The Motion Picture Academy’s Governors Awards became a heartfelt celebration of Quincy Jones’ immense cultural legacy. The late music producer, who passed away on 3 November from pancreatic cancer at age 91, was posthumously awarded an honorary Oscar. His daughter, Rashida Jones, and close friend Jamie Foxx delivered moving tributes during the Sunday evening ceremony on 17 November.
Rashida Jones: A Daughter’s Touching Tribute
Rashida Jones, accompanied by her siblings, accepted the award on behalf of her father. In an emotional moment, the actress and filmmaker read excerpts from a speech Quincy had been preparing before his passing.
“I want you to know that he is here, very much here,” she said. “His music has literally defined an entire century of culture, spanning genres: jazz, disco, film, pop, R&B, hip-hop. But the real thread through it all is that his music is infused with his love. That was his gift to us.”
Rashida also reflected on her father’s philosophy of living with love and purpose. “That was his real legacy: love. He loved life, and he often said, ‘Live every day like it’s your last, and one day you’ll be right.’ And you did, Dad. You did.”
Jamie Foxx: Honouring a Legend and Advocate
Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx paid tribute to Quincy Jones’ trailblazing contributions to cinema and music. Jones, a seven-time Oscar nominee, was recognised for his unparalleled creativity, which shaped films such as The Color Purple.
Foxx also highlighted Quincy’s dedication to advocacy, particularly for individuals with Down syndrome. The actor emotionally recounted the story of his late sister, DeOndra Dixon, who was born with the condition and became the first recipient of the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award.
“She inspired so much of his work and passion,” Foxx said. “For that, I’m forever grateful.”
A Legacy That Defined Generations
Quincy Jones’ influence spanned decades, genres, and mediums. From producing Michael Jackson’s Thriller to scoring some of Hollywood’s most iconic films, his work reshaped modern music and cinema.
His honorary Oscar cements his place not just in music history but in the broader cultural landscape, a fitting tribute to a man who truly lived with love and purpose.
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