Quincy Jones: A Legacy Through 15 Essential Songs That Shaped Music

Quincy Jones wasn’t just a producer. He was the music world’s favourite shapeshifter—flipping genres, shaping careers, and dropping hits like it was all a game.

From jazz to pop to anthems for change, Jones’ fingerprints are on the songs that make up music history, and they’re not going anywhere.

If you’re looking for more on his legacy and passing, check out the announcement of his passing here on Neon Music.

So, here’s the lineup. We’ve cherry-picked 15 songs that don’t just say “Quincy Jones” but shout it from every beat.

Each one’s a little story of its own—a mix of big hits, a few quirks, and enough groove to keep the legacy going strong.

Jazz Beginnings and Early Hits: Setting the Stage

Quincy’s start wasn’t in a studio; it was right in the guts of jazz, crafting tunes with legends.

“Moanin'” – Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers (1958)

Before the fame, Quincy was arranging for Art Blakey. This track, an instant jazz staple, introduced Quincy’s knack for bold arrangements in a genre that thrives on improvisation.

“Soul Bossa Nova” – Quincy Jones (1962)

Known from commercials, films, and Austin Powers, this tune’s upbeat bossa nova rhythm made it an enduring classic.

Although it wasn’t a major chart hit, “Soul Bossa Nova” became one of Quincy’s signature pieces.

The Sinatra Sessions: Making Magic with the Chairman

Moving from jazz clubs to working with Frank Sinatra was like getting called to the big leagues, and Quincy ran with it.

“Fly Me to the Moon” – Frank Sinatra (1964)

Arranged by Quincy, this version was taken to the literal moon when played by Apollo 11.

Sinatra’s rendition became a staple of his career, securing a timeless place in both pop and jazz history.

The Jackson Years: Pop Music Gets a Makeover

Quincy’s work with Michael Jackson didn’t just push the envelope; it tore it to pieces. He helped MJ go from pop star to phenomenon.

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

This was MJ’s first single from Off the Wall, peaking at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track earned Jackson a Grammy and became an anthem that’s still impossible not to dance to.

“Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson (1983)

That bassline? Unforgettable. “Billie Jean” topped charts worldwide, including the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks. It redefined pop and remains one of Jackson’s most iconic hits.

“Thriller” – Michael Jackson (1983)

The title track from the best-selling album of all time, “Thriller” hit #4 on the Billboard Hot 100. But this wasn’t just a song—it was a cultural event.

Quincy’s arrangement created a funky, eerie soundscape that’s still a Halloween staple.

“Bad” – Michael Jackson (1987)

This edgy anthem, with its catchy hooks, reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Quincy tapped into Jackson’s rebellious energy, creating a global hit that underscored MJ’s superstar status.

Social Movements and Musical Unity

Jones saw music as a call to action, bringing artists together to make history and support causes.

“We Are the World” – USA for Africa (1985)

With everyone from Stevie Wonder to Bruce Springsteen, Quincy created a humanitarian anthem that topped charts and raised over $63 million for African famine relief.

Expanding the Reach with R&B, Soul, and Iconic Anthems

Quincy didn’t stop at pop and jazz. He was busy crafting hits across genres, proving that great music didn’t need a label.

“It’s My Party” – Lesley Gore (1963)

Quincy’s first big pop hit, peaking at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was a rebellious teen anthem, proving Jones could produce outside of jazz.

“You Don’t Own Me” – Lesley Gore (1964)

This ballad of independence reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a feminist anthem, marking Quincy’s ability to bring out the artist’s raw voice.

“Ai No Corrida” – Quincy Jones (1981)

Blending pop with funk, this song hit #28 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a dance floor favorite, showing Quincy’s ability to make genre-blending magic.

“I’ll Be Good to You” – Brothers Johnson (1976)

Another Billboard R&B chart-topper, later re-recorded with Ray Charles and Chaka Khan. It’s soul, it’s smooth, and it’s pure Quincy.

Leaving a Lasting Mark: The Later Years and Everlasting Hits

Jones’s later years were no slow-down. His songs continued to resonate with fresh sounds, proving his longevity as a music genius.

“The Secret Garden” – Quincy Jones featuring Barry White, Al B. Sure!, James Ingram, and El DeBarge (1989)

This R&B symphony hit #1 on the Billboard R&B chart, featuring some of the biggest voices in soul. It’s smooth, seductive, and a classic example of Quincy’s genius.

“Just Once” – James Ingram (1981)