During the 67th Grammy Awards, Will Smith, Cynthia Erivo, Janelle Monáe, Lainey Wilson, Stevie Wonder, and Herbie Hancock came together to honor the late music producer Quincy Jones, who passed away in November of last year at the age of 91. The nearly 20-minute tribute celebrated Jones’ immense contributions to music and culture, showcasing the legacy he left behind.
The tribute began with Erivo performing “Fly Me to the Moon,” accompanied by Hancock. Smith introduced the segment, reflecting on his personal experiences with Jones, including a memorable incident on the set of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” where Jones emphasized the importance of taking care of those who contribute to one’s success. Smith shared, “Quincy Jones always took care of people, and that’s how he fed the world.”
Lainey Wilson followed with a heartfelt performance, leading into Stevie Wonder’s segment, where he played harmonica and directed a choir in a rendition of the iconic charity single “We Are the World.” Concluding the tribute, Janelle Monáe wowed the audience with a performance of “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough,” a classic hit produced by Jones for Michael Jackson, donning a suit reminiscent of Jackson’s famous style and even including a moonwalk on stage. At the end of her performance, she expressed her love for Jones, revealing an “I Heart QJ” shirt.
Quincy Jones is celebrated not only for his 28 Grammy wins but also for his groundbreaking work that transcended racial boundaries in music and film. His acclaimed contributions include producing Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” creating “We Are the World,” and being involved in over 400 albums as a producer, composer, or performer.
Moreover, this tribute serves as a reminder of Jones’ impact and the values he instilled in those around him, echoing Smith’s sentiments about kindness and generosity. Jones is survived by seven children, ensuring his legacy continues through his family. As the music world remembers his contributions, it inspires hope for future generations to follow in his nurturing and innovative footsteps.
Overall, this year’s Grammy Awards paid a fitting homage to a towering figure in music history, reinforcing the notion that his legacy will endure through the artists he inspired and the music he helped create.