Watch Listen Up: The Lives of Quincy Jones

Listen Up: The Lives of Quincy Jones is a vibrant and engaging documentary about one of the most influential and celebrated figures in the history of music. Directed by Ellen Weissbrod and produced by Courtney Sale Ross, the film explores the multifaceted career of Quincy Jones, who has achieved unparalleled success as a musician, composer, producer, and arranger.

Narrated by Quincy Jones himself, the film presents a comprehensive look at his life and work, tracing his rise from humble beginnings in Seattle to becoming a global icon of music. Through exclusive interviews, archival footage, and performances, Listen Up takes the audience on a journey through the various phases of Jones's career, from his early days as a jazz trumpeter to his collaborations with legendary artists like Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Ray Charles.

The film paints a vivid portrait of Jones as a visionary artist who constantly pushed boundaries and broke down barriers. It delves into his extraordinary level of creativity, highlighting his ability to fuse different styles and genres of music, as well as his role in shaping the sound of contemporary pop music. The film also explores his personal life, including his relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, as well as his struggles and triumphs.

One of the most compelling aspects of Listen Up is the way it puts Jones's work in context, both within the music industry and in the broader social and political landscape. The film examines Jones's impact on race relations and diversity in the music industry, as well as his advocacy for human rights and his work as a philanthropist. It also touches on his experiences with racism and discrimination, including his involvement in the civil rights movement and his friendship with Martin Luther King Jr.

Throughout the film, Jones is portrayed as a force of nature, a man who never stops moving and never stops creating. His incredible work ethic and dedication to his craft are evident in every scene, and his infectious enthusiasm is palpable. The film is also packed with insightful commentary from a range of experts, including musicians, producers, and industry insiders, who provide valuable context and perspective on Jones's life and work.

The film features a wealth of incredible music, ranging from classic jazz standards to contemporary pop hits. Performances by Jones himself are interspersed with clips of some of the greatest musicians of all time, including Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, and Stevie Wonder. There are also several fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpses of Jones in the studio, working with some of the world's top artists and producers.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way it reveals the sheer breadth of Jones's musical output. Many viewers may be surprised to learn just how many classic songs and albums Jones was involved in, from famous film scores like The Color Purple to landmark albums like Michael Jackson's Thriller. The film provides a rich tapestry of musical history, and serves as a fitting tribute to one of the greatest musical minds of our time.

Overall, Listen Up: The Lives of Quincy Jones is a must-see documentary for anyone interested in music, culture, or history. It is a fascinating and engaging portrait of a truly remarkable individual, and a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite people from all walks of life.

Listen Up: The Lives of Quincy Jones is a 1990 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.