The Quincy Jones Musiq Consortium is a collection of leaders from all parts of the music industry and music education that have joined together to share resources, networks, and their passion to make music an ongoing part of the lives of children in the United States. The Consortium, encourages collaboration, shared services and advocacy while building a community in music education. The preservation of music education in the United States has been a cause very dear to Quincy’s heart for a very long time. This past week, The Quincy Jones Musiq Consortium Summit was held in New York, bringing music educators from across the country together with with a common voice and passion for music education.
Bob Lefsetz (of The Lefsetz Letter), reported, “the consortium is fighting on all fronts…Quincy opens doors.” You can read his experience at the summit here.
Valerie Strauss of The Washington Post also attended the summit and described it as “a gathering of educators and musicians who are onto something that could–really–transform music education in this country. The keys: Dozens of people from schools and non-profit organizations around the country are actually WORKING TOGETHER for this initiative, and it has the imprimatur of the famous producer Quincy Jones.” You can read Valerie Strauss’s article on the summit here.
Click the picture above to watch the video, or click here. Watch Quincy, QD3, Tyrese and other spokespersons of Operation HOPE’s 5MK (Five Million Kids) Initiative discuss the importance of financial literacy and education amongst today’s youth.
Tonight is the last night of the Bermuda Music Festival presented by Quincy Jones & friends. Our live streaming coverage in the media player will be broadcasting performances by Siedah Garrett, John Legend, Quincy & his big band, Naturally 7 and a special appearance from Chris Tucker. Please be patient for the footage to load as we are streaming in high quality. Stay tuned!
For more information, visit www.bmf09.com. For more great live streaming photos from Bermuda Music Festival 2009, click here. Photo Credit: Rob Loud for Gibraltar
For more information, visit www.bmf09.com. For more great live streaming photos from Bermuda Music Festival 2009, click here. Photo Credit: Rob Loud for Gibraltar
You can watch the stream of Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” movie premiere in Bermuda in the media player above. Quincy, along with Siedah Garret, Patti Austin, James Ingram and friends attended the premiere in Bermuda last night. Many of the BMF All Stars have worked with Michael Jackson in the past. Patti Austin collaborated with Michael Jackson on several projects including The Wiz and Off The Wall, while Siedah Garret wrote the #1 hit song, ‘Man In The Mirror’. Simply click ‘Play’ and choose the ‘On Demand’ feature to watch all the red carpet interviews from Quincy and the All Star Bermuda Music Festival cast sharing their fondest memories on Michael Jackson.
Recently, Quincy and Ludacris have been in the news together. Last week on Jay Leno’s “10 At 10″ Ludacris mentioned that the last book he read was, Q: The Autobiography of Quincy Jones. Ludacris also added, “He’s like my godfather…amazing book, make sure you read it.” You can purchase a copy of Q: The Autobiography of Quincy Jones on Amazon or by clicking here. To see Ludacris’s interview on Jay Leno’s “10 At 10″, click play on the media player below.
This weekend, Quincy was honored by Ludacris at the Ludacris Foundation Benefit Dinner in Washington, DC. The foundation also honored other leaders with a track record of giving back in their communities, including Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), who received the foundation’s Congressional Leadership Award and BET CEO Debra Lee. For more information on the Ludcris Foundation Benefit Dinner, click here.
Quincy is pictured with Josh Kelley, DeOndra Dixon (sister of Jamie Foxx) and Michelle Sie Whitten (Executive Director of GDSF).
Quincy was in Denver this weekend for the 2009 ‘Be Beautiful Be Yourself Jet Set Fashion Show’, raising awareness and support for Down syndrome research and care. The Global Down Syndrome Foundation fundraiser raised $1.35 million benefitting the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome at the University of Colorado’s Anschutz Medical Campus.
Quincy received the first ever Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award at the event. In a surprise moment for the audience, Quincy bestowed the Quincy Jones Exceptional Self-Advocate Award on DeOndra Dixon, Jamie Foxx’s younger sister, who has Down syndrome. Dixon is a Special Olympic medalist who has won an award for poetry, balances school and work and is a role model for young people with Down syndrome.
Down syndrome is the most frequent chromosomal disorder in the United States accounting for 1 in 733 live births. There are more than 400,000 people in the US and millions worldwide with the condition. Despite the frequency it is the least funded genetic condition by the National Institutes of Health. In 2008 Down syndrome accounted for just 0.0006 of its $28 billion budget. For more information on this event, click HERE.
Quincy and T-Pain at Record Plant Recording Studios
Quincy had another busy weekend as he and Sergio Mendes introduced “Bienvenido Gustavo” at the Hollywood Bowl this Saturday October 3rd. The welcome celebration “Bienvenido Gustavo” was held for world-renowned symphony conductor and new Music Director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel. Quincy introduced cuban pianist, Alfredo Rodriguez as the first act of the evening. The event also featured special performances by Herbie Hancock (with the Los Angeles County High School for the Jazz Arts Band), David Hidalgo & Taj Mahal (with Los Cenzontles), Andrae Crouch, and Flea (with the Silverlake Music Conservatory). At the later half of the night, the Expo Center Youth Orchestra performed “Ode To Joy” with Gustavo Dudamel conducting. Finally, Gustavo conducted the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra as they performed an exhilarating rendition of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.
And finally, a very special thank you to T-Pain and his team who recorded with Quincy for Quincy’s new album on Friday.
Former President Bill Clinton (along with Alicia Keys, Usher, President Paul Kagame and more) honored Quincy at the annual awards ceremony of the Clinton Global Initiative Forum in New York on Thursday night. During the ceremony, Quincy was given the Clinton Global Citizen Award.
