Oprah Winfrey remembered the late Quincy Jones as “love lived out loud” at the Oscars on Sunday (03.03.25). The touching tribute moved many attendees to tears as Hollywood gathered to celebrate one of music and film’s greatest legends.
The 71-year-old broadcaster and her ‘The Color Purple’ co-star Whoopi Goldberg took to the stage at Los Angeles’ Dolby Theater to pay tribute to the late musical legend, who passed away in November at the age of 91, remembering his contributions to the worlds of music and movies. The audience responded with a standing ovation that lasted several minutes.
“When one hears the name Quincy Jones, one’s first thought is ‘musical genius’ and for good reason. 28 Grammy Awards, arranger and conductor for legends like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and Ray Charles, and the driving force behind ‘We are the World’,” Oprah said. Throughout his remarkable career, Jones worked with the most influential artists of multiple generations.
“But the man, our beloved Q, had an equally powerful impact on the world of film as a composer and producer.” Jones’ film work included scores for numerous critically acclaimed films across several decades.
“When we talk about Black excellence, we talk about Quincy,” Whoopi added. Jones was a pioneering figure who broke numerous racial barriers in the entertainment industry during his long career.
“In 1967, Quincy Jones was the first Black composer nominated int he Original Song category for the ‘Eyes of Love’ in the film ‘Banning’. 1967 was the first time, just keep that in mind. He was also nominated that year for Original Music Score for ‘In Cold Blood’. He received seven Oscar nominations for ‘The Wiz’, ‘In Cold Blood’, ‘The Love of Ivy’ and ‘The Color Purple’, which me and O were part of.” His nominations showcased his versatility and enduring impact on film music.
Oprah then said: “Paying tribute to him for all he has meant to our movie community is why we all honor Q’s memory tonight. Quincy was love, lived out loud in human form, and he poured that love into others and his work. Jones mentored countless young musicians and composers throughout his lifetime.
“My life changed for the better after meeting him. He discovered me for ‘The Color Purple’, which was my first film.” The film, which Jones produced, launched Winfrey’s acting career and became a cultural touchstone.
“Me too. So tonight we honor the true American legend whose music and movies continue to inspire us all,” Whoopi said. The Academy had previously honored Jones with a humanitarian award for his extensive charitable work.
Queen Latifah then took to the stage for a surprise performance of ‘Ease on Down’ from ‘The Wiz’. The performance included dancers recreating scenes from the film that Jones produced, featuring elaborate costumes and choreography reminiscent of the original production.
Earlier in the evening, Halle Berry introduced a musical tribute to James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, who announced last week they were stepping down from the franchise, with Amazon taking on creative control. The Bond tribute featured visual elements from throughout the series.
“Every generation does have their Bond, you know? The world revolves, it evolves, and so does he. But that signature mix of danger, style and intrigue? Well, now, that’s timeless,” she said. Broccoli and Wilson had overseen the franchise for decades, spanning multiple films and actors as Bond.
Margaret Qualley kicked off the medley with a dance tribute to Bond girls, while Blackpink’s Lisa then sang a snippet of ‘Live and Let Die’, followed by Doja Cat with ‘Diamonds are Forever’ and Raye with ‘Skyfall’. The performance transformed the stage into iconic Bond settings from throughout the series.
The tribute to Jones was particularly poignant as many in the audience had worked with him during his illustrious career. Camera shots captured emotional reactions from several acclaimed directors and performers who had collaborated with Jones on various projects.
The ceremony honored Jones not just for his artistic achievements but for his role as a trailblazer who opened doors for generations of artists of color in both the music and film industries. The tribute concluded with a montage showcasing the extraordinary breadth of Jones’ contributions to cinema and music, leaving many in the audience visibly moved by the celebration of his legacy.
