Quincy Jones, a outstanding figure in the music and entertainment industry, died peacefully on Sunday at his home in Bel Air, California, surrounded by family members. He was 91 years old.

“Tonight, it is with full but broken hearts that we must share the news of the death of our father and brother Quincy Jones,” Arnold Robinson, publicist for the 28-time Grammy winner, said in an announcement. “And while this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the wonderful life he lived and know there will never be another like him.”

Born on March 14, 1933 in Chicago, Quincy Delight Jones was raised in a turbulent environment marked by the Great Depression and his mother’s mental illness. At the age of 11, discovering a piano at a neighborhood recreation center in Bremerton, Washington became the pivotal moment that modified his life from petty crime to a profession in music. He eventually mastered the trumpet and at the age of 14 was performing in jazz clubs with a young Ray Charles, which allowed him to showcase his limitless talent and set the stage for a unprecedented profession.

Jones’ journey began in earnest when he played trumpet in Lionel Hampton’s band at age 19, and continued as he collaborated with jazz legends equivalent to Dizzy Gillespie. In the Sixties, he began pursuing film scores, earning three Academy Award nominations in 1968 and 1969 for his work on , and , breaking barriers as one of the first black composers in Hollywood. His groundbreaking role as the first black musical director of the 1971 Academy Awards cemented his pioneering status.

Despite serious health problems in the Nineteen Seventies, including two life-threatening brain aneurysms that left him unable to play the trumpet, Jones remained undeterred. He then composed iconic themes for and Emmy Award-winning movies.

Most notably, Quincy’s profession peaked in the Eighties when he teamed up with Michael Jackson, producing the movies , and . itself secured eight Grammy Awards and became a cultural touchstone that transformed the music industry. In 1985, Jones organized and produced the all-star film “We Are the World,” which raised thousands and thousands for African famine relief and won three Grammy Awards. His work continued to influence the industry, from producing Sinatra to overseeing (*91*) Davis’ final album.

Known for his enduring versatility, Jones was the first African-American to carry an executive position at a significant record label, was a movie and television producer – directing such hits – and co-produced the 1985 and 2023 film versions of the film.

A loyal father, Jones’s personal life was full of complexities, including three marriages and seven children, amongst them actresses Kidada and Rashida Jones. The autobiography details his extraordinary journey from the gang-infested streets of Chicago to the pinnacle of global recognition, marked by each triumphs and challenges.

The iconic artist leaves behind an unparalleled legacy, combining music, film and television and inspiring future generations. His contributions to the arts and philanthropy proceed to resonate, highlighting the indelible mark left by a remarkable man whose story will remain a testament to resilience and innovation.

Happy Friday, people. As we enter November, the music scene is buzzing with fresh releases that can surely boost your playlists. From genre-mixing collaborations to introspective solo projects, this week’s lineup offers a various range of sounds to suit every listener’s taste.

Headlined by Tyler, Creator’s latest album, EARTHGANG returns with , and The Weeknd teams up with Anitta on “São Paulo,” combining their unique sounds right into a fascinating track. Kiana Ledé offers soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, while Pink Sweat$ serves up smooth single “Coffee.” Our list also includes music from Freddie Gibbs, IDK, Sheryl Lee Ralph and more

You can try today’s news roundup below.

Tyler, the Creator – “Chromacopy”

Tyler, the seventh studio album by the Creator, Chromacopyfeatures appearances by Lil Wayne, GloRilla, Sexxy Red and more. Listen to this HERE.

Flying Lotus – “Spirit Box”

Flying Lotus Gifts Ghost Boxan experimental journey through soundscapes that push the boundaries of electronic music. Hear this HERE.

Kiana Ledé – “Cut the Ties”

Kiana Ledé Cut the ties offers soulful melodies and honest lyrics, delving into the themes of affection and personal growth. The album showcases her vocal skills and emotional depth. Stream HERE.

Kalan.FrFr – “Everybody” (Remix)

Today, Kalan.FrFr releases a remix of “Everybody,” adding a fresh twist to his popular track with recent verses and an updated beat. Check it out HERE.

Jon Batiste – “5th Symphony in Congo Square”

Jon Batiste’s “5th Symphony in Congo Square” is a fusion of jazz and classical influences, paying homage to New Orleans’ wealthy musical heritage. Stream HERE.

IDK – “BRAWADO + INTiMO”

IDK BRAVADO + UNDERWEAR explores themes of identity and bravado, combining introspective lyrics with dynamic production. The project showcases his versatility as an artist. Stream HERE.

The Weeknd ft. Anitta – “São Paulo”

Today, The Weeknd teams up with Brazilian superstar Anitta on “São Paulo.” Listen to the brand new song HERE.

Sheryl Lee Ralph, Arcane, League of Legends – “Blood Sweat and Tears”

Sheryl Lee Ralph collaborates with Arcane and League of Legends on the empowering anthem “Blood Sweat & Tears.” Listen to this HERE.

Austin Millz and Jozzy – “I Need to Say More”

Austin Millz and Jozzy collaborate on the infectious “Need I Say More,” a track that mixes electronic beats with soulful vocals. Check it out HERE.

Pink Sweat$ – “Coffee”

This week, Pink Sweat$ presents the laid-back single “Coffee,” a romantic track that can appeal to audiences all over the world. Listen to this HERE.

EARTHGANG – “PERFECT FANTASY”

EARTHGANG is back with PERFECT FANTASYcombining hip-hop with soulful melodies, offering a fresh and dynamic listening experience. Check it out HERE.

Halloween is the perfect time of 12 months to advertise an icon. This 12 months, for instance, Beyoncé morphed into funk rock star Betty Davis and Coco Jones referenced Donna Summer’s album covers. And for the content creator Uche Moxamrecreation of the 1969 Diana Ross film.I’ll wash this guy out of my hair” on the duvet, the immediate answer was “yes.”

“I grew up listening to great artists: Whitney, Diana, Donna Summer, the list goes on,” Moxam tells ESSENCE. “Not only were they the powerhouse of their decade, but they also provided representation of beautiful, strong and talented black women who were rarely represented in the media at the time.”

For a protracted time, Moxam had been waiting for the suitable moment to rework into Diana Ross’s mountain of curls (as if released from a set of very large curlers) from the GIT Broadway special. However, probably the most iconic a part of the look was also probably the most difficult to create. “The biggest challenge was supposed to be the hair,” she says, contacting a hair stylist Alan Schober.

“Alana managed to arrange each bundle of hair individually and artistically to achieve the effect shown in Diana’s film,” he says. “I wanted the hair texture to be three-dimensional, not just using Photoshop or a black board.” Using a 65-inch cardboard as a base and more bundles of hair than she could count interwoven with Moxam’s real hair, Schober turned her costume right into a masterpiece.

“I focus on a natural look [for everyday beauty] but Halloween is truly a time to become someone else,” she says.

However, Uche Moxam’s makeup veered away from Ross’s neutral lip with glazed lips and cheeks sculpted with blush, becoming an icon in its own right. “I’ve been wanting to bring it to life for some time and this year I managed to do it.”