Quincy Jones, the iconic music producer celebrated for his work with artists like Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 91.

Jones' publicist, Arnold Robinson, confirmed his death on Wednesday night, stating that he passed away peacefully at his Los Angeles home surrounded by his family.

Born in Chicago in 1933, Jones began his musical career as a trumpet player in Ray Charles' band as a teenager. He further honed his musical skills at Boston's Schillinger House, the predecessor to Berklee College of Music. In the 1950s, he worked with renowned jazz artists such as Clifford Brown and Duke Ellington. In 1962, he became the first Black vice president of A&R Records.

Later, Jones transitioned from jazz to pop music, establishing his own label, Qwest Records, in 1980. Beyond his work as a record producer, he also ventured into musical theater, film scores, and television production.

Jones' most iconic collaborations were with Michael Jackson. His production of Jackson's albums Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad solidified his status as a legendary music producer. These albums spawned numerous hit songs, including "Thriller," "Beat It," "Billie Jean," "Bad," and "Man in the Mirror." Jones' work garnered him 28 Grammy Awards from 80 nominations.

Jones had a special connection with South Korea. In 2013, he held his first concert in Seoul and established the "Quincy Jones Scholarship by CJ" to support Korean students studying at Berklee College of Music. He also participated in the "Mnet Asian Music Awards" (MAMA) in 2016, where he received the "Achievement Award."

Quincy Jones' passing marks the end of an era in music. His influence on popular music and culture will be felt for generations to come.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]