Mark Ronson’s Heartfelt Goodbye
Mark Ronson shared his thoughts on Quincy Jones, a legendary producer who passed away recently.
"Losing Quincy is like a black hole swallowing part of the musical universe," Mark expressed. "But his work will live forever, as will his lessons."
Ronson felt a strong bond with Jones after reading his autobiography, Q, where he admired Jones’ decision to leave behind success with Ray Charles to study music theory in Paris.
"Imagine reaching the pinnacle of success, especially as a young Black musician in segregated 1950s America, and saying thanks, but Iām starting over for the sake of chords and harmony," Ronson mused. "I fantasize about having that kind of courage."
Fans often think about the courage it takes to start anew, just like Quincy did.
Mark admits it’s tough to measure up to Quincy. He calls him an impossible standard, someone who set the bar so high that others can only dream of reaching it.
While engaged to Rashida, Quincy’s daughter, Mark spent time with the music icon. Their bond still remains strong today.
During those years, Quincy would send kind notes to Mark. He cherished Amy Winehouse and enjoyed their hangouts at the Montreux Jazz Festival, his favorite spot. Seeing Quincy there, smiling and watching, was both scary and heartwarming.
"The greatest producer and arranger of all time, watching your every move, was utterly terrifying. And yet he only radiated generosity," Mark added. "He had already achieved the unimaginable."
Quincy passed away on November 3 in Los Angeles. Many stars, like Stevie Wonder and The Weeknd, paid tribute to him.
Rashida, his daughter, remembered him fondly on Instagram, calling him a loving "icon."
"My dad was nocturnal his whole adult life," she shared. "When I was little, I would wake up in the middle of the night to search for him." She recalled how safe she felt in his arms while he composed music late into the night.