“Quincy is a legend of our time,” Clinton said. “It is rare that an individual commits as much to philanthropic causes as he does to his own career. Quincy’s many musical talents, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit, have led him to make a lasting change in the lives of thousands of people throughout the world. His determination, creativity and strong leadership serve as an inspiration to all of us.” To read more, click HERE.
The night before, Quincy attended the U2 concert at the Giants Stadium. As reported by MTV, “Bono interrupted “Beautiful Day” with a shout-out to another music legend. “I want to do something for Quincy Jones, who is here tonight.” Somehow, he then was able to fit a couple of lines from Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” into “Beautiful Day.” To read more, click HERE.
Yesterday Quincy had a very busy day in New York City. Quincy teamed up with Tommy Hilfiger and Jeffrey Sachs to announce a new partnership between The Tommy Hilfiger Foundation and Millenium Promise at the brand new Tommy Hilfiger Flagship Store on Fifth Avenue. Quincy, through his Foundation is on the Board of Directors of Millennium Promise. Millennium Promise fights extreme poverty in Africa, to learn more click HERE.
That same day, Quincy attended and spoke at the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new permanent site for the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts. To learn more, click HERE.
Today Quincy shot a live podcast interview in his home to discuss the upcoming Bermuda Music Festival. Quincy will be hosting and performing at the Bermuda Music Festival. You can watch the podcast interviews with fellow performers Erykah Badu, John Legend, Wyclef Jean and Quincy using the player below, or by clicking here.
The full lineup for the Bermuda Music Festival includes Patti Austin, Erykah Badu, James Ingram, Wyclef Jean, John Legend, Michael McDonald, Kenny Rogers, Naturally 7, Siedah Garrett, Chris Tucker, and more! For more information on The Bermuda Music Festival, please visit www.bmf09.com.
Over the weekend, news broke of the artist lineup Quincy has put together for the 2009 Bermuda Music Festival. To read the press release, click HERE. Some of the artists that will be featured include Patti Austin, Erykah Badu, James Ingram, Wyclef Jean, John Legend, Michael McDonald, Kenny Rogers & Naturally Seven. For more info and to buy tickets, visit www.BMF09.com.
For a helicopter’s view of the island and the location of the concert, click here or on the following photo:
On July 28th 2009, Alfredo Rodriguez will make his debut New York performance since defecting from Cuba in January of this year.
Don Heckman, of the Los Angeles Times wrote on his blog “[Alfredo is] an astonishing talent…who calls up images of a youthful Art Tatum, leavened with an off-center, Thelonious Monk point of view, spiced with the surging rhythmic passions of his homeland;” Quincy Jones, in a 6/9/09 interview with La Opinion claimed, “[Alfredo] is very special and I do not say that easily because been I have been surrounded by the best musicians in the world my entire life … he is one of the best.”
Please come join us — details of the evening are below:
Alfredo Rodriguez Trio: Featuring Dafnis Prieto and Charles Flores. Admission: $20. Box office: 212-576-2232. Address: 116 E. 27th Street, New York, NY 10016. TWO SHOWS! One at 7:30pm and one at 9:30pm. Click on the time you want to pre-order tickets, or just buy tickets at the door! All seating is on a first come, first seated basis. Ticket purchase guarantees you admission to the show. Serving award winning Blue Smoke Barbecue.
Quincy was present at the Montreux Jazz Festival this Sunday where he introduced Chinese piano virtuoso Lang Lang and veteran Herbie Hancock. The two fused a fantastic mix of classic and jazz music and performed together as a kick-off to their upcoming tour. Stephanie Nebehay of Reuters News reported,
Producer and composer Quincy Jones, who co-produced the Swiss festival from 1991-93, is back in town for a few days and made a cameo appearance to introduce the pair. ”I’m happy to play a tiny part in this momentous occasion. As usual, Claude knows how to make it special,” he said. ”Herbie has been practicing up to five hours a day — as serious as a heart attack,” Jones said. “This is one of the highests of highs, it’s as good as it gets.”
For some strange reason, I have a history of meeting young performers when they reach age 12. There was Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Tevin Campbell, and, of course, Michael Jackson. In 1978 Sidney Lumet pulled me kicking and screaming into doing the music for The Wiz, starring Diana Ross as Dorothy and Michael as the Scarecrow. Michael dived into the filming, learning not only his lines but everyone else’s. There was only one problem: there’s a scene where the Scarecrow starts pulling proverbs from his stuffing and talking about Socrates. Michael kept saying “So-crates.” It was really interesting to watch; either because of his age or his fame, no one wanted to correct him. After about the third time, I pulled Michael aside and told him the correct pronunciation. He looked at me with the big, wide eyes of a child opening a present under the Christmas tree and said, “Really?” It was at that moment that I said, “Michael, I’d like to produce your solo album.” It was that wonderment I saw in his eyes that locked me in, the idea that we could go into unexplored territory, a place that, as a jazz musician, gave me goosebumps.
Michael and Freddy DeMann and Ron Weisner, his managers at the time, went to Epic Records and told them they wanted me to do the album, which went over like a sack of potatoes. Epic thought I was too jazzy and completely rejected the idea. Michael was crushed, but he was also very savvy when it came to business—it was one of his attributes that I think people underestimated. He’d been around the record business long enough with the Jackson 5 to know how to work record executives. He flatly told the label that I was doing the album. Eventually, they gave in, and we began making Off the Wall.
