Quincy Jones Dies at 91: The Maestro Who Shaped American Music and Redefined Black Excellence

Quincy Jones, a legendary musical architect and a steadfast force in American culture, left a monumental legacy upon his passing at 91. He was surrounded by family in his Bel Air home when he passed on Sunday, his publicist Arnold Robinson confirmed. To the world, Jones was more than an entertainment giant; he was a revolutionary mind who transcended genres, shaped iconic eras, and bridged musical divides, leaving an indelible mark across jazz, pop, soul, and beyond. “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing. 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,” Jones’ family said in a statement. With a career that spanned over seven decades, Jones’ artistry and influence stretched far and wide. He was a trumpet player, composer, arranger, and, most of all, a visionary who saw music not as genres but as interconnected expressions of human experience. Jones’ genius earned him 80 Grammy nominations and 28 wins — placing him among the most decorated artists in Grammy history. His impact, however, could not be confined to...