Queen Latifah Pays Tribute to Quincy Jones at 2025 Oscars

At the 2025 Academy Awards, Queen Latifah delivered an emotional tribute to the late Quincy Jones, performing “Ease on Down the Road” from The Wiz. The performance was introduced by Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, two longtime admirers of Jones’ contributions to music and film.

A Tribute to a Musical Legend

The tribute honored Quincy Jones‘ extraordinary career, which spanned over seven decades and earned him 28 Grammy Awards, an Emmy, and multiple Oscar nominations. His influence shaped the sound of modern music, film scores, and television productions.

Why “Ease on Down the Road” Was Chosen

The song “Ease on Down the Road” was a fitting choice, as Quincy Jones served as the musical supervisor for The Wiz (1978), a film adaptation of the Broadway musical starring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. The song represents Jones’ ability to merge soul, jazz, and pop into a timeless classic.

A Powerful Performance by Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah’s powerful vocals and commanding stage presence brought a new energy to the song, leaving the audience in awe. She infused emotion and passion into the performance, creating a moment that truly honored Jones’ musical legacy.

A Standing Ovation from Hollywood

Following her performance, the entire Oscars audience gave Latifah a standing ovation, reflecting the profound impact that Quincy Jones had on both the music and film industries. Many in attendance were visibly moved by the tribute.

Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey’s Introduction

Before Latifah took the stage, Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey spoke about Quincy Jones’ contributions to film music, highlighting his Oscar-nominated scores for The Color Purple and In Cold Blood. They described Jones as a visionary and mentor to countless artists.

A Legacy of Film and Television Music

Jones’ impact on Hollywood extended beyond The Wiz. His musical compositions were featured in numerous films, including In the Heat of the Night (1967), The Getaway (1972), and The Color Purple (1985), making him one of the most influential film composers of his time.

A Career That Bridged Generations

Throughout his career, Jones worked with artists across generations, from Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles to Michael Jackson and Beyoncé. His ability to adapt and innovate kept him relevant in the industry for decades.

Remembering His Work in Jazz and Pop

Before his success in Hollywood, Jones was a jazz prodigy, working with Miles Davis, Count Basie, and Duke Ellington. His roots in jazz and big-band music set the foundation for his later work in pop, R&B, and film scoring.

Queen Latifah’s Deep Connection to Quincy Jones

Queen Latifah, who has long cited Jones as a major inspiration, spoke about how his mentorship and pioneering work helped open doors for artists like herself. She credited him for breaking barriers for Black musicians and producers.

Tributes from Fellow Artists

Following Latifah’s performance, social media flooded with tributes from fellow artists, including Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, and Herbie Hancock, who all expressed gratitude for Jones’ contributions to music and culture.

Quincy Jones’ Role in Uplifting Black Artists

Jones was a trailblazer for Black musicians in Hollywood, using his influence to uplift African American artists in a time when the industry had limited opportunities for them. His efforts helped pave the way for future generations of Black entertainers.

A Moment of Reflection at the Oscars

The tribute also served as a moment of reflection on the importance of recognizing pioneers while they are still alive. Many in the audience noted that Jones’ impact extended beyond entertainment, influencing activism and social change.

An Unforgettable Oscars Tribute

The 2025 Academy Awards tribute to Quincy Jones will be remembered as one of the most heartfelt and significant moments in Oscars history. Queen Latifah’s stunning performance, combined with the words of Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, ensured that Jones’ legacy was honored in a way worthy of his impact.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Musical Genius

Queen Latifah Quincy Jones tribute Oscars 2025Queen Latifah’s tribute to Quincy Jones was a powerful reminder of his genius, influence, and groundbreaking achievements. His work continues to shape the music and film industries, inspiring artists of all backgrounds. The performance at the 2025 Oscars ensured that his legacy will never be forgotten.