Quincy Jones: 85th Birthday Celebration

At the 2018 Montreux Jazz Festival, an extraordinary lineup of international stars gathered for an unforgettable night honoring the iconic producer, composer, and arranger Quincy Jones on his eighty-fifth birthday. Curated by Qwest, the secret, unannounced lineup brought together an unprecedented mix of legendary masters and bright young visionaries, creating an atmosphere of electric anticipation from the moment the curtain rose. The star-studded roster features groundbreaking performances from drummer Nate Smith, jazz-fusion outfit Ezra Collective, multi-instrumental prodigy Jacob Collier, and visionary trumpeter Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah. Joining them on stage are powerhouse keyboardist Robert Glasper, hip-hop icons Talib Kweli and Yasiin Bey (aka Mos Def), and veteran jazz pianist Monty Alexander. Driven by the shared inspiration of performing in front of Jones himself, every musician delivers their absolute best, pushing the musical boundaries of jazz, soul, and hip-hop to soaring new heights. This film beautifully captures the magic of that historic evening, recording the joy radiating between the stage and the audience. Defined by freewheeling virtuosity, spontaneous jam sessions, and deep mutual reverence, the concert stands as a rare tribute to a man who shaped modern music history. It is a thrilling, emotionally resonant celebration of creative solidarity and artistic excellence.