Stop. Its the one concept Quincy Jones steers clear of while reflecting on his storied career on the eve of his milestone 80th birthday on March 14 (today). In fact, it’s business as usual for the musician, songwriter, arranger, producer, composer and humanitarian who, in his words, just keeps rolling.
And that rolling along entails a growing slate of upcoming projects. Inspired by the success of his Global Gumbo All-Stars group of international artists, Jones has started a management consulting business with a roster of artists to watch — from jazz-pop singer Nikki Yanofsky to Asian girl group Blush.
And lets not forget the series of 80th-birthday celebrations that kick off in Las Vegas on April 14 with longtime friend/actor Michael Caine and a stellar lists of friends and performers.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has chosen this milestone year to induct Jones at its annual event on April 18.
The Playboy Jazz Festival at the Hollywood Bowl (June 15-16) will include a birthday salute to Jones by the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra with special guests Patti Austin and Hubert Laws. Jones will continue his celebration July 21 in Montreux, Switzerland, at the Montreux Jazz Festival, where hell also pay tribute to longtime friend and festival founder Claude Nobs, who died in January. Then its on to another event with Caine on July 24 at Londons Royal Opera House, followed by celebrations July 31 and Aug. 1 in Tokyo.
Read more: Billboard
