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Numerous artists and celebrities inspired by Quincy Jones have paid homage to the iconic musician in the hours after his death.
Will Smith took to Instagram on Monday morning, November 4, and posted a heartbreaking message. He said Jones came into his life as a "father" and "role model."
"Quincy Jones is the true definition of a Mentor, a Father and a Friend," Will said. "He pointed me toward the greatest parts of myself. He defended me. He nurtured me. He encouraged me. He inspired me. He checked me when he needed to. He let me use his wings until mine were strong enough to fly."
Jones' publicist Arnold Robinson announced the legendary songwriter, producer, arraigner, and publisher passed away on Sunday night at his home in Bel Air. He was 91. Jones was surrounded by loved ones in his final hours. A cause of death has not yet been revealed. The announcement also included a statement from the family.
“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the statement said. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”
"He is truly one of a kind and we will miss him dearly; we take comfort and immense pride in knowing that the love and joy, that were the essence of his being, was shared with the world through all that he created,” it continued. “Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.”
Soon after the news broke, more artists like LL COOL J, Victoria Monét, Ice-T, Cordae, David Guetta and Tyler, the Creator paid their respects to the legendary musician on social media. Monét called Jones one of her "biggest inspirations."
"💔💔💔💔💔 to one of my biggest inspirations!" she wrote on X. "Quincy I love you so much!!! Your legacy will live on forever and ever 😢 Heaven definitely got an upgrade with you."
See more tributes to the late Quincy Jones below. May he rest in peace.