Stevie Wonder, Will Smith, and Other Artists Paid Tribute To Quincy Jones at 2025 Grammys

This year’s 2025 Grammys honored a legend in addition to giving away prizes. The evening included a memorable remembrance of the late, great Quincy Jones, who died in November 2024 at the age of ninety-one. The tribute, which was full of emotion, star power, and classic song, was a fitting way to honor a man who influenced generations of artists.

Will Smith Kick Off the Celebration

Will Smith set the scene with a moving introduction before the music even started, referring to Jones as “a brilliant 28-time Grammy Award-winning producer, arranger, film, television composer, conductor, trumpet player, recording artist, and humanitarian.” Smith, whose career took off because of Jones’ help on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, described Jones as a “mentor, friend, father figure” and reflected on the significant influence Jones had on both his life and the music industry as a whole.

“Quincy worked with so many music greats across multiple genres,” Smith said. “Bringing the best out in legends from brother Ray Charles to Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie to Aretha Franklin, just to name a few.”

A Star-Studded Musical Tribute

The tribute performance was as diverse as Quincy’s legendary career. It kicked off with jazz icon Herbie Hancock performing Jones’ classic instrumental “Killer Joe,” setting the mood with smooth, timeless elegance. Then, powerhouse vocalist Cynthia Erivo joined him for a breathtaking rendition of “Fly Me to the Moon”, a song Quincy arranged for Frank Sinatra in 1964. Erivo started slow, letting the lyrics sink in, before the orchestra picked up the tempo, capturing the full swing of Sinatra’s version.

Next, country star Lainey Wilson and Jacob Collier, a modern-day musical genius and Jones protégé, put a fresh spin on “Let the Good Times Roll”, bringing lively, soulful energy to the stage. The crowd was hooked, but the tribute was just getting started.

Stevie Wonder and a Powerful Message

The energy shifted as Stevie Wonder stepped in with his harmonica, joining Hancock on piano for a mashup of “Bluesette.” Then came the emotional high point—Wonder led the audience in a moving singalong of “We Are the World”, the legendary 1985 charity single produced by Jones.

“You see the people there that day—Quincy told us to keep our egos out and at the door,” Wonder shared. “And we are still the world. We are still the children. We are still the people who fight and will die for this nation. So we definitely have to be able to celebrate each other.”

Janelle Monáe Brings the Party

Just when it seemed the tribute couldn’t get any better, Will Smith returned to the stage to share a personal story about Jones. He recalled lessons Quincy taught him about leadership and responsibility while working on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Then, Smith introduced the grand finale—Janelle Monáe.

Monáe took the stage with electrifying energy, performing “Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough”, a nod to Jones’ legendary work with Michael Jackson. Channeling the King of Pop, she nailed the signature moves—even pulling off an impressive moonwalk. As the crowd went wild, she ripped off her tuxedo jacket to reveal a shirt that read, “I ❤️ QJ.”

“We love you, Quincy!” she shouted, sealing the tribute with pure joy and passion.

More Than Just a Tribute

Beyond celebrating Quincy Jones, this year’s Grammys carried a deeper purpose. With Los Angeles still recovering from devastating wildfires that claimed lives and destroyed thousands of homes, the Recording Academy dedicated the event to raising funds for relief efforts.

“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles,” said Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. “This city is our home, and we mourn the loss of life and destruction that have come to it in recent days.”

Through the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort to Support Music Professionals, the Academy raised more than $3 million to aid individuals affected by the tragedy. Mason went on to say that music “has the power to heal, comfort, and unite like nothing else.” He also added, “The Grammys will serve as a platform to amplify the spirit of resilience that defines this great city, in addition to honoring the artistry and accomplishments of our music community.”

The Quincy Jones Legacy Lives On

Quincy Jones was a visionary who influenced the development of music history in addition to being a musician. His impact may be heard in everything from hip-hop to pop, jazz, and movie soundtracks. With a memorial that combined nostalgia, celebrity power, and genuine enjoyment of music, the 2025 Grammys made sure his legacy was celebrated in a manner worthy of his grandeur.

As Will Smith put it best, “Quincy taught us all that life is a feast, and you don’t stop till you get enough.” And for one incredible night, the world came together to make sure Quincy’s music—and his spirit—would never be forgotten.