Legendary Composer Quincy Jones Passes Away at 91

Musical legend Quincy Jones, the influential composer and producer whose work shaped the sound of numerous iconic artists, has passed away at the age of 91. He died Sunday night at his home in Bel Air, California, surrounded by family, as confirmed by his publicist. The Jones family released the following statement.

"Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones' passing," the Jones family said in the statement. "And 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. He is truly one of a kind and we will miss him dearly; we take comfort and immense pride in knowing that the love and joy, that were the essence of his being, was shared with the world through all that he created. Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones' heart will beat for eternity."

Jones's career spanned several decades and genres, making him a pivotal figure in jazz and pop music. His impressive resume includes composing the Oscar-winning score for "In the Heat of the Night," producing Michael Jackson's record-breaking "Thriller," and spearheading the all-star charity single "We Are the World." 

Born in Chicago and later raised in Seattle, Jones developed a passion for music early on, studying under renowned musicians and performing with jazz bands as a teenager.

Throughout the 1960s, Jones made significant strides in the music industry, becoming the first African-American vice president of a major record label while working with Mercury Records. His collaborations included giants like Frank Sinatra, Count Basie, and Sarah Vaughan. The success of his work in both music and film continued through the 1980s, culminating in his production of "The Color Purple" and ongoing contributions to television, notably with "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air."

In addition to his professional achievements, Jones's personal life was marked by three marriages and seven children. Even in his later years, he remained active, producing the documentary "Keep on Keepin' On" in 2014 and reflecting on his remarkable career.