Entertainment
Quincy Jones: The Maestro Who Shaped the Soundtrack of Our Lives
Orlando, FL (FNN) – Quincy Jones, the legendary producer, composer, and musician whose influence spanned over seven decades, passed away on Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, at the age of 91. His death marks the end of an era in music, but the impact of his work will resonate for generations to come. Jones was not just an icon in jazz, pop, soul, and film—he was a true innovator whose genius shaped the very foundation of modern music. Through his groundbreaking collaborations, visionary productions, and ability to blend genres, he redefined the way we experience music and created an enduring legacy that continues to inspire artists across the world.
The statement from Jones’ family beautifully sums up his legacy: “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.” Quincy Jones’ profound influence extends beyond the music itself—it’s reflected in his family, his collaborators, and the countless lives he touched over the years.
A Legendary Career, Built Over 70 Years
Quincy Jones began his career as a gifted musician and arranger in the 1950s, working alongside jazz greats like Ray Charles, Count Basie, and Duke Ellington. By the 1960s, he had evolved into one of the most sought-after producers, composers, and arrangers in the music industry. Jones’ groundbreaking work as a producer during this time helped shape the sound of the era. His ability to cross genres—from jazz to pop, from soul to funk—was unmatched. He crafted timeless records for artists like Aretha Franklin, George Benson, and Donna Summer, songs that would remain staples of the American musical landscape for decades.
In the 1960s, Jones also began scoring films, with his work on Sidney Poitier’s In the Heat of the Night (1967) and In Cold Blood (1967) showcasing his ability to bring the same level of depth and innovation to film scoring as he did to music production. His film scores further cemented his reputation as a true pioneer in both the music and film industries.
The King of Pop and the Birth of Thriller
Perhaps the most famous chapter in Jones’ career came in the 1980s, when he collaborated with Michael Jackson on the historic Thriller album. Released in 1982, Thriller became the best-selling album of all time and transformed the music industry. It was Jones’ innovative production techniques, his mastery of sound, and his ability to bring out the best in Jackson’s artistry that helped Thriller become the global phenomenon it remains today. Hits like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and the title track not only defined an era but also set new standards for what a pop album could achieve.
Their collaboration on Thriller became the gold standard for music production, with Jones pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the studio. But Jones’ influence didn’t stop with pop. His work as a producer for artists like Donna Summer, George Benson, and Lesley Gore helped shape the sound of soul, funk, and R&B throughout the 1960s and 1970s. From We Are the World (1985) to his early work with jazz greats like Dizzy Gillespie, Jones was the guiding force behind the soundtracks to countless cultural moments.
Quincy Jones: A Bridge Between Genres and Generations
One of Jones’ greatest contributions to music was his ability to bridge genres and inspire a wide range of artists. His influence extended beyond the musicians he worked with directly; his signature sound continues to permeate contemporary music across genres. For example, hip-hop artists, who often sample older tracks to create new sounds, have drawn heavily from Jones’ catalog, often without even realizing it. Jones’ influence runs deep in the DNA of hip-hop—his innovative, genre-blending style laid the groundwork for countless rap producers and artists.
Tupac Shakur, one of the most influential figures in hip-hop, sampled Jones’ 1974 song “Body Heat” for his hit “How Do U Want It.” The track, from Jones’ Body Heat album, was a smooth blend of jazz, funk, and R&B that became a key example of his ability to create timeless grooves. Tupac’s decision to sample this song speaks to the lasting appeal of Jones’ music, which continues to inspire and influence artists in unexpected ways.
Jones’ influence on hip-hop doesn’t stop there. The legendary New York rap duo Mobb Deep sampled Jones’ 1971 “Dollars” cue “Kitty With the Bent Frame” for their iconic song “Shook Ones, Part II.” The track, which became one of the most defining songs in East Coast hip-hop, subtly integrates Jones’ jazz influence, showcasing how his work has crossed into the genre of rap and helped shape its sound.
