Guided by Q: How Quincy Jones Shaped My Path in Music

I was about 12 or 13, hanging out at my grandmother’s house—just another quiet afternoon in a home where the rules were strict, and anything "worldly" was off-limits. My grandmother, a devout churchgoer, had a way of keeping things simple and sacred, which left me plenty of time to explore. That day, tucked away in the back room, I stumbled on something unexpected: an old crate of records.

They weren’t hers—that much was clear. Maybe one of my uncles or cousins had left them behind. Whoever it was, they gave me a gift I didn’t even know I needed. Beside the crate sat an old record player, the kind of tech I’d only heard about. Naturally, I was curious. I started flipping through the records, figuring out how to set the needle and get the music playing. That first crackle through the speakers? Pure magic. I jumped from record to record, letting each one play for a few seconds before moving on. And then, I found it.

Michael Jackson’s Off the Wall.

I’d seen MJ before, but this was different. This was young Michael—raw, energetic, and stepping into his own. I dropped the needle, sat back, and braced myself.

The music hit, and it was like nothing I’d ever experienced. The sound pulled me in—voices that felt like they were from another realm, grooves so tight they felt alive, and melodies that tied it all together. It wasn’t just a song; it was a portal. It felt like I was heading somewhere familiar, then took a sharp turn and landed in a world where rhythm, funk, and soul ruled everything.

This wasn’t the heavenly music I was used to hearing in church, but it was divine in its own way. It was transcendent. It felt like I’d climbed aboard a cosmic vehicle—something not bound by the usual rules of music. Something I can only describe as the Mothaship. When the song ended, I needed answers. I flipped the album over and scoured the credits. One name kept popping up: Quincy Jones. This man wasn’t just involved—he was everywhere on this record. And as I read more, I realized he was the force behind Thriller, Bad, and so much more. At 13, I didn’t fully understand what a producer did, but I knew Quincy Jones was someone I wanted to learn from.

The Blueprint: Quincy’s Wisdom in My Journey

Years later, as I started my own music career, Quincy Jones became more than an inspiration—he became a guiding light. His philosophies shaped how I approach music, relationships, and the business itself. These principles didn’t just teach me how to create; they taught me how to lead.

Here are the lessons from Quincy that have stayed with me, shaping everything I do:

1. “You make your mistakes to learn how to get to the good stuff.”Mistakes are inevitable, but they’re also where the magic happens. Early in my career, I made plenty of them, especially in artist development. But every misstep sharpened my approach and brought me closer to mastering my craft.

2. “Ego is just an overdressed insecurity.”The music industry loves its egos, but Quincy taught me to focus on the work, not the spotlight. Staying grounded has helped me build real, authentic connections—with artists, collaborators, and myself.

3. “Excellence isn’t an act, it’s a habit.”This isn’t just a quote; it’s my work ethic. Whether it’s a studio session or a business meeting, I show up prepared. Excellence isn’t about one-off moments—it’s about consistency.

4. “There’s nothing in the world worse than having an opportunity that you’re not prepared for.”This one hits home. In this industry, you can’t afford to fumble opportunities. Whether I’m in the studio or pitching ideas, preparation is my edge.

5. “Greatness occurs when your children love you, when your critics respect you, and when you have peace of mind.”This reminds me that success isn’t just about accolades. It’s about balance—between family, work, and staying true to yourself.

6. “The process is the most beautiful part.”Music isn’t just about the final product; it’s about the journey. Every late night, every tweak, every conversation—it’s all part of the magic.

7. “You cannot get an A if you’re afraid of getting an F.”Taking risks is part of the game. It’s how you create something unforgettable.

8. “If architecture is frozen music, then music must be liquid architecture.”This one reshaped how I think about production. Every song I create is like a building, with layers and structure that hold it all together.

9. “Imagine what a harmonious world it could be if every single person, both young and old, shared a little of what he is good at doing.”Quincy’s words remind me why I mentor young artists. Sharing knowledge isn’t just important—it’s necessary.

10. “Melody is king, and don’t you ever forget it.”At the heart of every song is its melody. Quincy’s words keep me focused on what matters most—crafting music that resonates.

    
    

Thank You, Q

That day in my grandmother’s house changed everything. Quincy Jones showed me that music wasn’t just sound—it was a universe, a way to connect, create, and inspire. His lessons have become the foundation of my career, guiding me as I carve my own path in this industry.

So, thank you, “The Dude.” Wishing you a smooth ride on the Mothaship as you journey to that funky, soulful dimension you’ve always shown us was possible. You gave me a glimpse all those years ago, and I’m forever grateful.