Quincy Jones, a towering figure in the music industry, who passed away at 91 on Sunday, has left an indelible mark on countless artistes across various genres. Popularly known as Q, his innovative production techniques and keen ear for talent have shaped the careers of many musicians for over seven decades, making him a pivotal force in the evolution of modern music.
Here’s a closer look at 10 artistes who have been profoundly influenced by Quincy Jones, along with key albums and songs that highlight their collaborations or inspirations drawn from his work.
1. Michael Jackson
– Albums: Off the Wall (1979), Thriller (1982)
– Songs: “Billie Jean,” “Thriller”
Quincy Jones played a crucial role in transforming Michael Jackson from a child star into the King of Pop. Their collaboration on Off the Wall set the stage for Thriller, which remains the best-selling album of all time. Jones’s ability to blend pop, rock, and R&B created timeless hits that defined an era.
2. Kendrick Lamar
– Album: To Pimp a Butterfly (2015)
– Songs: “Mortal Man,” “Alright”
Kendrick Lamar cites Quincy Jones as an inspiration for his genre-defying work that blends hip-hop with jazz influences. The intricate production on To Pimp a Butterfly reflects Jones’s legacy of pushing musical boundaries.
3. Bobby Brown
– Album: Don’t Be Cruel (1988)
– Songs: “My Prerogative,” “Every Little Step”
Brown’s fusion of R&B and hip-hop was shaped by Jones’s innovative production style, helping him carve out a unique space in the music landscape during the late ’80s.
4. Tina Turner
– Album: Private Dancer (1984)
– Song: “What’s Love Got to Do with It”
Tina Turner’s remarkable comeback was bolstered by Quincy Jones’s production techniques, showcasing her powerful vocals against a backdrop of contemporary sounds that captivated audiences worldwide.
5. James Ingram
– Album: The Dude (1981)
– Songs: “Just Once,” “One Hundred Ways”
James Ingram’s partnership with Jones resulted in some of the most memorable ballads of the ’80s. With lush arrangements and heartfelt lyrics, these songs not only showcased Ingram’s vocal prowess but also highlighted Jones’s ability to craft emotional narratives through music.
6. Frank Sinatra
-Album: It Might as Well Be Swing (1964)
– Song: “Fly Me to the Moon”
Quincy Jones revitalised Frank Sinatra’s sound during a pivotal moment in his career. By infusing jazz elements into Sinatra’s music, Jones helped create a timeless classic that remains a staple in American music.
7. Ray Charles
-Album: Genius + Soul = Jazz (1961)
-Songs: “One Mint Julep,” “Hit the Road Jack”
Quincy Jones arranged several tracks for Ray Charles, enhancing Charles’s innovative fusion of jazz and R&B. Their collaboration helped solidify Charles’s status as one of the greats in American music history.
8. Chaka Khan
-Album: I Feel for You (1984)
-Song: “Ain’t Nobody”
Chaka Khan’s powerful voice found a perfect match in Quincy Jones’s production style. The hit “Ain’t Nobody” became an anthem of empowerment and love, blending funk and soul in a way that resonated with audiences worldwide.
9. Donna Summer
-Album: Bad Girls (1979)
-Songs: “Hot Stuff,” “Bad Girls”
As one of the queens of disco, Donna Summer benefited from Jones’s innovative production techniques that blended rock and funk elements, helping her achieve massive commercial success.
10. George Benson
– Album: Breezin‘ (1976)
-Song: “This Masquerade”
George Benson’s transition from jazz guitarist to pop sensation was significantly influenced by Quincy Jones’s production on Breezin‘, which showcased Benson’s smooth vocals and guitar skills.
Quincy Jones’s influence extends far beyond these artistes; his legacy is woven into the fabric of modern music itself. Each collaboration not only produced chart-topping hits but also inspired future generations of musicians to explore new sounds and push creative boundaries.
