**Quincy Jones: Celebrated Musician and Producer Passes Away at 91**

**Quincy Jones, renowned musician and producer, died at the age of 91, leaving a legacy that shaped the music industry and influenced countless artists.**

Quincy Jones, the legendary American musician and producer, has passed away at the age of 91, as announced by his publicist, Arnold Robinson. Described by his family as a father and brother, they expressed both their sorrow and pride, stating, "Although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him." Jones was most famous for his work on Michael Jackson's iconic album, Thriller, which catapulted him into the limelight.

Throughout his illustrious career, which spanned over 75 years, Jones earned 28 Grammy Awards and was heralded by Time magazine as one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century. His partnerships were monumental; he collaborated with stars like Frank Sinatra and reimagined classic tracks, such as turning "Fly Me To The Moon" into a swing hit. His early work with a teenage Michael Jackson on The Wiz paved the way for monumental projects like Off the Wall and the unrivaled commercial success of Thriller, which sold around 34 million copies in the U.S. alone.

Jones was also instrumental in social activism through music, co-authoring "We Are the World" in 1985, which raised funds for famine relief in Ethiopia, gaining immense popularity and charting atop U.S. and UK music lists. In addition to his vast contributions to music, he composed for over 50 films and television shows, including the beloved British film The Italian Job.

In tributes that poured in following his passing, prominent figures such as Michael Caine and Sir Elton John reflected on Jones's remarkable career. "He played with the best and he produced the best," John remarked, while TV producer Shonda Rhimes hailed him as "a legend, a visionary, a pioneer." Many artists credited Jones as their inspiration, including Dr. Dre, who stated that Jones's influence on him was incalculable.

Jones also extended his talents to film, producing the acclaimed film The Color Purple, which introduced the world to Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg. Goldberg acknowledged him as "one of a kind," underscoring the immense impact he had on the industry.

His family paid a heartfelt tribute, calling Jones "truly one of a kind" and emphasized that his music and love would resonate eternally. Playwright Jeremy O'Harris noted that Jones's contributions to American culture were boundless, recognizing his historic nomination as the first Black Oscar nominee for best score. Rapper LL Cool J described him as a "mentor, role model, king," celebrating the role he played in guiding young artists throughout their careers.

As tributes continued from artists and fans alike, many emphasized that music would not be where it is today without the indelible mark left by Quincy Jones. His legacy, according to singer Victoria Monét, will indeed "live on forever."