Tunes Du Jour Presents Quincy Jones

Quincy Delight Jones Jr., affectionately known as “Q,” is a name that resonates across the vast landscape of music. Born on March 14, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, Quincy Jones has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His multifaceted career spans seven decades, and his contributions to music, film, and humanitarian causes are nothing short of legendary. Let’s delve into the life of this remarkable artist, exploring both his creative genius and his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

Quincy Jones’s musical journey began with the trumpet, but it soon expanded to embrace a universe of genres. From jazz to pop, from film scores to chart-topping hits, Jones’s versatility knows no bounds. He cut his teeth working with luminaries like Ray Charles and Dizzy Gillespie, honing his skills as an arranger and composer. His compositions, such as “Stockholm Sweetnin’” and “For Lena and Lennie,” showcased his innate ability to blend sophistication with soulful melodies.

However, it’s impossible to discuss Quincy Jones without mentioning his groundbreaking collaborations with Michael Jackson. As the producer of Jackson’s iconic albums—Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad—Jones elevated pop music to new heights. The pulsating basslines of “Billie Jean,” the electrifying energy of “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” and the haunting introspection of “Man in the Mirror” all bear his unmistakable imprint. And let’s not forget the global anthem “We Are the World,” which Jones orchestrated to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia—a testament to his unwavering commitment to humanity.

Beyond the studio, Quincy Jones’s heart beats for social causes. In the 1970s, he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Martin Luther King Jr. as a founding member of Jesse Jackson’s Operation PUSH. His belief in the transformative power of music led him to create the Quincy Jones Listen Up Foundation. Through this nonprofit, he connects underserved youth with technology and music education. From South Central Los Angeles to South Africa, Jones’s foundation builds bridges, providing instruments and broadening music curricula to include American jazz greats alongside European classics.

But his philanthropic endeavors extend beyond borders. In partnership with Emirati social entrepreneur Badr Jafar, Jones launched the Global Gumbo Group. Their charity single “Tomorrow/Bokra,” featuring Middle Eastern singers, raised funds for children’s charities. This No. 1 hit in the Middle East garnered over 7 million views on YouTube, proving that music can heal and uplift even in the most challenging times.

And let’s not forget Hurricane Katrina. Jones stepped in to save the homes and properties of elderly jazz musicians affected by the devastating storm. His magic touch—what some call the “Quincy dust”—transforms lives, one act of kindness at a time.

Quincy Jones, now in his 90s, remains an unstoppable force. Whether he’s conducting an orchestra, mentoring young artists, or advocating for social justice, his legacy reverberates across generations. As we listen to the soulful strains of “Soul Bossa Nova” or groove to “Razzamatazz,” let’s remember that behind every note lies a man who believes in the power of love, music, and compassion. Quincy Jones—the maestro, the philanthropist, and the eternal groove-maker—continues to inspire us all.

Q produced all of the recordings on today’s playlist except the ones performed by Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra and Big Maybelle; on those he’s credited as the arranger.

Follow Tunes Du Jour on Facebook

Follow Tunes Du Jour on Twitter

Follow me on Instagram

Tunes Du Jour Presents 1989

Although 1989 may not have been a groundbreaking year for popular music, it bestowed upon us an array of iconic hits spanning diverse genres. Take, for instance, The B-52’s infectious “Love Shack,” with its quirky lyrics and irresistible beat that whisked revelers away to a neon-lit haven of love and laughter. Meanwhile, Neneh Cherry’s “Buffalo Stance” effortlessly blended hip-hop beats and funk, showcasing Cherry’s distinct rap-singing style and exuding an aura of boldness and unapologetic confidence.

On a more introspective note, The Cure’s “Lovesong” captured the poignant ache of love’s longing through haunting melodies and Robert Smith’s plaintive vocals. In contrast, Paula Abdul’s “Straight Up” emerged as a pop gem, infusing catchy hooks with Abdul’s signature sassy charm. Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power” thundered onto the scene as a resounding anthem against social injustice, urging listeners to question authority and demand change.

Meanwhile, De La Soul’s “Me, Myself And I” provided a playful yet insightful commentary on self-identity and individuality, solidifying their status as pioneers of alternative rap. Pixies’ “Debaser” shattered musical conventions with its raw energy, while N.W.A’s “Express Yourself” defiantly resonated with those embracing authenticity. Enya’s “Orinoco Flow” whisked us away on Celtic winds, and Young M.C.’s “Bust A Move” had us grooving to its playful rap verses.

