What is the best Quincy Jones album to start with?

The best album to start with is "The Dude" (1981). It's the most representative of what makes Quincy Jones worth hearing.

What are the best Quincy Jones albums?

The essential Quincy Jones albums include "In Cold Blood", "The Italian Job", "Walk, Don't Run", "This Is How I Feel About Jazz" (1957) and "Go West, Man!" (1957).

How many albums does Quincy Jones have?

Quincy Jones has 55 releases in their discography, including 44 albums and 1 EP.

Photo: Canadian Film Centre · CC BY 2.0

Quincy Jones

Q: Who is Quincy Jones for?

If you're into funk and jazz, Quincy Jones is worth your time. A rhythmic pulse anchors dense layers of texture, where syncopation meets melodic richness in a dance that invites constant movement.

A rhythmic pulse anchors dense layers of texture, where syncopation meets melodic richness in a dance that invites constant movement.

funk · jazz · soul

United States

Read about Quincy Jones on Bookshop

Start here

The album

The Dude (1981)

Blends various genres and showcases Jones' production skills, making it an accessible introduction to his diverse sound.

The song

“Soul Bossa Nova”

Features an infectious groove and catchy melody, capturing the essence of Quincy Jones’ style in a standalone track.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"In Cold Blood" — from In Cold Blood

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"Hikky-Burr (Kincaid Kinfolk)" — from The Original Jam Sessions 1969 (2004)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Boplicity" — from Miles & Quincy Live at Montreux (1993)

accessible entry with immediate hook
4

"Pleasingly Plump" — from I Dig Dancers (1960)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"Let the Good Times Roll" — from Q's Jook Joint (1995)

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"Lester Leaps In" — from The Great Wide World of Quincy Jones (1959)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Quincy Jones

Quincy Jones stands as a monumental figure in the music landscape, reshaping the very fabric of contemporary sound through his innovative approaches and collaborations.

His influence extends beyond mere genre definitions; he has created a space where disparate musical elements coalesce, inviting listeners into an expansive world that transcends cultural boundaries.

His influence extends beyond mere genre definitions; he has created a space where disparate musical elements coalesce, inviting listeners into an expansive world that transcends cultural boundaries. His ability to craft seamless transitions between styles has not only altered how artists collaborate but also shaped audience expectations around musical versatility. Jones's process blends meticulous arrangement with an instinctive understanding of rhythm and melody. He often draws from his diverse sonic palette, effortlessly integrating elements from bossa nova to funk, creating a rich tapestry that resonates on multiple levels. This approach encourages both musicians and listeners to embrace a more holistic view of music-making, where each note and nuance contributes to a larger narrative arc. In his songwriting, Jones frequently explores themes of love, social justice, and the human experience, weaving storytelling with an impressionistic touch. His lyrical voice balances sincerity with a subtle irony, drawing listeners into relatable yet profound reflections on life's complexities. This duality creates a dynamic connection between artist and audience that feels both intimate and expansive.

44 studio albums· 55 total releases· 7 decades· United States