Michael was so shy, he’d sit down and sing behind the couch with his back to me while I sat with my hands over my eyes—and the lights off. We tried all kinds of tricks to help with his artistic growth, like dropping keys just a minor third to give him flexibility and a more mature range, and adding more than a few tempo changes. I also tried to steer him to songs with more depth, some of them about real relationships—we weren’t going to make it with ballads to rodents. Seth Riggs, a leading vocal coach, gave him vigorous warm-up exercises to expand his top and bottom range—which I desperately needed to get the vocal drama going. We approached that record like we were going into battle. Off the Wall would sell 10 million copies, but anyone who tells you that they knew it was going to be a big hit is an out-and-out liar. We had no idea it was going to be as successful as it was, but we were thrilled. Michael had moved from the realm of bubblegum pop and planted his flag squarely in the heart of the musical pulse of the ’80s.
From then on, I called Michael “my little brother,” and like the world, I was devastated at the news that he had suddenly passed away. How could that be? This wonderful artist who commanded the stage with catlike grace, shattered recording-industry records, and broke down cultural boundaries around the world, and yet remained the gentlest of souls. He was a different kind of entertainer. He’d work for hours, perfecting every lick, gesture, and movement so that they came together precisely the way they were intended to. We achieved heights in the ’80s that I can humbly say may never be reached again, and reshaped the music business forever. How could Michael be gone? He was a part of my soul. -Q
“I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news. For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don’t have the words. Divinity brought our souls together on The Wiz and allowed us to do what we were able to throughout the 80’s. To this day, the music we created together on “Off The Wall,” “Thriller” and “Bad” is played in every corner of the world and the reason for that is because he had it all…talent, grace, professionalism and dedication. He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I’ve lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him.”
Quincy recently spoke at The 12th Shanghai International Film Festival where he was greeted by an audience of university students to discuss his career and give advice. AP Shanghai reported:
SHANGHAI (AP) - American music legend Quincy Jones delighted an audience of university students in Shanghai on Friday with stories about working with Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson - and a sprinkling of Chinese phrases he had picked up…He greeted the students at Fudan University’s Shanghai Institute of Visual Art with the Mandarin phrase for thank you - “xie xie ni” - and praised their “piao liang” - beautiful - campus…The multiple Grammy award-winner advised students to follow their interests and “never chase money,” but also to work hard and prepare well for any career.
For more on Quincy’s speech at The 12th Shanghai International Film Festival, read the article by clicking here.
We’re honored to announce that Quincy was recently inducted into The Apollo Legends Hall of Fame at the 75th Apollo Fundraiser Concert. Among those who attended the event were Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, Anita Baker, the O’Jays, Bill and Camille Cosby, and Smokey Robinson. The event was a celebration of The Apollo’s legacy “as a proving ground” for many talented entertainers throughout the years. Mariah Carey and Jamie Foxx presented Patti LaBelle and Quincy as the inductees of the year. For more information on the 75th anniversay of the Apollo or this event, click here or visit www.apollotheater.org.
In other news, Reuters picked up an article on Alfredo Rodriguez, discussing his whirlwind journey in the states. In the article by Gail Mitchell of Billboard, Alfredo talks about his partnership with Quincy, his musical roots and his upcoming performance at the 31st Playboy Jazz Festival. To view the article, click here.
Tonight, Quincy will be hosting the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences Tribute to Alan and Marilyn Bergman at the Samuel Goldwin Theatre. Along with being lifelong friends with Quincy, Alan Bergman and Marilyn Bergman have developed a vast an prolific career in the music industry as songwriters, lyricists, composers and authors. The Bergmans have written many famous songs including “What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?“, “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” and “Windmills of Your Mind.” Quincy has had the honor of working with The Bergmans in songs like, “How Do You Keep The Music Playing?” and “I Knew I Loved You.” Along with hosting the event, Quincy will be introducing the legendary singer, Patti Austin, accompanied by Cuban pianist, Alfredo Rodriguez. They will be performing a piece from The Bergmans, titled, “The Girl Who Used To Be Me.”
Quincy is now on Twitter, the online social networking website. To follow Quincy click here or click the bird logo to the right of this page. Happy tweeting!
On April 30th 2009, Quincy was awarded the first annual Music for a Better Life Award from HealthCorps, the health education non-profit foundation created by Dr. Mehmet Oz, the famous doctor who has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey show. Presenting the award, was fellow musician and entertainer, LL Cool J. The event shed light on the relationship between health and music, since many musicians in need have been devastated by health care emergencies.
Foundations like the Jazz Foundation of America (JFA) have been a lifeline for jazz musicians in dire straits—artists without insurance or pensions, especially those who were never properly compensated for their work. In other instances, JFA has been there to forestall evictions and to provide emergency medical treatment, keeping “starving” musicians afloat.
In other news, we are pleased to announce that a new Quincy Jones Podcast is available. In this episode, Quincy discusses his views on China, the Olympics and China’s re-emergence onto the world stage. Simply click the “Podcast” link or visit here.
John Legend was recently recognized as one of TIME’ Magazine’s 100 Most Influential of 2009 and Quincy saluted him in the issue for the honor. One of Quincy’s most noteworthy talents is his ability to intuitively recognize talent, whether it has been Oprah, Michael Jackson, Will Smith, Lesley Gore, The Brothers Johnson or more recently-Alfredo Rodriguez. Quincy states that John Legend’s talent in the future will be beyond what it is today. In the article, Quincy describes John Legend as a “young Donny Hathaway, and I have no doubt that as he continues to grow, he will become as artistically and socially significant as Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield and Stevie Wonder. He is a genius, and we’ve seen only the tip of the iceberg. For all that he has already achieved in his career, it is going to be fun watching where he goes from here.” In addition to John Legend’s past professional and musical accomplishments, Quincy knows that John’s star will shine brighter for years to come.
