Quincy Jones, a revered arranger and composer whose work transcended musical genres, passed away on Nov. 3. He was 91.
Known for producing Michael Jackson’s landmark albums “Thriller” and “Bad,” Jones’ career far exceeded even those iconic works.
Jones transformed genres, introduced new styles, and championed Black artistry in a largely segregated industry. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted Jones in 2013, calling him a “Jack of All Trades” while noting that he “excelled at every role he took on.” His presence shaped countless albums, film scores, and even social movements — making him a bridge between jazz, R&B, pop, and hip hop and between Black and white audiences.
Jones began as a jazz trumpeter, arranging for bands like Count Basie’s and becoming a respected composer in his own right. His film and television scores displayed extraordinary range, mixing classical, jazz, funk, and Afro-Cuban influences.
Gregory Porter
Gregory Porter celebrated his 53rd birthday on Nov. 4. The Grammy-winning jazz icon with a rich baritone voice continues to wow crowds worldwide. The former football player suffered a shoulder injury that eventually led him to jazz. His 2010 debut album, “Water,” and album “Liquid Spirit” continue to break streaming records, proving jazz is indeed alive and well.
Others from the world of jazz celebrating November birthdays include Frank Kimbrough, Kurt Elling, Phil Woods, Rudy Van Gelder, Herb Geller, Ernest Dawkins, and Lou Donaldson, who is 98.
Christian Sands
Jazz pianist Christian Sands has a new album out titled “Embracing Dawn.” The album features collaborations with bassist Yasushi Nakamura, drummer Ryan Sands, guitarist Marvin Sewell, vibraphonist Warren Wolf, and harmonica player Gregoire Maret.
Listeners can expect to hear everything from gospel and acoustic jazz-rock to mid-tempo swing and neo and alternative soul. Sands’ record label, Mack Avenue, describes the album “as a cinematic narration of healing and triumph, reflecting Sands’ personal experience while offering a guide for anyone who has experienced loss of any kind.”
For more information, visit www.mackavenue.com.
Meshell Ndegeocello
Grammy winner Meshell Ndegeocello “Live at The Walker Art Center” on Dec. 7 will feature music from her latest album, “No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin.” This musical performance is the latest evolution of Ndegeocello’s study of writer and activist James Baldwin.
For ticket information, visit www.dakotacooks.com.
Robin James welcomes reader responses to rjames@spokesman-recorder.