You may not have known it was him, but you’ve undoubtedly heard Quincy Jones’ influence on many of the biggest pop hits of the 20th century.

Like one music producer and multi-instrumentalisthe understood the business of recording records inside and out.

It was that deep understanding of music that allowed him to rework Fly Me To The Moon – from Waltz to Swing for Frank Sinatra – just as he helped people like Michael Jackson find his solo stylewith pop masterpieces like Billie Jean.

There are connections within the music industry, and then there are the 19 cell phones that Jones’ security guard apparently had on his behalf.

Celebrities wanted him to get their number; his musical approval mattered.

Of course, with that knowledge and universal respect, he could get away with saying more than most.

While many artists shy away from the controversy that comes with having an honest opinion about others, Jones was not one to censor himself.

Elvis, he claimed, was a racist with whom he did not want to work.

The Beatles, he said, were “the worst musicians in the world”. (Although he later apologized to Sir Paul McCartney.)

No artist was above criticism, as they should be.

While he confounded the egos of 46 of the greatest singers of all time during the recording of We Are The World, he apparently only allowed Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder to contribute ideas.

He reportedly told Jackson to “just do as you’re told.”

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Music legend Quincy Jones dies at the age of 91
Quincy Jones’ most famous collaborations

Jackson – and the music world in general – listened because Jones knew what he was talking about.

His career as a black music executive was groundbreaking. His dexterity with music and his ability to hear how to make an artist better means he leaves a legacy that will outlive us all.