The music world is mourning the loss of Quincy Jones, legendary producer and multi-genre pioneer, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 91. Known for an illustrious career collaborating with artists like Ray Charles, Billie Holiday, and producing Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Jones’ influence reverberated across decades and genres.
Among those paying tribute to him are New Order and former bassist Peter Hook, who shared memories of Jones’ instrumental role in their American breakthrough. As the founder of Qwest Records, Jones signed New Order in the U.S. and worked on a remix of their iconic track Blue Monday in 1988, which climbed to Number Three in the UK charts, surpassing the original’s peak.
Hook took to social media, reminiscing about the kindness and hospitality Jones extended to the band. “When he signed us to his label, he made us feel so welcome – inviting us to dinner at his home every time we were in town. He made us big in America. He was so humble and sweet that you immediately fell in love with him,” Hook shared, adding that Jones continued to send him Christmas and birthday cards, a gesture that spoke to his genuine warmth.
The band also expressed their sorrow on Instagram, posting: “Very sorry to hear about the passing of our old label boss and collaborator, Quincy Jones…He was a true legend!” Accompanying the post, New Order shared a clip of Jones discussing the band, expressing his admiration for their skillful fusion of punk and dance influences.
Following Quincy Jones’ passing, fans have been revisiting some of his most memorable and bold statements. Among them is his candid remark that The Beatles were “the worst musicians in the world.” He also shared a striking memory involving U2’s Bono, recalling how he was invited to stay at Bono's castle in Ireland, a gesture Jones linked to his experience with racism in the country.
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