Quincy was recently awarded in recognition of his lifelong dedication to humanitarian work, especially in the fight against malaria. UN Officials, faith leaders from around the world, and malaria experts gathered on Friday for the launch of a special campaign against malaria, named: “One World Against Malaria Campaign“. Quincy accepted the award and told the crowd, “It’s a remarkable thing to be on the road to defeating malaria.” Presenting the award to Quincy was Ray Chambers, who is a UN special envoy for malaria to United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon. Ray Chambers said that Quincy “was the one who inspired me to get involved in malaria. As I learned about malaria through Quincy, it really tugged at me because it’s killing three times more kids under the age of five than HIV/AIDS, and it’s preventable with a 10-dollar mosquito net.”
Malaria is one of the leading causes of death (especially for children) in Sub-Saharan Africa, yet it is also one of the most preventable diseases. Sadly, malaria treatment and prevention for many in Sub-Saharan Africa come at an unaffordable price. In turn, malaria has forced many Africans into poverty as it is both cause and effect, since the poor do not have the financial capacities to prevent or treat the disease.
Fortunately, US Ambassador to the UN, Susan Rice announced that the US will help end malaria by 2015. The campaign coincided with World Malaria Day (Saturday April 25th). To get involved in the fight against malaria, visit: www.MalariaNoMore.org. To watch Quincy shed light on Malaria and www.MalariaNoMore.org, check out the youtube clip below:
We found a great clip of Quincy with his Big Band in 1960 that we wanted to share with you. The clip is from a documentary that features interviews from Clarence Avant, Patti Bown, Sidney Lumet and Gerald Early. It’s covering Q’s “Free & Easy” tour from early in his career. What started out as a “golden opportunity” turned into an experience that Quincy would never forget. Quincy jumped at the chance to play with a ‘dream team’ of big band musicians to create The Quincy Jones Big Band. The tour took them across a great deal of Europe-including London, Paris and Switzerland. Unfortunately, it was up to Quincy to keep the band and the whole tour afloat. While managing the entire trip, Quincy had to face the odds of increasing debt, his responsibility to his band mates, and handling the payroll. The Big Band made it back to the States in one piece, but Quincy came back with a debt of more than $300,000. Despite this, Quincy stayed the course and worked the debt off by working as A&R at Mercury Records. Within 1 year, Quincy would soon become the Vice President at Mercury Records and break Lesley Gore into the #1 spot in pop music charts. You can watch the Youtube clip below:
Quincy was featured in a touching Los Angeles Times article this weekend titled: Q and Me. Quincy and god-daughter, Nicole Avant (activist, political finance cochair, Music Publishing VP and daughter of Quincy’s longtime friend, Clarence Avant) sit down to share a conversation about politics, moments with family, making a difference and the pursuit of their passions. During the sit-down, Nicole and Q discuss their work ethic, where Q remarks, “with that kind of focus, that’s where you go—all the way in…Never stopped. But we got it right.” Nicole expands on how the two have the same perfectionist drive and how Quincy’s work ethic has rubbed off on her:
“I remember sneaking out to the studio…it was the first time I ever saw you in your creative space. And I remember…watching you, and you were writing, writing, writing, and then you’d throw it away. Testing, testing, testing—and you were getting angry. It was the first time I had seen you frustrated, but it was great because you wanted it. I could tell it wasn’t coming out the way you had it in your heart. I don’t know which Michael Jackson album you were working on, but it taught me about creativity—owning it and wanting it to be right. And now I notice in my life, as I have come into my own, everyone says, ‘You’re such a perfectionist.’”
We are also excited to report that Quincy will be inducted into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame at The 75th Anniversary of Harlem’s historic Apollo Theater on June 8th, 2009. Along with Quincy, Patti Labelle will also be an inductee of the night. Other guests of the evening will include: Mariah Carey, Jaimee Foxx, Bill and Camille Cosby, Steve Harvey, Anita Baker, and The O’Jays.
Today we rememberMaurice Jarre, the talented and “Oscar-winning French composer of music scores” for films like Doctor Zhivago, Lawrence of Arabia, and Ghost. Jarre passed away at age 84, after a battle with cancer. Jarre was known as “Hollywood’s most decorated composer,” after having written over 150 scores for a wide spectrum of films, from romances to thrillers.
Quincy had this to say about Maurice: “This is not only the loss of a dear and cherished friend, but also one of the most unique film composers of our time. He had a very special connection to the essence of each film and I’ll really miss him.”
Our sympathy and best wishes go out to his family and friends.
After the dust from Quincy’s whirlwind week at SXSW has settled, we thought everyone would like to see a few Youtube clips from Quincy’s keynote address the 2009 SXSW Music Conference. In the first Youtube clip of Quincy’s SXSW 2009 keynote address, Quincy discusses his humble beginnings growing up in the gangster-riddled south side of Chicago, “the biggest black ghetto in America.” Quincy also optimistically muses about getting older, celebrating his recent 76th birthday, and why he can’t slow down. You can also watch Quincy discuss how he’s maintained lasting friendships with people in his life that mean a lot to him-”I’ve been blessed and I have been inspired by… to have worked side by side with probably over 95% of America’s musical giants in the last 60 years.”
