Music Legends Unite to Honour Quincy Jones with 'We Are the World' Performance

At the 2025 Grammy Awards, the music community gathered to pay tribute to the late Quincy Jones, who passed away in November 2024 at the age of 91. The homage was led by the legendary Stevie Wonder, who delivered a poignant rendition of 'We Are the World', a song co-produced by Jones in 1985 to aid famine relief in Africa.

A Star-Studded Tribute

The tribute commenced with an introduction by actor and musician Will Smith, who highlighted Jones's monumental contributions to the music industry. Smith, whose career was significantly influenced by Jones through the production of 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air', remarked on the profound impact Jones had on countless artists.

Following Smith's introduction, the stage illuminated with performances by a constellation of artists:

Cynthia Erivo: The acclaimed singer and actress delivered a soulful rendition of 'Fly Me to the Moon', a song famously arranged by Jones for Frank Sinatra.

Jacob Collier and Lainey Wilson: The duo brought energy to the stage with 'Let the Good Times Roll', showcasing Jones's versatility in jazz and blues.

Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock: The legendary musicians collaborated on 'Blusette', with Wonder's harmonica harmonising seamlessly with Hancock's piano melodies.

Janelle Monáe: The dynamic performer concluded the segment with an electrifying version of Michael Jackson's 'Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough', a track that benefited from Jones's iconic production.

'We Are the World' Finale

The highlight of the tribute was Stevie Wonder's heartfelt performance of 'We Are the World'. Joined by Herbie Hancock on piano, Wonder's emotive delivery resonated with the audience, many of whom were visibly moved. The song, originally featuring a myriad of artists brought together by Jones, served as a fitting reminder of his legacy of unity and humanitarianism.

Quincy Jones's Enduring Legacy

Quincy Jones's career spanned over seven decades, during which he garnered 80 Grammy nominations and 28 awards, solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures in music history. His work encompassed a vast array of genres, from jazz and blues to pop and hip-hop, and his collaborations included legends such as Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Ray Charles.

Jones's production of Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' remains the best-selling album of all time, and his ability to bridge diverse musical styles has left an indelible mark on the industry. Beyond his musical achievements, Jones was a fervent advocate for social justice, using his platform to address issues such as racial equality and humanitarian aid.

A Night of Reflection and Celebration

The 2025 Grammy Awards, held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, served not only as a celebration of contemporary musical achievements but also as a moment of reflection on the contributions of artists like Quincy Jones. The evening was marked by tributes, collaborations, and performances that highlighted the unifying power of music.

As the ceremony concluded, attendees were reminded of the profound impact that individuals like Jones have had on the cultural and social fabric of society. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists to push boundaries and use their voices for positive change.

The tribute to Quincy Jones at the 2025 Grammy Awards was a testament to his unparalleled influence on the music industry. Through heartfelt performances and shared memories, the ceremony honoured a man whose life's work transcended music, leaving an enduring legacy of artistry, compassion, and unity.