Ludacris, too, looked to Quincy Jones for inspiration when he sampled Jones’ signature track “Soul Bossa Nova” (1962) for his 2004 song “Number One Spot.” The catchy, upbeat track, which was originally part of Jones’ Big Band Bossa Nova album, has become one of his most recognizable compositions and continues to serve as a musical touchstone for new generations of artists.
A Legacy of Cultural Leadership and Philanthropy
Beyond his musical achievements, Quincy Jones was deeply committed to supporting cultural institutions and initiatives that elevated the African American community. He was an ardent supporter and council member of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), an institution that he helped bring to life. In 2016, Jones organized a special concert to celebrate the museum’s opening, bringing together a roster of artists and performers to honor the history and contributions of African Americans throughout the arts.
Jones was also a dedicated advocate for education and philanthropy. In 2005, he was honored with the UNCF Award of Excellence for his unwavering support of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and its member institutions. The prestigious award recognizes individuals who combine artistic excellence with a commitment to supporting educational access and opportunity for young African Americans. Jones’ advocacy for the UNCF was part of his broader mission to ensure that underrepresented communities had access to the resources and platforms they needed to succeed. His legacy as a philanthropist and cultural ambassador is as powerful as his musical contributions.
Source: People Magazine
A Family of Creatives
Quincy Jones’ legacy extends beyond his work in music and culture to the next generation of creatives—his own children. Several of his seven children have followed in his footsteps, carving out careers in the entertainment industry. His most famous daughter, Rashida Jones, has built a successful career as an actress, comedian, and writer, known for her roles in Parks and Recreation and The Office. Rashida’s creativity extends beyond acting—she co-directed the 2018 Grammy-winning documentary Quincy, which provided an intimate look at her father’s life and career, and also explored his health struggles, including a diabetic coma he experienced in 2015.
Other children of Quincy Jones have also followed creative paths. Kidada Jones, his daughter with actress Peggy Lipton, pursued a career as a model, designer, and actress, becoming a prominent figure in the fashion world. Quincy Jones III, a son from his marriage to Ulla Andersson, made his mark in the music industry as a music producer and film executive. These children, along with their siblings, carry on the family’s artistic legacy, and their work continues to reflect the diverse and rich cultural foundation their father laid.
Despite his global stature and countless accolades, Quincy Jones remained a deeply involved father, and his influence on his children is clear. They, too, carry forward the essence of his passion for creativity, culture, and service to others.
The Heartbeat of Music
Jones’ legacy will undoubtedly be measured in his countless Grammy Awards—28 in total—and his record-breaking achievements in the music industry. But what makes his influence so profound is not just the awards or the hits; it is the way his music touched lives. His compositions were more than just songs—they were expressions of joy, pain, love, and hope. His music carried people through the most challenging of times, and his collaborations with other great artists created some of the most memorable tracks in music history.
Jones’ family expressed this sentiment best: “Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.” It’s a fitting tribute to a man whose influence transcended time and genre. Quincy Jones didn’t just create music; he crafted a legacy that will continue to shape the world for years to come.
As we say goodbye to this icon, we celebrate his immense contributions to music, his love for his family, and the joy he brought to the world. Quincy Jones’ legacy is not just in the music he made but in the hearts and lives of everyone who heard it. His heartbeat, indeed, will echo for eternity.
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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com
Education
Dr. Jessica Henlon Honored During Women’s History Month for Leadership in Education, Community and the Arts
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — During Women’s History Month, leaders across the United States are recognized for their contributions to progress, equity and community empowerment. Among them, Florida National News (FNN) recognized Dr. Jessica Henlon, an educational psychologist, executive consultant, and systems builder known for blending strategy, creativity, and community impact in everything she does.
With more than 26 years of experience in student, youth, family and talent development, Dr. Henlon’s professional journey bridges higher education, civic leadership and the creative arts. Her work focuses on designing inclusive systems that foster belonging, equity and purpose — from the classroom to the stage, and from policy development to podcast conversations.
Founder and Principal: Dr. Jessica Henlon Consulting Co.
Dr. Henlon is the Founder and Principal of Dr. Jessica Henlon Consulting Co., a consulting firm dedicated to helping individuals and organizations build cultures of belonging through strategic leadership and storytelling.
