Quincy Jones, the iconic music producer celebrated for his transformative work with artists like Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Ray Charles, has passed away at the age of 91. Jones died peacefully on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at his Bel Air home, surrounded by family. His publicist, Arnold Robinson, confirmed the news, with sources like Yahoo and The Guardian reporting on Monday.

Jones’ family shared a heartfelt message: “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing…we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.” Known for a career spanning over seven decades, Jones amassed 28 Grammy Awards from 80 nominations, solidifying his place as the third most-awarded Grammy artist, surpassed only by Beyoncé and Jay-Z.

Jones famously produced Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Off the Wall, and Bad, which reshaped pop music and propelled Jackson to superstardom. His influence extended beyond music production; he co-wrote and produced the charity anthem We Are The World, gathered icons across genres, and scored numerous Hollywood films, helping redefine the film music landscape.

Beyond music, Jones made a significant impact in television and film. In 1990, he founded his production company, creating The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and co-producing The Color Purple. His later venture, Qwest TV, launched in 2017 as a streaming service dedicated to his enduring passion for music and the arts.

Born in Chicago in 1933, Jones overcame early challenges and discovered music at a young age. By 14, he was already performing with Ray Charles, and his journey led him to New York, where he played with jazz bandleader Lionel Hampton and appeared on Elvis Presley’s first TV broadcasts. He became a groundbreaking producer and arranger at Mercury Records, also making history as the first African American to receive an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song in 1968.

Despite his prolific achievements, Jones’ life was not without close calls. He narrowly avoided the 1969 Manson murders due to a missed engagement at Sharon Tate’s residence and survived a brain aneurysm in 1974.

Jones’ personal life was equally dynamic. He was married three times and fathered seven children, including actress Rashida Jones. His family’s statement reverberates with the impact he had on countless fans and collaborators: “We celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”

In an industry where boundaries often restrict creative expression, Quincy Jones broke through, becoming a symbol of limitless talent, vision, and resilience. His legacy endures as a reminder of music’s power to unite, inspire, and elevate across generations.