February 2, 2025
The 2025 Grammy Awards paid tribute to the late Quincy Jones, celebrating his profound influence on the music industry. Jones, who passed away in November 2024 at the age of 91, was renowned for his work with artists like Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Ray Charles. The tribute featured performances by Stevie Wonder, Cynthia Erivo, Janelle Monáe, and Lainey Wilson, who delivered renditions of songs Jones had produced or arranged.
Will Smith, a four-time Grammy winner, led the tribute, expressing deep gratitude for Jones's mentorship and impact on his career, particularly through "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." Smith highlighted Jones's role in introducing him to the entertainment industry, stating that Jones "changed his life forever." The tribute also included performances of "Fly Me to the Moon" by Erivo, "Let the Good Times Roll" by Wilson and Jacob Collier, and "Blusette" by Wonder and Herbie Hancock. The segment concluded with a children's choir performing "We Are the World," followed by Monáe's rendition of "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough."
Quincy Jones's legacy is marked by his versatility and contributions across various musical genres. His work with Michael Jackson, including the production of the album "Thriller," remains iconic. Beyond his collaborations with artists, Jones made significant contributions to film and television, composing scores for numerous movies and TV shows. His entrepreneurial ventures included founding the music magazine VIBE and Qwest Records. Throughout his prolific career, Jones won 28 Grammy Awards and was named one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century.
The Grammy tribute underscored the enduring impact of Quincy Jones on the music industry and his lasting influence on artists and audiences worldwide.
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