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Remembering Quincy Jones
Remembering Quincy Jones: A life in music, from big bands to 'Thriller'.
English
United States
EntertainmentLifestyleMusicLegacyInfluenceCareerArtist
Lionel Hampton's Big BandMercury RecordsMotownEpic RecordsQuincy Jones Entertainment
Quincy JonesRay CharlesMichael JacksonFrank SinatraLionel Hampton
- How did Quincy Jones's career begin, and what genres of music did his work encompass?
- Quincy Jones's career began as a trumpeter in Lionel Hampton's big band in the early 1950s, but his fame and wealth came from his work as an arranger, composer, and producer. His work spanned various genres, including big band, bebop, pop, movie soundtracks, TV themes, and hip-hop.
- What were some of Quincy Jones's most significant musical achievements and contributions?
- Jones's significant contributions included arranging and producing recordings for renowned artists such as Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Michael Jackson. He also produced Michael Jackson's 'Thriller,' the best-selling album of all time, and composed the theme music for the sitcom 'Sanford and Son'.
- What was the attire required of musicians in Lionel Hampton's band, and what did it reflect?
- In Lionel Hampton's band, Jones and his fellow musicians wore unusual attire, including Tyrolean hats, purple shawl collar coats, and Bermuda shorts. This uniform was a reflection of Hampton's unconventional approach to showmanship and audience engagement.
- What inspired Quincy Jones to compose "Soul Bossa Nova", and what was its later significance?
- The creation of "Soul Bossa Nova" was inspired by Quincy Jones's travels with Dizzy Gillespie to South America. There, he encountered the bossa nova movement in Brazil, and the song's creation followed swiftly after his return to the United States.
- Describe Quincy Jones's early relationship with Ray Charles and what aspects of Charles impressed him.
- Jones met Ray Charles at the age of 14, and they quickly formed a friendship that lasted for many years. Their shared experiences and musical collaborations solidified their bond, with Jones admiring Charles's independence and resilience.