Listen Up: The Lives of Quincy Jones

Dec 4, 2023 | Music, Videos

The extraordinary life of Quincy Jones, one of the most influential and talented figures in 20th century music, is explored in this captivating documentary tribute. Assembling an unprecedented array of musical luminaries from Ray Charles to Aretha Franklin and Michael Jackson, the film offers a fascinating journey through the life of this remarkable man.

Beginning with a look at his childhood home in Chicago, Quincy Jones recounts both touching and painful memories — from his mother’s mental illness to his own marital troubles and health issues — with rare candor and honesty. He reflects on the career that brought him into contact with some of the greatest names in music history — Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Dizzy Gillespie — as well as Big Daddy Kane and Flavor Flav.

Interspersed with conversations from political leaders, filmmakers and other important figures, this offbeat patchwork-of-a-film provides an intimate look at the life of one of America’s greatest living legends. Raised by a single mother against a backdrop of extreme poverty during The Great Migration, Jones built a musical career that would span seven decades and lead him to collaborate with icons like Ray Charles and Michael Jackson. Even now in his 90s he remains an inspiration for aspiring musicians all over the world; watching this documentary is a powerful reminder of why that is so.

With its candid interviews paired with archival footage, Quincy is an eye-opening exploration into one man’s amazing life story. It’s essential viewing for anyone interested in music history or wanting to be inspired by this giant figure; viewers will walk away feeling humbled by Jones’ impressive accomplishments and motivated to make their own mark on the world!

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David B