Quincy Jones is celebrated as one of the most influential music producers, with a career spanning multiple decades and genres.
Jones’ productions continue to inspire musicians across genres, reflecting his unmatched versatility and ability to elevate an artist’s vision to new heights.
With the announcement of the music titan’s death, there’s space for reflection, ergo this list of 11 of Jones’ most iconic productions, along with their popularity and impact.
Thriller – Michael Jackson (1982)
Album: Thriller
Thriller is the best-selling album of all time, and Jones’ production transformed pop music. The title track’s cinematic sound and collaboration with Vincent Price became iconic, and the accompanying music video set a new standard for storytelling in music videos.
Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson. (Photo: AP)
Billie Jean – Michael Jackson (1982)
Album: Thriller
Another banger from the Thriller album is Billie Jean. Known for its unforgettable bass line and complex production, Billie Jean became a cultural milestone. Jones helped Jackson craft a distinctive sound that fused pop, R&B, and funk, with a unique beat that resonated globally.
We Are the World – USA for Africa (1985)
Album: We Are the World
Co-produced by Jones and written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, this anthem brought together some of the biggest names in music to raise funds for African famine relief. The song became a symbol of unity and humanitarian effort, topping charts worldwide.
Off the Wall (1979) – Michael Jackson
Album: Off the Wall
This was Jones’ first collaboration with Michael Jackson. The disco-funk classic solidified Jackson’s status as a pop superstar. Off the Wall marked Jackson’s transition from child star to adult icon, blending elements of pop, funk, and disco.
It’s My Party (1963) – Lesley Gore
Album: I’ll Cry If I Want To
This was one of Jones’ earliest successes and launched his reputation as a hitmaker. The catchy, angst-filled tune about teenage heartbreak became a No 1 hit and an anthem for young audiences in the early ’60s.
Human Nature (1982) – Michael Jackson
Album: Thriller
This tender, synth-driven ballad showed Jackson’s softer side and underscored Jones’ talent for creating emotional depth. The song’s complex arrangement and atmospheric sound set it apart as a classic love song.
Give Me the Night (1980) – George Benson
Album: Give Me the Night
Jones produced this smooth jazz-funk track, which became Benson’s biggest hit and helped popularise the jazz-pop fusion genre. The track’s sophisticated groove and Benson’s guitar solos captured a wide audience.
PYT (Pretty Young Thing) (1982) – Michael Jackson
Album: Thriller
With a catchy beat and playful lyrics, PYT showed off Jackson’s vocal versatility and Jones’ ability to create danceable and radio-friendly hits. It remains one of Jackson’s fan favourites for its infectious rhythm.
Stuff Like That (1978) – Quincy Jones ft Chaka Khan and Ashford & Simpson
Album: Sounds… and Stuff Like That!!
Jones’ project, featuring heavyweights like Chaka Khan, demonstrated his ability to blend funk, jazz, and R&B. The song exemplified Jones’ vision of cross-genre collaboration and became a staple on dance floors.
You Don’t Own Me (1963) – Lesley Gore
Album: I’ll Cry If I Want To
This feminist anthem was groundbreaking for its era, with Jones’ production giving it a haunting and empowering tone. Its influence can still be heard in music today, and it remains one of Gore’s most enduring songs.
Fly Me to the Moon (1964) – Frank Sinatra
Album: It Might as Well Be Swing
While Jones arranged and conducted this song (produced by Sonny Burke), it remains one of his most celebrated works with Sinatra. This rendition was notably associated with the Apollo space program and became one of Sinatra’s signature songs.
