertainment industry.”
Sir Elton John remembers Quincy Jones as someone who had a more “incredible” musical career than anyone else. He shared a photo of them at the Elton John AIDS Foundation’s Oscar viewing party, calling him a “loyal supporter of this important fundraiser.”
Rapper Ice T called Quincy Jones a “genius,” while Grammy winner Lenny Kravitz claimed to be “speechless” and added, “What a life. What an expression of authenticity. What a teacher. I am honored to have received the gift of your openness and friendship.”
Former Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland has thanked Quincy Jones for being “a wonderful teacher” and creating the soundtrack to “some of the most extraordinary moments” of her life.
Quincy Jones also helped launch and produce the popular American series “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” starring Will Smith. The latter said: “Quincy Jones is the true definition of a mentor, father and friend. He directed me towards the most beautiful parts of myself. He defended me. He encouraged me. He inspired me. He reframed me when necessary. He lent me his wings until mine were strong enough to fly.”
Chic co-founder Nile Rodgers shared a video calling Quincy Jones “the greatest of all time.” Peter Hook, the bassist and co-founder of Joy Division and New Order, posted on social media: “So sad to hear of the death of Quincy Jones. When he signed us to his label, he made us feel right at home – inviting us to dinner at his house whenever we were in town. He made us famous in America. He was so humble and kind that you immediately fell under his charm.”
He added: “And still to this day I receive a kind message from him every year with Christmas and birthday cards! A musical genius and a wonderful, lovely man.”
