Rockers React to Quincy Jones’ Passing
Quincy Jones, a legendary figure in the music industry renowned for his remarkable contributions as both a producer and musician, passed away on November 3 at the age of 91. Following the announcement of his death, numerous iconic rock artists took to various social media platforms to express their heartfelt condolences and pay tribute to his extraordinary legacy. The outpouring of respect from the music community underscores the profound impact Jones had on countless artists and the genre as a whole.
In a touching tribute on Instagram, Paul McCartney honored Jones as a “great man” and celebrated his incredible career that spanned decades. The Beatles member reflected, “He was supremely talented, and I felt privileged to have known him for many years.” McCartney fondly recalled their time together, noting, “Quincy, or ‘Quince’ or ‘Q’, as he was affectionately known, always had a twinkle in his eye and radiated a positive, loving spirit that inspired everyone around him. His collaborations with Michael Jackson are legendary, but he also had an astonishing range of talents that extended far beyond.”
Continuing his reflections, McCartney added, “My most cherished memories of Quincy are the private moments we shared together. I will forever be grateful to Nancy for arranging our visits whenever we were in Los Angeles. Those times were not only enjoyable but also incredibly inspiring and enriching.” This heartfelt reminiscence highlights the personal connections Jones fostered, showcasing how he touched the lives of those he encountered.
Rock Icons Share Heartfelt Tributes to Quincy Jones
In a similar vein, Elton John posted a nostalgic photo of himself with Jones, emphasizing the unparalleled nature of Jones’ career. “Nobody had a career as incredible as Quincy Jones. He played with the best and produced the best,” John expressed in his caption, concluding with, “What a guy. Loved him.” This sentiment resonates with many who recognize the immense talent and versatility that Jones brought to the music world.
Guns N’ Roses bassist Duff McKagan hailed Jones as an “all-time legend,” while Daryl Hall referred to him as a “force of nature.” Renowned singer-songwriter Carole King shared her heartfelt wish for Jones to “rest in peace and power,” reflecting the deep admiration and respect felt by many in the industry. These tributes illustrate the shared sentiment among musicians regarding Jones’ monumental influence on music.
Moreover, Lenny Kravitz conveyed his “extremely deep” love for Jones through an emotional tweet. “What a life. What an expression of authenticity. What a teacher,” Kravitz expressed, accompanied by photographs of their time together. “I am humbled to have experienced your openness and friendship. I am still processing this loss… My deepest condolences and respects to the Jones family.” Such tributes, alongside messages from other artists like New Order and Steve Vai, reflect the profound void left by Jones’ passing.
These heartfelt remembrances and tributes from the music community — emphasizing the legacy of one of the greatest producers in history — highlight a collective appreciation for a man whose work has shaped the soundscape of modern music. For those interested in exploring more about the influential figures in rock music, a gallery of the Top 25 Rock Producers can be found below.
Explore the Top 25 Influential Rock Producers of All Time
Gallery Credit: Ultimate Classic Rock Staff