And the winner is …
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Music Aid Northwest is thrilled to announce Quincy Jones as the winner of the 2025 Washington Music Icon Award.
Quincy Delight Jones Jr. was a multitalented music titan whose vast legacy ranges from producing Michael Jackson’s historic “Thriller” album to writing prize-winning film and television scores and collaborating with Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin and hundreds of other recording artists.
He began his music journey right here in Seattle. As a student at Garfield High School from 1947 to 1950, Quincy Jones made a profound impact on the school’s music and arts programs. “While we mourn his passing, Jones’ impact on Garfield, SPS, and the broader community will continue to inspire future generations of musicians, artists, and leaders. His influence, both as a groundbreaking artist and a beloved member of our community, will never be forgotten,” according to the Seattle Public Schools website.
Quincy Jones garnered 80 Grammy nominations and 28 wins over the course of his career. He also earned an Emmy Award for scoring the 1977 limited series Roots. He Produced “We Are The World,” the 8th bestselling single of all time which raised $55 million for hunger relief. In 2013 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and cemented his place as a global music icon.
As a movie and TV producer, his most successful projects were the 1985 film The Color Purple—directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Danny Glover—as well as the 1990s television series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, starring Will Smith. The Color Purple was nominated for Best Picture at the 58th Academy Awards. Quincy Jones is one of only 21 EGOT members winning Emmys, Grammys an Oscar and a Tony award.
Seattle City Council member Joy Hollingsworth remembered Jones as an inspiration. “Mr. Quincy Jones changed the game in music, blending genres and breaking boundaries with every beat,” Hollingsworth said. “His influence runs deep, shaping sounds and inspiring generations. He gave us gifts that will last forever.”