Last week, two remarkable things took place in the world of Alfredo Rodriguez: He recorded a series of songs at the legendary Capitol Studios in Hollywood; and Quincy Jones attended the session to produce Alfredo’s songs. The session took place in Studio A of Capitol Studios, which holds more than 50 years of recording history. Alfredo used studio gear courtesy of Harman International. You can check out a slideshow of the Capitol Studios recording session below:
We recently posted about one of Quincy’s favorite new groups, Naturally 7, a hip-hop a cappella group that mixes beat boxing, R&B and pop into one of the most phenomenal live performances you’ve ever seen. Naturally 7 does far more than just sing- using their voices, they mimic all sorts of instruments, be it guitar, bass, harmonica, drums, or trumpet. This new style is called ‘vocal play.’ As you’ll see in their performances below, vocal play is the use of one’s mouth to mimic all sorts of instruments and create the feeling of a full band. Naturally 7 performed to a packed house at the Dakota Lounge in Santa Monica on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th 2009.
You can watch their performances of “Can You Feel It” and “Broken Wings” in the youtube media players below. In related news, Naturally 7 were recent guests on the CNN show, Music and Conversation with Shannon Cook. The guys demonstrate their individual vocal play samples of the instruments they can mimic, while talking about the the evolution of the Naturally 7 sound. Rod Eldridge of Naturally 7 shows Shannon Cook how he makes his ‘trumpet’ and ‘record scratch’ sound. Garfield Buckley of Naturally 7 gives a sampling of his vocal play with a bluesy ‘harmonica’. You can watch the video of Naturally 7’s CNN interview in the media player at the bottom of this post.
We are thrilled to share news from Quincy’s whirlwind week at the 2009 SXSW Music Conference for his keynote address. Quincy was warmly welcomed by the audience, as Austin’s KVUE reported. Before Quincy began his keynote speech, he received a standing ovation. “He returned the favor by complimenting the ‘live music capital of the world.’” Prefix Mag reported that “Quincy’s speech was full of warmth and charm and spotted with proverbs [that] he picked up along the way.” His heartfelt and personable keynote was delivered to hundreds of people inside room 18ABC of the Austin Convention Center. As Quincy’s keynote progressed, he casually mentioned the more memorable moments from his award winning career, and moved on to more pressing issues, lamenting “the irreparable damage of illegal downloading.” The industry’s biggest challenge today is maintaining revenue streams for artists and its corporate structure. The Boston Globe quoted Quincy saying that the times have “raised a new generation of consumers that [don't] realize you’re supposed to pay artists for their music.” Quincy’s solution is to “keep people connected to the creators.” According to The New York Times, Quincy announced that he was “open to any ideas” that could keep the music industry afloat. Quincy defended the importance of the creative craft as he said, “We do it whether we get paid or not,” and joked with, “Don’t worry, I won’t let them know that out of this room.” But Quincy then returned to the seriousness of the issue saying: “we need to get paid,” as Austin 360 summarized. Los Angeles’s LA Weekly was also in attendance to catch some of Quincy’s musings as he said: ”we are conduits” for a “higher power…never forget that.” Music comes through us. It’s not about us.”
That same day, Alfredo Rodriguez played to Quincy and a sold-out show at the Elephant Room in Austin Texas. You can watch his encore performance along with a few words from Quincy below:
We are pleased to announce that on the eve of his 2009 SXSW Keynote Speech, Quincy will be having a book signing for his acclaimed coffee table book, The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey and Passions, this Wednesday, March 18th 2009, 6:00 PM at Barnes & Noble, Lincoln Park in Dallas. The signing will take place at:
Lincoln Park 7700 West Northwest Highway, Suite 300, Dallas, Texas 75225
Quincy will be signing copies of his new book, The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey and Passions. In other news, the petition for the Secretary of The Arts cabinet position has risen to a total signature count of 239,460 signatures today. The petition is still attracting press coverage around the world and Quincy plans to travel to Washington, D.C. in May with the signed petition. You can sign the petition here or view the petition here. This has been a cause that has grown very dear to Quincy. “I have had that idea for a long time now,” Quincy said. ”It is just a question of us executing it. I think we need it now more than ever. I really do. There’s science, and then there’s the soul.”
The Dallas Observerrecently published an article on Quincy, titled: “Quincy Jones Can’t Help But Look Back on His Life and Legacy”. In the article, Quincy gives us his perspective on life, death, legacy, and why he can’t slow down. Quincy turned 76 this past Saturday, March 14th, and “at his age, there’s no time for backward-glancing, not when every day is ‘like starting all over again.’ He does not stand still…” Because Quincy has “lost 144 friends in 2 years,” Quincy has to look on the bright side everyday. He also emphasizes that one does not lose their loved ones forever, because their spiritual energy lives on:
“It helps the people get through it, because that’s who you care about—the ones left behind,” he says. “It’s a reality of life. And I finally realize and rationalize it: There’s a chemical energy and spiritual energy, and thank God the creative people leave their spiritual energy here. We lived our life, and it’d be a drag to say, ‘I wish we spent more time together.’”
Quincy always says you have to give back and do something that will outlive you. Quincy stays active 365 days out of the year-in fact this week, Quincy traveled to London & Cairo for his birthday celebrations and will even give the 2009 SXSW Keynote Address this Thursday, March 19th. Quincy’s keynote address will touch on the importance of bringing “positive change in the world.” The keynote will also emphasize the “responsibility of the artist to use his/her craft to bring people together for the betterment of mankind.” Quincy has dedicated the greater portion of his work to a long list of personal Humanitarian efforts.
