The reason that I decided to write about Quincy Jones and his impact on more of the African American part of the world is to inspire. Quincy Jones is huge in the music industry and has won a lot more than people would’ve imagined a black person to have. From the way he conducts a band to the way he fills the blanks of a missing key, Jones is not just a talented producer; he is a gifted producer. Born in Chicago on March 14, 1933, and raised in Seattle, Quincy Jones is known for his skill in recording, songwriting, composing, arranging, and performing. His many gifts allow him to be seen as someone of great power. Although I didn’t know too much about him before I decided to write about him, I’ve become more interested in learning more, and that was the first step I took in writing my zine: researching.
I started my research off trying to figure out his background and how he grew up to see if I could get some insight into why he started his career. Going deeper into my research, I found out that he has a condition called synesthesia. This is where a person’s senses are intertwined, causing their senses to be triggered by another. In Jones’ case, he benefits from this because he says that it allows him to “see music before he hears it” which helps him visualize an entire structure of a musical arrangement. He describes these colors as silver, purple, and baby blues. Finding out that Quincy is the activist who shaped music and culture for black people gave me an even bigger reason to write about him. Although he passed away on November 3, 2024, I believe that he should still be remembered for many years to come.
Beyond his individual talents, Jones’ role as a mentor and advocate for other artists, particularly African American musicians, is undeniable. He has consistently used his platform to uplift and promote talent, providing opportunities for countless individuals to showcase their abilities. His work with Michael Jackson, for example, not only produced some of the most iconic albums in music history but also elevated Jackson to global superstar status. This broke down racial barriers in the music industry and paved the way for future generations of black artists. In addition to his work as a producer, Jones is also a prolific songwriter. His compositions have been shown in many films and television shows, earning him numerous awards. Whether he’s writing an orchestral score or a catchy pop tune, Jones brings the same level of artistry and craftsmanship to every project that he works on. His way of adapting and evolving in the industry proves his status is well deserved. My goal is to educate my audience about Quincy Jones and his creativity.
