Celine Dion has paid tribute to her late “cherished mentor” Quincy Jones – see what she had to say below.
- READ MORE: Quincy Jones, 1933-2024: mega-producer who broke boundaries with a twinkle in his eye
On Monday (November 4), news broke of legendary producer Quincy Jones’ death at the age of 91. His death was accompanied by an outpouring of tributes to the late icon. Now, Celine Dion has joined those ranks, penning a memorial post for Jones on social media.
In a post on Instagram accompanied by two photos of her with the late producer and two graphics of her work with Jones, she wrote: “I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of my friend, the one and only musical genius, Quincy Jones. Quincy touched my world as both a cherished mentor and as also as someone I looked up to for his deep impact on virtually every form of American music.”
“I was privileged to work with Quincy, it was a dream come true,” Dion continued. “In our sessions, his musical intuition was nothing short of profound – he helped me capture ‘a little piece of heaven.’ Quincy always knew exactly what each song needed.
“In addition to his kindness and countless achievements, I also admired him for his philanthropic work which benefited the arts, global famine and underprivileged youth. His reach truly extends to all corners of the globe!”
See Celine Dion’s full post below.
Dion has worked in the studio with Jones twice. They first collaborated on 2006, when Jones produced her recording of ‘I Knew I Loved You’. Four years later, they once again teamed up for the recording of the 25th anniversary of ‘We Are the World’ in aid of Haiti, which had suffered from a 7.0 magnitude earthquake.
Over the years, Jones worked with countless artists including Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and Michael Jackson who he famously produced the iconic albums ‘Off The Wall’, ‘Thriller’ and ‘Bad’ with. ‘Thriller’ is still the biggest selling album of all time.
He also oversaw the all-star recording of 1985 charity record ‘We Are The World’ which was helmed by himself Jackson, Lionel Richie and producer Michael Omartian and raised funds for famine relief in Ethiopia in 1985.
Paul McCartney has since honoured Jones, penning a lengthy tribute post on social media where he recalled being introduced to Jones via The Beatles‘ producer George Martin and his “very positive, loving spirit”.
Among the numerous people who have paid tribute to Jones since the news of his death include Nile Rodgers, Michael Caine, Will Smith and more.
Current United States Vice President and Presidential candidate Kamala Harris also honoured Quincy Jones, calling him a “trailblazer” and acknowledged his contributions to “civil and human rights”.
