Legendary Producer Quincy Jones Passes Away at 91, Leaves Legacy of Music and Family
Quincy Jones, the iconic music producer whose career shaped decades of popular music, passed away at 91 on Sunday, Nov. 3, at his home in Los Angeles. His publicist, Arnold Robinson, confirmed the news, initially reported by the Associated Press. Known for his extensive contributions to music and his devotion to family, Jones’ legacy remains unparalleled.
In his final days, Jones shared a heartfelt Instagram post for his daughter, Martina, who turned 58 on Nov. 1. Alongside a photo of the two, he wrote, “Happy Birthday to my Tina Beena @martinafotos1!! 🎉. So proud to be yo papa! Big hug, I love you eternally.” Martina is one of Jones’ seven children, whom he shares with Swedish model Ulla Andersson, along with their son, Quincy III. This message, which encapsulated his warmth and affection, became his final public expression of love for his family.
Jones’ legacy extends far beyond his professional achievements. A father to seven children from various marriages and relationships, he often expressed his pride in his role as a parent. His eldest daughter, Jolie, 69, was born from his marriage to Jeri Caldwell, his high school sweetheart. With dancer Carol Reynolds, he welcomed Rachel, now 59. His marriage to actress Peggy Lipton brought two more daughters, Kidada and Rashida, and his youngest, Kenya, now 31, is the daughter of actress Nastassja Kinski.
In a 2018 Father’s Day Facebook post, Jones reflected on the impact of fatherhood and his own father’s influence. “Never underestimate your role in your kid’s lives… I learned that a bit later in my life,” he wrote. He credited his father, Quincy Delight Jones, Sr., for shaping his understanding of hard work and resilience, especially during tough times like the Great Depression. “I’m forever grateful to my father for working so hard to keep a roof over our head back in the 30s,” he wrote, adding that fatherhood had become one of his life’s “greatest blessings.”
Born on March 14, 1933, in Chicago, Jones’ journey in music began as a trumpet player with jazz legends such as Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie. His talent quickly propelled him into a career as a producer and arranger, helping shape the sound of the industry. Jones was instrumental in the careers of icons like Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, and Aretha Franklin. Notably, he produced Jackson’s legendary 1982 hit “Beat It,” which featured Eddie Van Halen’s iconic guitar solo.
Across his career, Jones garnered a record-breaking 28 Grammy Awards and remains one of the most influential figures in music production. His pioneering work, from jazz to pop and beyond, set a standard for excellence that few can match.
Jones is survived by his children and several grandchildren, who released a statement honoring his life and legacy. “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” they shared. “We celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”
