Quincy Jones a ground-breaking music producer and composer left us today at ninety-one. His life-story shows how one person can change music forever
The moon keeps one of his greatest achievements: Buzz Aldrin played Jones-produced “Fly Me to the Moon“ (recorded by Frank Sinatra) right before stepping onto lunar surface in 69; making it the first song played on earths natural satellite. His tv-themes became part of American culture - he wrote music for many well-known shows including:
- “Sanford and Son“
- “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air“
- “Ironsides“
In mid-50s Jones studied in Paris with famous teacher Nadia Boulanger who shaped his unique music-style. Frank Sinatra didnt just give him the nickname “Q“ but also left his family crest ring to Jones after death
Back in 74 Jones survived a brain surgery with just 1% chance of success and even went to his own memorial - where Ray Charles Marvin Gaye and other stars performed. Later in 86 he spent time on Marlon Brandos private Tahiti island recovering from mental-health issues
His work with Michael Jackson brought interesting stories (he called Jackson “Smelly“ because the singer didnt use curse words) but also led to legal issues: Jones won $9.42 million lawsuit against Jacksons estate in 17. The producerʼs personal life connected to rap history too - his daughter Kadida was engaged to Tupac Shakur when the rapper died in 96