"Music is a universal language," Quincy Jones once articulated, underscoring his profound connection to the art form. The visionary producer and musician, who transitioned from jazz to pop over a remarkable 60-year career, was instrumental in crafting the sound of legends like Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson. With the world mourning his recent passing at the age of 91, we look back at ten songs that exemplify his unparalleled artistry and his ability to elevate the musicians he collaborated with.
1) **Michael Jackson - "Billie Jean"**
In 1978, Michael Jackson met Quincy Jones while filming *The Wiz*, igniting a partnership that would forever change pop music. Their collaboration on the 1982 album *Thriller* yielded the iconic single "Billie Jean," a track that both encapsulated Jackson's experiences and showcased Jones's groundbreaking production. Initially hesitant about the song's lengthy intro, Jones ultimately deferred to Jackson's vision, leading to one of pop's most distinctive openings and a lesson in trusting an artist's instinct.
2) **Frank Sinatra - "Come Fly With Me" (Live at The Sands)**
Quincy Jones forged a deep bond with Frank Sinatra, culminating in a live performance at The Sands hotel in Las Vegas. The pairing of Jones’s vibrant arrangements with Sinatra’s smooth vocals produced a classic rendition of "Come Fly With Me." Celebrated for its engaging brass section, this track demonstrated Jones's innovative reworking of familiar standards, setting the tone for a historic evening.
3) **Lesley Gore - "It's My Party"**
Discovered as a teenager, Lesley Gore quickly rose to fame with her 1963 hit "It's My Party," thanks to Jones's arrangement and production. By employing distinctive vocal techniques and refreshing instrumentation, Jones turned a simple pop song into a timeless anthem of teenage heartache, capturing a generation's angst and spirit.
4) **Quincy Jones - "Summer In The City"**
Jones's version of "Summer In The City," reimagined from The Lovin' Spoonful's original, showcases his ability to transform a song into an entirely different genre. Released in 1973, this slowed-down and relaxed take reveals Jones’s talent for re-contextualizing music, highlighting a serene quality compared to the energetic original, and influencing numerous later artists.
5) **Dinah Washington - "Mad About The Boy"**
Quincy Jones demonstrated his arranging prowess with Dinah Washington's cover of "Mad About The Boy." By altering the time signature and slowing the tempo, Jones inflected the song with a sensuality not present in previous versions. This iconic arrangement later gained unexpected renewed interest, illustrating Jones's lasting influence.
6) **Quincy Jones - "Soul Bossa Nova"**
Emerging during the 1960s Brazilian music craze, "Soul Bossa Nova" became an enduring classic thanks to Jones's vibrant and playful instrumental arrangement. Its catchy melody and lively rhythms revived interest in bossa nova styles, earning it a cultural resurgence as the theme for *Austin Powers*.
7) **Michael Jackson - "Beat It"**
Created during the grueling sessions for *Thriller*, "Beat It" was tailored by Jones to break down racial barriers in the music scene. The hiring of guitarist Eddie Van Halen gave the track its iconic sound, further cementing Jackson's place in rock history and challenging conventions within the industry.
8) **The Brothers Johnson - "Strawberry Letter #23"**
Discovered by Jones, The Brothers Johnson found their niche with "Strawberry Letter #23." Jones's adept production elevated the original song, incorporating intricate guitar work and a robust sound that introduced new audiences to their artistry within the era of disco.
9) **Sarah Vaughan - "Misty"**
An early highlight in Jones's career was his collaboration with Sarah Vaughan on "Misty," a tender ballad showcasing both artists’ intricate musicality. The arrangement added depth and emotion, showcasing Vaughan’s pristine voice enhanced by a rich orchestral backdrop, solidifying their legendary partnership.
10) **USA For Africa - "We Are The World"**
The monumental charity single "We Are The World," composed by Jackson and Richie under Jones's direction, epitomized the power of music to unite. Recorded in just one night, this star-studded effort generated over $63 million for famine relief, underscoring Jones's skill in orchestrating a diverse range of talent for a common cause.
Each selected track reflects the profound legacy Quincy Jones leaves behind — a unique blend of innovation, collaboration, and artistry that continues to influence musicians and producers around the world.