“That’s what your work is—your life. I remember when I studied with Nadia Boulanger in Paris in 1957. She said, ‘Your music can never be more or less than you are as a human being. If you haven’t lived, you don’t have anything to say, no matter how much technique you have.’”
However, Quincy sums up the important things life with a few sweet and simple words: ”Love, laugh, live and give.”
Alfredo Rodriguez is the newest member of the Quincy Jones musical family. He defected from Cuba just 5 weeks ago—leaving behind his friends and family to come pursue a better life in America and to work with Quincy Jones. Some of you have probably seen some of the recent press on Alfredo (Variety, Entertainment Tonight), but today we caught up with the 23-year-old pianist and got some insight about his journey, his current disposition, and about some of the things that are important to him.
1.Alfredo, what kind of role did music play in your life growing up?
I grew up in very musical family, and we were always listening to music together. We would listen to Cuban music, and many other types ofinternational music. My father is one of the most famous singers in Cuba, and as I grew up, I had the opportunity to be exposed to multiple genres and styles of music. I learned to appreciate good music at a very young age. Music has always been for me — and remains to this day — the most important thing besides my family. My entire childhood is a series of musical memories. For me music is everything, it’s woven into every part of my life. Not just during my childhood, but my entire set of memories. In other words, every personal emotional stage or moment of my life has been tied together by music. Music is my life.
2.Which artists are direct influences on your music and creative process?
On the classical side, Bach, Beethoven and Stravinsky. I am also influenced by Thelonious Monk, Phil Evans, Quincy Jones and Herbie Hancock.But my influences have not just been musicians. My influences include art, nature, and various life experiences.
3.Are you writing music now and if you are what can we expect?
I’m always writing music- sometimes it’s on paper, other times it’s just in my head. But literally in every moment including right now I am mulling over musical ideas in my head. I just composed a new piece called “Crossing the Border.” You can find an early version of the song on youtube, but it’s something I’m still refining. I am also working on Jazz compositions, Film compositions and Classical compositions– all of which I still need to get down on paper.
4.What projects are you currently working on?
Mid-month I will be part of special surprise with Quincy Jones that you will all know about soon. Also, later this month I will have the opportunity the be in the studio with Quincy to record a single song that will be announced shortly. This summer I will be playing the Playboy Jazz Festival and dozens more festivals that will also be announced shortly. Sorry for all the “announced shortly’s”!!!
5.Have you received any memorable advice from your mentor, Quincy Jones?
Long before I met Quincy he taught me many things. I’ve been listening to Q’s music– his compositions, his productions and his arrangements– since I was born. One of the things that interested me most is that Quincy’s mind was not restricted to one genre. Recently I’ve obviously had the honor of meeting him and he’s taught me much more. It’s been both a pleasure and an honor to discus music with Quincy because he is a living legend. I’ve learned about life, about music and about having an open mind. Quincy’s taught me not to be scared to pursue anything. I’ve learned to appreciate all the different genres of music of the world. Quincy is like a “Patron” (Spanish word meaning father figure or mentor) for me. I would love to follow in his footsteps, to establish myself as a jazz artist, and eventually take my musical knowledge into other genres.
6.Tell us about your experience, so far, in the States?
I only have a little to say because I’ve been here for one month. In certain ways, coming here has been unbelievable for me. I’m following my dreams and this has been a life-long goal for me. I have the opportunity to work with Quincy Jones, who in my opinion is the best in the world, but it’s been hard because my family is in Cuba. I do not just miss my family, but also my customs, my life, my friends, and the things that I grew up with. However, as I said earlier, music is my life. Not to get too esoteric, but sometimes I feel like a sailor lost at sea, whose destiny is determined by the wind and the tide, and for me I’m just following my music, which is what I’ve done my whole life. It is the sole reason I’m here in the first place.
7.Do you have a message for your family and friends in Cuba?
Everyone has a destiny. Mine is music. I decided to come here for better or for worse- because of music and only for music. The reason I’m here is because this is the best place on earth for me to pursue my career where I’ll have the best chance for success. The last and most important thing I want to say to family is: I love you and I am positive we will see each other again one day. Because at the end of the day, I haven’t done anything to hurt anybody.
For more information on Alfredo, visit his official website at www.alfredomusic.com
Lastly, below is a song that Alfredo wrote for his father:
Quincy was recently spotted making a cameo in Jaime Foxx’s music video for “Blame It”. Quincy is seen around 1:55 and 4:49 of the video’s running time. You can view the video here on YouTube. Quincy is featured alongside Forest Whitaker, Jake Gyllenhaal, Ron Howard, Samuel L. Jackson, Bill Bellamy, T-Pain, and Jermaine Dupri. We thought Quincy’s fans might enjoy watching Quincy’s cameos in a few music videos. We’ve compiled a few highlights, including Puffy featuring Mase in “Been Around The World,” Michael Jackson’s “Liberian Girl,” Wu-Tang Clan’s “Triumph,” the opening music scene from Austin Powers: Goldmember, and Ludacris’s “Number One Spot.” You can watch the videos below:
Quincy can be seen in the video below around 00:30 through 1:40 of the video’s running time.
Quincy can be seen in the video below around 1:10 and 3:35 of the video’s running time.
Quincy can be seen in the video below around 5:15 of the video’s running time.
Quincy can be seen in the video below at 1:05 of the video’s running time.
Quincy can be seen in the video below around 0:01 and 3:05 of the video’s running time.
