Will Smith has hailed Quincy Jones as a “mentor” to him.
The legendary record producer passed away on Nov. 3, at 91. Smith has taken to social media to pay a glowing tribute to Jones.
“Quincy Jones is the true definition of a Mentor, a Father and a Friend. He pointed me toward the greatest parts of myself. He defended me. He nurtured me. He encouraged me. He inspired me. He checked me when he needed to. He let me use his wings until mine were strong enough to fly,” Smith — who landed his starring role on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” his hit TV sitcom with Jones’ help — wrote on Instagram.
Smith’s post also featured a throwback photo of himself and Jones together during his “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” era.
Jones worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry during his career, including Smith, Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles.
The producer’s death was announced in a statement by his family.
“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” their statement said. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.
“He is truly one of a kind and we will miss him dearly; we take comfort and immense pride in knowing that the love and joy, that were the essence of his being, was shared with the world through all that he created,” the statement continued. “Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.”
