Quincy Jones Honored with Touching Tribute at 2025 Grammy Awards
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The 2025 Grammy Awards paid a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Quincy Jones on Sunday, February 2nd. The late music legend, who passed away in November 2024 at the age of 91, was celebrated with a star-studded performance at the event. Artists like Cynthia Erivo, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, Janelle Monáe, Lainey Wilson, and Jacob Collier took the stage to honour Jones and the resilient spirit of Los Angeles.
Before diving into their renditions of Jones’ timeless songs, Will Smith took the stage to introduce the tribute. Smith described Jones as a multi-talented musician who touched countless lives with his music and collaborations with legends like Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, and Frank Sinatra. He highlighted Jones’ journey from jazz to working with musical greats across various genres.
The tribute began with Cynthia Erivo and Herbie Hancock performing a soulful rendition of Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon.” Erivo’s emotive performance set the tone for the evening as the orchestra joined in, capturing the essence of Sinatra’s classic. Lainey Wilson and Jacob Collier also joined forces for a unique country version of Jones’ hit song “Let the Good Times Roll,” adding a fresh twist to the tribute.
As the tribute continued, Herbie Hancock and Stevie Wonder took the stage for a collaborative performance of “Blusette,” with Wonder showcasing his harmonica skills and Hancock on the piano. The medley transitioned seamlessly into a rendition of “We Are the World,” delivering a poignant message of unity and celebration of humanity.
Janelle Monáe closed out the tribute with an electrifying cover of Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough.” Embracing Jackson’s iconic energy and moves, Monáe mesmerised the audience with her performance. She paid homage to both Jones and Jackson, leaving a lasting impression on the audience with her dynamic stage presence.
The tribute also featured appearances and performances by Brad Paisley, John Legend, Sheryl Crow, St. Vincent, Brittany Howard, and others. The event, hosted by Trevor Noah at L.A.’s Crypto.com Arena, aimed to raise funds for relief efforts in Los Angeles following the recent wildfires that have devastated the region.
Reflecting on the significance of honouring Quincy Jones at the Grammys, executive producer Raj Kapoor emphasised the musical legacy that Jones has left behind. The tribute not only celebrated Jones’ contributions to the music industry but also served as a reminder of the power of music to heal and unite communities in challenging times.
In a statement, Recording Academy and MusiCares CEO Harvey Mason Jr. highlighted the importance of supporting wildfire relief efforts and recognising the bravery of first responders in Los Angeles. The Grammys dedicated this year’s show to raising funds for those affected by the fires, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the city.
As the music community came together to honour Quincy Jones, the 2025 Grammy Awards delivered a powerful and moving tribute that underscored the enduring impact of his music and legacy. The event not only celebrated Jones’ remarkable career but also served as a reminder of the unifying power of music in times of adversity.
The commemoration of Quincy Jones at the 2025 Grammys stands as a testament to his lasting influence on the world of music and his ability to touch hearts and souls through his extraordinary talent.