Few artists have legacies as monumental as Quincy Jones, whose name is synonymous with the music industry. The legendary producer and musician passed away at the age of 91 in his Los Angeles home, surrounded by family. He was set to receive an honorary Academy Award later this month, a testament to his incredible impact on music and culture.
With a staggering 28 Grammy Awards to his name, Jones worked with a diverse array of artists, including legends like Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, and Michael Jackson. To celebrate his rich legacy, let’s explore ten iconic songs that showcase the brilliance of Quincy Jones throughout his illustrious career.
1. 1963: Ella Fitzgerald and Count Basie’s Orchestra – “Honeysuckle Rose”
Kickstart your Quincy Jones listening journey with “Honeysuckle Rose,” a standout track from Fitzgerald’s collaboration with Count Basie. This arrangement exemplifies Jones’ jazz brilliance, moving from simple vocals and bass to a grand, vibrant sound, featuring Fitzgerald’s delightful scat solo.
2. 1963: Lesley Gore – “It’s My Party”
Lesley Gore’s “It’s My Party” captures teenage heartbreak with its addictive melodies and lively horn section. Produced by Jones, this song juxtaposes its cheerful sound with a narrative of emotional turmoil, making it a timeless classic in pop music history.
3. 1964: Frank Sinatra – “Fly Me to the Moon”
Jones’ ability to seamlessly master various musical forms is evident in Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon.” This iconic track, arranged by Jones for Sinatra’s 1964 album It Might as Well Be Swing, showcases a punchy rhythm and wistful flute, solidifying its status in the American songbook.
4. 1967: Ray Charles – “In the Heat of the Night”
Jones scored the 1967 film In the Heat of the Night, featuring the powerful title track performed by Ray Charles. This soul-infused song, complete with a passionate tenor sax solo, highlights Jones’ mastery in blending music with cinematic storytelling.
5. 1979: Michael Jackson – “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough”
Perhaps Jones’ most famous partnership was with Michael Jackson. Their collaboration began while working on the film The Wiz, leading to hits like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.” With its innovative disco-funk sound, this track set the stage for Jackson’s monumental career and showcased Jones’ exceptional production skills.
6. 1981: Quincy Jones – “Just Once”
From his own album The Dude, “Just Once” features the soulful vocals of James Ingram. This heartfelt ballad has become a classic, demonstrating Jones’ talent for crafting emotionally resonant music.
7. 1982: Michael Jackson – “Billie Jean”
“Billie Jean,” one of the most recognizable songs in pop history, features an iconic drum and bass line that defines its sound. From Jackson’s record-breaking Thriller album, this track exemplifies Jones’ innovative production techniques and has solidified its place in music history.
8. 1982: Donna Summer – “Love Is in Control (Finger on the Trigger)”
In 1982, Jones collaborated with Donna Summer on her self-titled album. The synth-pop single “Love Is in Control” received a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female, showcasing Jones’ versatility in producing dance-forward music.
9. 1985: USA for Africa – “We Are the World”
“We Are the World” stands as a monumental charity record for famine relief in Africa. Produced by Jones, this song featured an all-star lineup, including Michael Jackson and Bruce Springsteen. Lionel Richie, who co-wrote the song, praised Jones as “the master orchestrator” of this iconic track.
10. 1989: Quincy Jones with Ray Charles and Chaka Khan – “I’ll Be Good to You”
Revisiting the classic “I’ll Be Good to You,” Jones re-recorded this track with Ray Charles and Chaka Khan, infusing contemporary production into the original R&B hit. This vibrant rendition showcases Jones’ ability to breathe new life into timeless music.
Celebrating Quincy Jones
Quincy Jones’ remarkable career spanned genres and generations, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. His ability to blend various musical styles and his collaborations with some of the greatest artists of all time have solidified his legacy as one of the most influential figures in music history. As we remember his contributions, let us celebrate his unparalleled body of work and the profound impact he has had on the world of music.