Through her company, she has delivered keynote presentations and leadership workshops for organizations including Capella University, the Parikh Giving Alliance and American InterContinental University in Atlanta.
At American InterContinental University, Dr. Henlon presented research on campus belonging and student retention, while at Capella University she served as a panelist during the Virtual Professional Resource Conference discussing careers in applied psychology.
Her presentations, including “Mental Wealth: Wellness Without the Woo” and “Events with Purpose: Student Engagement That Sticks,” have reached audiences across education, business and the arts. She regularly facilitates sessions on student motivation, culturally relevant engagement, crisis leadership and inclusive program design.
Regional Director of Student Success, Valencia College
Dr. Henlon currently serves as Regional Director of Student Success for the West Region at Valencia College, where she leads student success initiatives across three campuses.
In this role, she oversees a cohort-based coaching model aligned with meta-majors, integrating academic advising, career development and institutional redesign strategies. Her leadership has contributed to record-breaking student engagement during early registration events, helping students access resources and remain on track toward their academic goals.
In January 2026, she co-presented at the NASPA Florida Drive-In Conference, representing Valencia College in a session titled “From Silos to Synergy: A Collegewide Approach to Student Success Coaching.” The presentation highlighted how centralized coaching structures and cross-functional partnerships strengthen student outcomes.
Dr. Henlon also contributes to campus well-being through her service on Valencia College’s Care and Concern Committee and Behavior Assessment Team (BAT), supporting proactive student support and campus safety initiatives.
24 Years of Leadership at Full Sail University
Prior to joining Valencia College, Dr. Henlon spent 24 years at Full Sail University, serving in leadership roles including Director of Student Development and Director of Academic Advising.
In 2018, she founded the Student Development Department, which included programs for:
- Care & Concern support services
- Community involvement and volunteerism
- Co-curricular student engagement
- Leadership development initiatives
She also launched the First-Generation College Student Program and helped establish more than 40 student organizations.
Under her leadership, participation in campus and virtual programming surpassed 60 percent of the student population.
Dr. Henlon also led student conduct and crisis intervention initiatives, facilitated Title IX-related hearings, and co-authored institutional policies focused on student wellness, inclusion and success.
As Chair of the President’s Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging and Social Impact Committee in 2024 and 2025, she spearheaded cross-campus initiatives connecting faculty, staff, students and alumni.
Among the committee’s notable community projects was a collaboration with the Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture, where Full Sail students restored historic images of the Tuskegee Airmen, helping preserve local Black history while expanding student learning opportunities.
Creative Leadership:
Fierce Entertainment and Orlando International Fashion Week
Dr. Henlon’s influence also extends into arts and culture through her involvement with Fierce Entertainment and Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW).
OIFW is a nonprofit organization that hosts biannual fashion showcases and cultural events aimed at strengthening Florida’s creative economy while promoting international tourism and multicultural representation in fashion.
Through these initiatives, Dr. Henlon has helped support programs that highlight:
- Emerging designers
- Student creative talent
- Multicultural representation in fashion and media
She also co-hosts the “Fierce Entertainment Live” podcast alongside Rob Henlon and Starr Dalton, a platform dedicated to elevating diverse creators and civic voices.
Her community involvement includes judging the Miss Winter Park Scholarship Competition, a preliminary event to Miss America, and supporting community cultural events such as Orlando Carnival Downtown.
Fierce Entertainment’s work has also been recognized locally, with site visits and community engagement initiatives supported by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings.
Academic Credentials and Leadership Development
Dr. Henlon holds:
- PhD in Educational Psychology
- Master’s degree in Counseling with a specialization in School Counseling
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology
Her doctoral dissertation examined virtual learning experiences of first-generation college students, focusing on how digital communities support motivation and persistence.
Her professional development credentials include:
- Harvard ManageMentor certification
- Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity (SEED) training
- Behavioral coaching certification through Behavioral Essentials
She is also a graduate of Leadership Winter Park, Class 34, and a member of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce.
