5 Iconic Musicians Who Worked With The Late Quincy Jones

Quincy Jones leaves behind an unmatched legacy of timeless music, innovation, and mentorship. While he hailed from Chicago, Jones's influence spanned every corner of the music world—including the Lone Star State. Here’s a list of Texas musicians who collaborated with Jones, reflecting the vast reach of his genius.

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1. Ray Charles – Greenville, Texas

When Ray Charles met Quincy Jones in the 1950s, it marked the start of a powerful musical partnership. Their collaboration, rooted in jazz, blues, and gospel, birthed genre-defining arrangements that showcased Charles's soulful vocals and Jones’s musical wizardry. Together, they shaped an era, leaving a lasting impact on American music.

2. Willie Nelson – Abbott, Texas

Country legend Willie Nelson joined forces with Jones in the all-star charity anthem "We Are the World" in 1985. Though their paths didn’t cross often, their combined talents for this iconic song brought awareness to global issues and helped raise millions in aid, showcasing the power of music for good.

3. Beyoncé – Houston, Texas

Beyoncé didn’t directly collaborate with Jones in the studio, but she joined his 2004 “We Are the Future” benefit concert, organized to support children affected by war. The event highlighted her as one of the next generation's powerful voices—a fitting tribute from Jones, whose legacy of talent-spotting is legendary.

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4. Snoop Dogg – Texas Resident

Although originally from California, Snoop Dogg now calls Texas home part-time and collaborated with Quincy Jones on Q: Soul Bossa Nostra in 2010. Snoop’s soulful swagger and love for funk, paired with Jones’s arrangements, created a unique tribute to Jones’s lifelong impact on music, blending hip-hop with timeless groove.

5. Steve Miller – Dallas, Texas

Best known for the Steve Miller Band, Dallas native Steve Miller intersected with Jones through their shared roles in music advocacy and charity. Although their projects were often benefit-driven rather than studio collaborations, Miller’s rock contributions blended with Jones’s mission to bring people together through music.

From jazz to hip-hop, Quincy Jones’s reach is felt across generations and genres. As we honor his legacy, it’s clear that his influence runs deep in the heart of Texas music, leaving an imprint that Texas artists will continue to celebrate.