Nov 05, V7N- Quincy Jones, the legendary music producer and polymath, has passed away at the age of 91. He died at home in Bel Air, Los Angeles, surrounded by family, according to a statement from his publicist, Arnold Robinson, although a cause of death was not specified. His family expressed deep sorrow at his passing while celebrating the extraordinary life he led, stating, "Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones' heart will beat for eternity."
 
Jones, often regarded as a transformative figure in the American music industry, had a career that spanned over seven decades. He worked with an impressive roster of artists, including Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, and Ray Charles, influencing a wide range of genres from jazz to hip-hop. His contributions as a jazz musician, composer, and arranger established him as a star in his own right, and he played a pivotal role in the business side of music as the first Black executive of a major record label, paving the way for many Black artists.
 
President Joe Biden hailed Jones as a "musical genius" who "transformed the soul of America," while Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Barack Obama also paid tribute to his impact on music and culture. Jones's achievements included producing iconic albums such as Michael Jackson's "Thriller," "Off the Wall," and "Bad," and he earned an astonishing 28 Grammy Awards throughout his career.
 
Born in 1933 on the south side of Chicago, Jones showed a natural talent for music early on, eventually studying at Berklee College of Music and joining prominent bandleader Lionel Hampton. He was known for his ability to produce and arrange at an incredible pace, crafting memorable scores for films and television, including the groundbreaking "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air."
 
Jones was also known for his candid nature and willingness to share stories from his illustrious career, earning him the affectionate nickname "LLQJ" (Loose-lipped Quincy Jones) among his family. His legacy has prompted tributes from across the political and entertainment spectrum, with figures like Clive Davis, Oprah Winfrey, and Elton John expressing their admiration and respect for his immense contributions to music and culture.
 
As the music world mourns the loss of this iconic figure, Quincy Jones's impact and influence will undoubtedly resonate for generations to come.
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