Then there were the soulful strains of Guns N’ Roses’ “Patience,” revealing a softer side to the rock rebels, and Madonna’s “Like a Prayer,” a fusion of pop sensibility with gospel-infused vocals that pushed boundaries. Fine Young Cannibals’ “She Drives Me Crazy” pulsated with infectious energy, blending pop, new wave, and soul, while Prince’s “Batdance” defied genres with its blend of funk, rock, and pop flamboyance. Meanwhile, Nirvana’s “About a Girl” hinted at the seismic shift the band would bring to the music industry.

Reflecting on the music of 1989, we’re reminded of its enduring legacy and profound impact on contemporary music. Each song in this playlist serves as a time capsule, transporting us to a moment when music had the power to unite, inspire, and ignite imaginations. So let’s press play and embark on a journey through the sonic landscape of 1989, where every note resonates with the magic of music.

Follow Tunes du Jour on Facebook

Follow Tunes du Jour on Twitter

Follow me on Instagram

Tunes Du Jour Presents 1972

1972. The Vietnam War raged on, Watergate loomed, and the social landscape shifted beneath our feet. Amidst this backdrop of upheaval, our ears tuned in to a soundtrack that transcended mere melodies—it pulsed with the countercultural spirit and the burgeoning individuality of an era.  Let us step back in time, dust off the record player, and explore the timeless tunes that wove themselves into the fabric of our lives—a kaleidoscope of genres and voices that defined a generation.

  • Al Green crooned “Let’s Stay Together,” his velvet voice weaving an unwavering plea for commitment.
  • Roberta Flack tenderly sang “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” etching raw vulnerability into our hearts.
  • Don McLean painted a poignant picture of a generation in transition with his epic “American Pie.”
  • Alice Cooper’s rebellious anthem “School’s Out” became the rallying cry for youth liberation, its raucous energy echoing through high school corridors.
  • Across the pond, T. Rex electrified listeners with glam rock swagger in “Bang a Gong (Get It On).”
  • Johnny Nash offered optimism with “I Can See Clearly Now,” a beacon of hope cutting through the haze.
  • Meanwhile, Elton John’s cosmic odyssey “Rocket Man” and David Bowie’s otherworldly anthem “Starman” transported us to distant galaxies, reflecting the era’s fascination with space exploration and introspection.
  • Jimmy Cliff addressed racial injustice and social struggles in “The Harder They Come.”
  • Big Star captured the bittersweet angst of adolescence in “Thirteen.”
  • The bluesy, swaggering classic “Tumbling Dice” by The Rolling Stones left an indelible marks on musical history.
  • And let’s not forget Elvis Presley, who still had magic to spare with “Burning Love.”

From the introspective musings of Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” to the raw energy of Led Zeppelin, each track on this playlist embodies the spirit of its time while transcending it—a symphony that continues to resonate across generations.

The music of 1972 continues to evoke nostalgia and stir emotions across generations. These iconic tunes remind us of the enduring legacy of artists who dared to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. So turn up the volume and let these timeless tunes whisk you back to celebrate the enduring beauty of music that transcends generations.

Follow Tunes du Jour on Facebook

Follow Tunes du Jour on Twitter

Follow me on Instagram

Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 1-16-24

“I only make records when I feel I have something to say. I’m not interested in releasing music just for the sake of selling something.“       – Sade Adu 

Sade’s last album came out in 2010. The album preceding that one came out in 2000. 

Sade Adu, lead singer and namesake of the band Sade, was born on this date in 1959. A handful of Sade’s best tunes are included on today’s playlist.

Follow Tunes du Jour on Facebook

Follow Tunes du Jour on Twitter

Follow me on Instagram

Tunes Du Jour Presents 1991

The year 1991 was a remarkable one for music, as it saw the emergence of genres, styles, and stars that would shape the musical landscape for years to come. Today’s playlist consists of thirty of the songs that defined 1991.

We’ve got slick pop hooks and hip-hop beats, soulful ballads and dancefloor anthems, synth pop and alt rock, industrial angst and Prince.

In late September of 1991, a trio from Seattle released an album that soon became a phenomenon that transcended music and defined a generation. Its first hit single inaugurated a new wave of alternative rock that would dominate the 90s. That song peaked on the pop charts the following year, so look for it when Tunes Du Jour Presents 1992.

For now, take a trip down memory lane and enjoy the musical smorgasbord that was 1991. Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more posts about music. 

Follow Tunes Du Jour on Facebook

Follow Tunes Du Jour on Twitter

Follow me on Instagram