Quincy Jones's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 19, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Quincy Jones. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Quincy Jones is a highly acclaimed American record producer, composer, arranger, conductor, trumpeter, and bandleader with a career spanning seven decades. He's garnered significant recognition, including 28 Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Tony Award. Furthermore, he has been nominated for seven Academy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards, solidifying his impact and contribution to the music and entertainment industry.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1961: Vice-President of Mercury Records

In 1961, Quincy Jones was promoted to Vice-President of Mercury Records, becoming the first African American to hold that position.

1967: Nominated for Academy Award for Best Original Score

In 1967, Quincy Jones was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score for In Cold Blood, making him the first African American to be nominated twice in the same year.

1968: First Academy Award Nomination for Best Original Song

In 1968, Quincy Jones became the first African American to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "The Eyes of Love".

1977: Primetime Emmy Award for 'Roots'

In 1977, Quincy Jones won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Composition for a Series for the miniseries 'Roots'.

1982: Production of "Thriller"

In 1982, Quincy Jones produced Michael Jackson's album "Thriller", which became the highest-selling album of all time.

1992: Grammy Legend Award

In 1992, Quincy Jones received the Grammy Legend Award, acknowledging his significant impact on the music industry.

1995: Receives Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award

In 1995, Quincy Jones became the first African American to receive the academy's Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.

2001: Kennedy Center Honors

In 2001, Quincy Jones received the Kennedy Center Honors, celebrating his lifetime contributions to American culture.

February 10, 2008: Presents Grammy Award

On February 10, 2008, Quincy Jones joined Usher in presenting the Grammy Award for Album of the Year to Herbie Hancock.

2011: National Medal of the Arts

In 2011, Quincy Jones was awarded the National Medal of the Arts, recognizing his profound impact on the arts.

2014: Ordre des Arts et des Lettres

In 2014, Quincy Jones was honored with the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, a French award recognizing significant contributions to the arts.

February 28, 2016: Presents Oscar to Ennio Morricone

On February 28, 2016, Quincy Jones and Pharrell Williams presented Ennio Morricone with the Oscar for Best Original Score.

2016: Tony Award for 'The Color Purple' Revival

In 2016, Quincy Jones received a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical as a producer for the revival of 'The Color Purple'.

June 2024: Academy Honorary Award

In June 2024, Quincy Jones received the Academy Honorary Award, celebrating his extraordinary achievements in film.

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