Dr. Henlon is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Impact on Women and Future Leaders
Raised in a military family and shaped by her Panamanian and Afro-Caribbean heritage, Dr. Henlon brings cultural awareness, compassion and mentorship into every leadership role she holds.
Through her work in education, consulting and the arts, she continues to mentor young professionals, support women in leadership and champion inclusive systems that help people feel seen, valued and empowered.
Her leadership philosophy centers on radical belonging and collective empowerment, ensuring that individuals — particularly those from historically marginalized communities — have opportunities to succeed.
A Legacy of Belonging
Dr. Henlon’s voice and perspective were featured in the exhibition “A Peace of My Mind” by photographer John Noltner, hosted at the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida, where she reflected on the meaning of belonging.
“Peace means knowing that your needs are met, you have value, and you belong… so much that you strive to share that feeling with others,” Henlon said.
Key Achievements and Milestones
- More than 26 years of leadership in higher education and student development
- Founder of Dr. Jessica Henlon Consulting Co.
- Regional Director of Student Success at Valencia College
- Founded Full Sail University’s Student Development Department
- Established 40+ student organizations and a First-Generation Student Program
- Co-presented at NASPA Florida Drive-In Conference (2026)
- Community cultural leadership with Fierce Entertainment and OIFW
- National conference presenter and leadership consultant
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About the Florida National News Women’s History Month Series
Each March, Florida National News proudly celebrates Women’s History Month by highlighting the achievements, leadership, and impact of women across Florida and beyond. This special editorial series spotlights trailblazers in arts, culture, and fashion; business and entrepreneurship; education and academia; government and public service; media and communications; military and veterans; nonprofit and community leadership; philanthropy; and sports and athletics—women whose stories inspire progress and empower future generations.
Entertainment
Met Gala 2026: Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman and Venus Williams to Lead Star-Studded Event With New Costume Art Exhibit
Entertainment
Chloe Bailey and Lynn Whitfield Star in Thriller Strung, Opening Night Film at 2026 American Black Film Festival
LOS ANGELES (FNN) — The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) announced that the psychological thriller Strung, directed by Malcolm D. Lee, will serve as the Opening Night premiere for the festival’s milestone 30th annual edition.
The film stars Chloe Bailey as a talented violinist whose prestigious job tutoring a mysterious elite family quickly spirals into a psychological struggle for her safety and sanity. The ensemble cast also includes Lynn Whitfield, Lucien Laviscount, Anna Diop and Coco Jones.
The film will make its world premiere during ABFF before debuting on the streaming platform Peacock on June 26, 2026.
Opening Night Film for ABFF’s 30th Anniversary
The 30th edition of the American Black Film Festival will take place May 27–31, 2026, in Miami Beach, Florida under the celebratory theme “Homecoming.” The milestone event marks three decades of highlighting emerging Black filmmakers and elevating diverse storytelling in film and television.
Nicole Friday, president of NICE CROWD and producer of ABFF, said the festival’s anniversary makes Lee’s return particularly meaningful.
“As we celebrate 30 years of the American Black Film Festival, having Malcolm D. Lee return with his latest project, Strung, feels especially right for this moment,” Friday said. “Malcolm has been part of the ABFF journey, and his return under our ‘Homecoming’ theme feels truly full circle. It’s a special way to open the festival in Miami Beach as we mark this milestone.”
Film Production and Creative Team
Strung was written by Alan McElroy and produced by Tyler Perry, Jason Blum, Tim Palen, Malcolm D. Lee and Dominique Telson.
The project is produced by Peachtree & Vine and Blumhouse Productions in association with Blackmaled Productions. Executive producers include Philip Waley, Shaun S. Sutton, Alan McElroy and Giselle Johnson-Morris.
New Initiatives and Festival Expansion
Along with the Opening Night announcement, ABFF organizers also highlighted new initiatives tied to the anniversary celebration. The festival previously named Oscar-, Golden Globe- and Emmy-winning actress Regina King as the 2026 Festival Ambassador.
ABFF will also debut the ABFF 9:16 Microdrama Project, a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to identify and elevate vertical storytelling from creators of color. The program aims to spotlight emerging talent and adapt to evolving digital content formats.