We are thrilled to introduce one of Quincy’s favorite new artists, Naturally 7. They’re a very non-traditional hip hop, a cappella group that mixes beat boxing, R&B and pop into one of the most phenomenal live performances you’ve ever seen. Naturally 7 does far more than just sing- using their voices, they mimic all sorts of instruments, be it guitar, bass, harmonica, drums, or trumpet.
Naturally 7 were a surprise guest at Quincy’s 75th Birthday concert at the Montreux Jazz Festival, in addition to performances on The Ellen Show, BBC Breakfast, The Tavis Smiley Show and at The TED Conference of 2009.
We hope you find them as refreshing and talented as we do. Naturally 7 will be performing on St. Patrick’s Day at The Dakota Lounge in Santa Monica, California. The show times and information are below:
Naturally 7 performing @ The Dakota Lounge 1026 Wilshire Blvd. Santa Monica, California. St. Patrick’s Day- Tuesday March 17th 2009. Doors open at 7PM, Naturally 7 perform at 9:30PM. Tickets are $10.
You can also check out a video of Naturally 7 on Youtube.com below:
Quincy was featured in NPR’s News & Notes on February 27th, 2009. To listen to the live interview click here. Quincy talks about the importance of cultures and gives us a glimpse of his worldliness through his travels when he toured with the Dizzy Gillespie Big Band (pictured above while on tour at the Acropolis). The U.S. State Department sent them on a goodwill tour around the globe at a time when President Eisenhower wanted to spread the ideals of American democracy as a weapon against communism. As Quincy always says: “You have to go to know.” The interview ties into Quincy’s campaign for a Secretary of Arts, which focuses on the importance of American culture preservation and promotion.
With nearly a quarter million signatures, the Secretary of the Arts Petition is gaining momentum. The total signature count as of today is 238,015 signatures and still attracting press coverage around the world. You can sign the petition here or view the petition here. Please spread the word!
Variety, Billboard Business News and Entertainment Tonight Online were all abuzz after the Playboy Jazz Festival Press Conference, which took place at the Playboy Mansion. Quincy spoke during the press conference and introduced Alfredo Rodriguez, one of the most promising 21st century jazz pianists in the world. Alfredo played “Crossing The Border” and “Abril” -2 of his songs that brought the crowd at the press conference to a standing ovation. Quincy also spoke about his ongoing campaign for the Secretary of The Arts position for the Obama administration. Quincy plans to travel to Washington, D.C. in May with the signed petition. The total signature count for the Secretary of The Arts position petition as of today is 237,294 signatures and still attracting press coverage around the world. You can sign the petition here or view the petition here.
Quincy’s Seattle book signing event will be taking place tomorrow (Friday), February 27th 2009, 7:00 PM at Garfield High School. Quincy will be signing copies of his new book, The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey and Passions. The book signing will take place at the Quincy Jones Performing Arts Center in Garfield High School, located at 400 23rd Avenue Seattle, WA 98122.Moderating the Seattle book signing will be Carver Gayton, who like Quincy, is also a Garfield High School alumni. Carver Gayton is also a prominent figure in his home state of Washington where he is the former Executive Director of the Northwest African American Museum, Washington state employment-security commissioner, Boeing executive, FBI agent, and longtime educator.
Talented young artists have always had a special place in Quincy’s heart. Whether it was a teenage Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson or Whitney Houston, that performer’s emergence has been marked by an extraordinary journey. Quincy has discovered a new artist who has the “potential to be one of the most prolific jazz pianists of the 21st century”, and his name is Alfredo Rodriguez.
Quincy first met Alfredo several years ago at the Montruex Jazz Festival where Alfredo was performing as a visiting musician from Cuba. Quincy recalls how he “was truly mesmerized by his deft talent, and knew immediately that [he] wanted to work with him.” But Alfredo’s status as a Cuban national made the prospects for a collaboration less than slim to none. Quincy, being a lifelong optimist, kept in touch and exchanged e-mails. Through a tumultuous journey, Alfredo’s courage and the goodwill of many friends along the way, Alfredo miraculously arrived in Los Angeles last month to pursue his dreams. Quincy hopes to share Alfredo Rodriguez with the world. Today, Quincy introduced Alfredo at the Playboy Jazz Festival Press Conference for his upcoming performance at the Playboy Jazz Festival, which will be taking place on Sunday, June 14th at the Hollywood Bowl. To view Alfredo’s biography, upcoming shows, photos and videos, please visit Alfredo’s website, at www.alfredomusic.com.
We are pleased to announce that Quincy’s Seattle book signing event will be taking place this Friday, February 27th 2009, 7:00 PM at Garfield High School. Quincy is continuing to promote his acclaimed coffee table book, The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey and Passions. The book signing will take place at the Quincy Jones Performing Arts Center in Garfield High School, located at:
400 23rd Avenue
Seattle, WA 98122
Moderating the Seattle book signing will be Carver Gayton, who like Quincy, is also a Garfield High School alumni. Carver Gayton is also a prominent figure in his home state of Washington where he is the former Executive Director of the Northwest African American Museum, Washington state employment-security commissioner, Boeing executive, FBI agent, and longtime educator.
Quincy attended the 2nd Annual ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Luncheon in Beverly Hills, California on Thursday February 19, 2009. Other celebrities in attendance were Halle Berry, Queen Latifah, Samuel L. Jackson, Tajari Henson, Eva Marcille (pictured with Quincy), Kerry Washington and more. [Photo Credits: Getty Images]
In other news, the total signature count for the Secretary of The Arts position petition as of today is 235856 signatures and still needs your support! You can sign the petition here or view the petition here.
