Latin GRAMMYs Advocacy Briefings: A Call To Action For Latin Music Creators

Renowned as an architect of modern music, Jones was a prolific conductor, composer, producer, arranger, musician, and activist who shaped American music and culture in extraordinary ways. With a career boasting collaborations with icons like Michael Jackson , Frank Sinatra , and Aretha Franklin , Jones achieved an astonishing 28 GRAMMY wins out of 81 nominations - securing his place among the most celebrated artists in GRAMMY history.

Beyond his unparalleled musical achievements, Jones leaves a lasting legacy as a champion for social justice and advocate for artists. His dedication to activism was sparked in 1955 after meeting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. , a moment he described as life-changing: "From then on, my life was never the same," Jones reflected in 2019. "Civil rights work and political involvement was no longer an activity to do on the side. It became an essential part of life and humanity." This encounter led him to support Dr. King's Operation Breadbasket and serve on the board for Rev. Jesse Jackson 's People United to Save Humanity (PUSH), firmly positioning Jones as a voice for equity and justice.

Jones' commitment to cultural preservation was equally transformative. In 1973, he co-founded the Institute for Black American Music to honor the contributions of Black culture to the American musical landscape. His vision for unity reached a global scale in 1985 with the production of "We Are the World," a humanitarian anthem performed by stars including Diana Ross , Bruce Springsteen , and Bob Dylan , with proceeds aiding African famine relief. The powerful collaboration went on to earn Record Of The Year at the 1986 GRAMMYs .

Read more: Black Sounds Beautiful: How Quincy Jones' Stratospheric Career Has Shaped And Celebrated Black Music

A tireless advocate for musicians, Jones was equally passionate about supporting music education. In 1991, he established the Quincy Jones Listen Up Foundation, aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty and violence by providing children access to education, technology, culture, and music. His dedication to community and creativity was celebrated in 1996 when he was named the MusiCares Person of the Year , honoring his artistic and philanthropic contributions.

Jones' legacy of advocacy extended to Capitol Hill, where he was honored as a 2007 GRAMMYs on the Hill alongside the late Senator Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and then-Representative (now Senator) Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.). Speaking to legislators, Jones emphasized the critical need for federal funding in music education: "The power of music to bring the world together for the betterness of mankind has been proven time and time again," he said. "What I believe is vital now to our country's soul is that we provide more and more funding for art education in our schools."

With the advent of streaming, Jones also advocated for fair compensation for artists. In his 2007 GRAMMYs on the Hill speech, he raised concerns about artists struggling in the streaming era: "The people that write music have to eat, they have to put their kids in school, and they have to take care of their families and so forth, and it is not right, I will never ever accept it."

Jones continued his mission for inclusivity and representation as the honorary chair of the Recording Academy's Black Music Collective , a role he took on in 2020 to advance Black voices and drive representation in the music industry. In 2023, Jones received the inaugural PEACE Through Music Award from the Recording Academy and the U.S. Department of State, recognizing his role in global cultural diplomacy. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. .

Read more: Mogul Moment: How Quincy Jones Became An Architect Of Black Music

Harvey Mason Jr. expressed the immense loss felt by the music community: "We are all absolutely heartbroken by the passing of the incomparable Quincy Jones. A master of many crafts, Quincy's artistry and humanity impacted artists, music creators, and audiences around the world and will continue to do so. He has been recognized by his Recording Academy peers with an extraordinary 28 GRAMMY awards, standing among the most celebrated recipients in GRAMMY history. Quincy leaves behind an unmatched legacy and will always be remembered for the joy he and his music brought to the world."

Quincy Jones' influence, from his legendary music career to his relentless advocacy, has shaped the industry and inspired countless artists. His legacy as both a creator and advocate will resonate for generations to come, marking him as a powerful force for change and a beloved icon in the world of music.

Read more: Remembering Quincy Jones: Musical Pioneer, Inspiration, Activist & Renaissance Man

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