Ballerific Music: Six R&B Classics You May Not Have Known Were Produced By Quincy Jones

Last week, the world lost Quincy Jones, one of the most versatile figures in the music industry, with a career spanning over seven decades.

Beginning as a jazz trumpeter and arranger in the 1950s, he quickly established himself as an immense talent, working with jazz greats like Lionel Hampton, Count Basie, and Dizzy Gillespie.  He would eventually branch out, blending genres from jazz and R&B to pop, funk, and classical which allowed him to break new ground, shaping the sound of American music.  Throughout his illustrious career, Jones began producing for some of the greatest acts in entertainment. As we continue to mourn the immense legacy of the icon, we celebrate five of our favorite hits that many people may not know were created by Jones.

Michael Jackson – “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” (1979)

Quincy Jones feat. Barry White, Al B. Sure!, and James Ingram – “The Secret Garden (Sweet Seduction Suite)” (1989)

Aretha Franklin – “Angel” (1973)

Donna Summer – “Protection” (1982)

Stevie Wonder – “Get It” (1988)

Earth, Wind & Fire – “If I Ever Lose This Heaven” (1974)