All About Jazz has reported that Legendary jazz saxophonist and NEA (National Endowment for the Arts) Jazz Master James Moody will headline the annual “Moody & Friends” Benefit Concert for jazz scholarships at Purchase College on March 30, 2009 at 7:30 PM at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill. Moody will be joined by an ensemble of renowned jazz musicians and legends, including Quincy-who is an honorary co-chair of the event. The concert supports the James Moody Scholarship Fund at Purchase College.
The James Moody Scholarship Fund aims to create opportunities for the next generation of jazz masters by providing financial assistance and visibility for distinguished and talented students whom can benefit the most from the scholarship. The direct goal of the scholarship is to provide access to quality higher education. [Photo credit: Andy Sternberg @ http://netzoo.net]
Quincy has joined forces with his son Quincy D. Jones III of QD3 Entertainment, Ambassador Andrew Young and John Hope Bryant of Operation HOPE in support of The 5 Million Kids Initiative. The 5 Million Kids Initiative, or 5MK is a national campaign geared to re-brand education in the minds and hearts of young people. The national high school drop out rate continues to increase as a real-life epidemic among todays youth. The 5 Million Kids Initiative aims to get “youth re-engaged in school and live with the personal dignity that comes with knowing that they CAN succeed in life.” Children have always been a focal point for Quincy’s charities and causes, making 5MK is especially meaningful to him. The 5 Million Kids Initiative website features a list of goals and objectives that best describe what 5MK is all about.
The 5 MILLION KIDS Initiative will teach 5 million kids, their parents and teachers how to get rich, legally through financial literacy; the language of money, free enterprise capitalism, and ownership.
The 5 MILLION KIDS Initiative will launch a 5% Movement, working to get the percentage of role models in our urban communities up to 5% or higher by placing a minimum of 25,000 volunteers in the classroom.
The 5 MILLION KIDS Initiative will partner with community based organizations and financial institutions to open Starter Savings Accounts for the youth.
The 5 MILLION KIDS Initiative will secure $50 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) for parents, teachers and adults.
The 5 MILLION KIDS Initiative will open 50,000 new bank accounts for the unbanked and under-banked using the proceeds of their EITC benefits.
The 5 MILLION KIDS Initiative will recruit 5,000 grassroots leaders
To make a difference with The 5 Million Kids Initiative, click here.
Quincy’s red carpet appearance at the 2009 GRAMMYs can be viewed on Youtube, courtesy of TV Guide. You can view the footage here or below.
Quincy is no stranger to the Grammys, and mentions during his interview on the red carpet that he attended the first Grammy awards ceremony back in 1958, “Yes, old habit-I think I was here in 1958, so this is the 51st year, you know? So its great to see the growth, that’s what’s beautiful.” Quincy received his first Grammy nominations in 1960, for Best Arrangement in “Let the Good Times Roll” by Ray Charles, and for Best Jazz Performance, Large Group in “The Great Wide World of Quincy Jones”. After Quincy’s first 6 nominations, he won his first Grammy in 1963, for Best Instrumental Arrangement for “I Can’t Stop Loving You” by Count Basie. To this day, Quincy has received the most nominations of any artist in history with 79 and the most Grammys of any living artist with 27.
Quincy is now concerned with “straightening out the record business.” The music industry has endured tough times since the advent of internet downloads. Artists new and old have been finding it difficult to make ends meet, even before the recent economic downturn. Quincy hopes that the Secretary of The Arts position will be able to offer artists more ways to support themselves. The total signature count for the Secretary of The Arts position petition as of today is 235073 signatures and still attracting press coverage around the world. You can sign the petition here or view the petition here.
Quincy held a book signing and interview on Thursday February 12th, at Borders of Westwood for the recent publication of his new coffee table book, The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey & Passions. Hundreds of fans came out to meet Quincy, take pictures, have their books signed, and listen in on a question-and-answer conducted by Geoff Boucher, writer for the The Los Angeles Times.
Quincy spoke about his most recent causes, especially his hope for the Secretary of The Arts cabinet position. The total signature count as of today is 233,459 signatures and still attracting press coverage around the world. You can sign the petition here or view the petition here. This has been a cause that has grown very dear to Quincy. “I have had that idea for a long time now,” Quincy said. ”It is just a question of us executing it. I think we need it now more than ever. I really do. There’s science, and then there’s the soul.”
We found this rare and surprising clip of Quincy and Herbie Hancock in 1983, having a freestyle session with a room full of intricate synthesizers. The clip, Herbie Hancock Jams With His Fairlight CMI, is available courtesy of youtube user, Froady. It is one of the most coy and interesting pieces we have seen with Quincy on Youtube. Herbie shows Quincy the features of his Fairlight CMI and its visual sequencing interface, as he is “loading a program” via computer touch screen and stylus pen. We hear Quincy mention that “the funk will prevail” as they throw in African-inspired rhythms into the mix. Maybe the reason we find the YouTube clip so special is because it shows two remarkable artists, casually having fun with new forms of musical experimentation, namely, the synthesizer. Quincy and Herbie have a good laugh after the interviewer mentions that the pair knew and “worked with each other for almost 20 years”-Quincy replies with, “Oh, right! My father used to take me to see him when I was a child.”
John Legend was recently recognized as one of 
Quincy attended the 2nd Annual ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Luncheon in Beverly Hills, California on Thursday February 19, 2009. Other celebrities in attendance were Halle Berry, Queen Latifah, Samuel L. Jackson, Tajari Henson, Eva Marcille (pictured with Quincy), Kerry Washington and more. [Photo Credits: Getty Images]
All About Jazz
