- Will Smith tears up during emotional Quincy Jones Grammys tribute
- Wicked star Cynthia Erivo also took part in the medley
- Jones passed away in November 2024 aged 91
Will Smith led a special Quincy Jones Grammys tribute featuring a range of stars performing a medley of the icon’s greatest hits.
Smith made one of his most public appearances since the now-infamous moment where he attacked comedian Chris Rock during the 2022 Oscars.
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He shared some candid insight into his relationship with Jones in an emotional speech that preceded a musical medley featuring Cynthia Erivo, Stevie Wonder and Janelle Monaé
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Musician and pioneering producer Jones passed away on 4 November 2024 age 91. The news shone a spotlight onto his lengthy and iconic musical career. It was one that spanned three Michael Jackson bestselling records and masterminding the hit charity song We Are The World.
What did Will Smith say during his Quincy Jones Grammys tribute?
Smith began the tribute by calling Jones “one of the most influential and groundbreaking figures of our times.”
He continued, telling fans how Jones was likely responsible for his own rise to fame. “You probably wouldn’t even know who Will Smith was if it wasn’t for Quincy Jones,” explained Smith. “He made so many greats across multiple genres sound even better.”
Music quickly followed with Wicked star Erivo taking on a version of Frank Sinatra’s Jones-produced Fly Me To The Moon. Let The Good Times Roll arrived next led by Lainey Wilson, before Stevie Wonder took to the stage to introduce the hit track We Are The World.
“Quincy was always there to help,” explained Wonder. “Like when he produced this next anthem, written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie. This song fed millions of people in Ethiopia.”
“Take care of these people”
Afterwards, Smith returned to the stage to tell the audience about the lasting legacy Jones had on his career. As a producer on Smith’s hit series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Smith revealed the advice the late musician offered him.
“‘It is your job to take care of these people,’” said Smith, “and I’ve done everything in my career to try to live up to Quincy’s demand.”
The tribute was concluded by Monaé who delivered a rendition of Jackson’s Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough.
