Quincy Jones expressed his affection for his seven children in his last Instagram post. The renowned musician passed away at the age of 91 on Sunday, November 3, at his Los Angeles home, as confirmed by his publicist, Arnold Robinson. The Associated Press was the first to report on this tragic news.
In the days leading up to his passing, Jones posted a heartfelt message for his daughter Martina, who celebrated her 58th birthday on November 1. The iconic record producer, whose career lasted more than 70 years, shared a joyful photo of himself with Martina, smiling for the camera.
In the caption, he wrote, “Happy Birthday to my Tina Beena @martinafotos1!! 🎉. So proud to be yo papa! Big hug, I love you eternally 🫶🏾💜.” Martina is one of Jones’s children with his ex-wife, Swedish model Ulla Andersson, alongside their son Quincy III, who is 55.
Additionally, Jones is the father of Jolie, 69, whom he shares with his first wife, Jeri Caldwell; Rachel, 59, with dancer Carol Reynolds; Kidada, 50; and Rashida, 48, both from his marriage to actress Peggy Lipton; as well as Kenya, 31, whom he welcomed with German actress and model Nastassja Kinski.
He passed away surrounded by family, who shared with PEOPLE: “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing.” They also expressed, “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”
His legacy continues with his grandchildren: Isaiah Jones Koenig, Quincy Renzo Delight Jones IV, and Nea Jones. In terms of fatherhood, Quincy drew inspiration from his own father, Quincy Delight Jones, Sr.
During a Facebook post for Father’s Day in 2018, the 28-time Grammy winner reflected, “Never underestimate your role in your kid’s lives… I learned that a bit later in my life, but I’m so glad I finally figured it out because being a father is hands down one of the greatest blessings!!”
He expressed gratitude toward his father for the hard work he put in to provide for their family during the Great Depression, stating, “I’m telling y’awl, it’s up to you to create the type of relationship you want to have with your kid, & it’s never too late to start!”
Born on March 14, 1933, Jones first gained fame as a trumpet player in bands for jazz legends like Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie.
As a producer and arranger, he played a crucial role in the success of many music legends, including Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, Paul Simon, and Aretha Franklin. Among his numerous accolades, he produced Jackson’s iconic 1982 hit “Beat It,” featuring the late Eddie Van Halen on the legendary guitar solo.