Music Icon Quincy Jones Passes Away at 91, Leaving a Legacy in Music, Film, and Business for His Family
Quincy Jones, a monumental figure in the music industry, passed away on November 3 at the age of 91 in his Los Angeles home. Known for his unparalleled contributions to music and entertainment, Jones’s career spanned over six decades, with highlights including producing Michael Jackson’s record-breaking album Thriller, collaborating with Frank Sinatra, and pioneering his own music and media companies. His passing leaves an impressive legacy and a substantial fortune for his seven children, including actress Rashida Jones.
A Legacy Built on Music Mastery
Jones’s career trajectory marked him as one of the most influential figures in music. His journey began with jazz, but his reach soon extended to producing, arranging, and collaborating with industry legends such as Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Diana Ross. His work with Michael Jackson, particularly on Thriller (1982), cemented his reputation as an elite music producer, with the album remaining the best-selling record of all time with an estimated 70 million copies sold worldwide.
Notably, Jones was also behind the star-studded charity single “We Are the World,” which won him three Grammy Awards and established his influence beyond commercial hits.
Film, Television, and Beyond
Jones also made substantial contributions to film and television. He produced the score for The Color Purple (1985) and co-produced its 2023 adaptation. In television, Jones helped launch The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the iconic sitcom that propelled Will Smith to fame.
Expanding further, Jones founded Qwest Records in partnership with Warner Bros and later Quincy Jones Entertainment, which sold for $270 million in 1999. His ventures made him one of the most successful Black entrepreneurs in the broadcasting world.
A Staggering Fortune for His Family
Jones’s diverse ventures resulted in a considerable fortune, from record royalties to his lucrative business deals. After establishing the largest minority-owned broadcasting company in the U.S., his wealth is estimated to be hundreds of millions, leaving an immense estate for his children. Jones’s children, including Parks and Recreation star Rashida Jones, are now set to inherit his vast legacy.
Personal Life and Family
Jones was married three times and had seven children. He shared his life with several prominent figures, including Peggy Lipton, with whom he had daughters Rashida and Kidada Jones. His other children include Jolie, born from his first marriage to Jeri Caldwell, as well as Martina, Quincy III, Rachel, and Kenya.
Quincy Jones’ Heartfelt Tribute to Daughter in Final Instagram Post Before Passing
Quincy Jones, the legendary music icon, shared a loving farewell just days before his death on November 3rd, surrounded by family at his Los Angeles home. His final Instagram post was a tribute to his daughter Martina on her 58th birthday, captioned, “So proud to be yo papa! Big hug, I love you eternally.” Known for his close relationship with his children, Jones leaves behind a legacy cherished by family, fans, and the music world alike.
Jones always cherished the role of fatherhood. He previously shared that his own father inspired his deep commitment to family, a sentiment he celebrated as “one of the greatest blessings” of his life.
Quincy Jones leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, not only in music but also in film, television, and business. His impact will continue to resonate, not only through the wealth passed down to his family but also in the generations of artists and entrepreneurs he inspired.
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