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.

As Music producer and multi-instrumentalistHe understood the craft of record making very well.

It was this deep understanding of music that allowed him to rework “Fly Me To The Moon” – from waltz to swing for Frank Sinatra – just like him 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 carried for him.

Celebrities wanted him to get their number – his musical approval counted.

Of course, that knowledge and general respect meant he could say more than most.

While many artists shy away from the controversy that comes with having a real opinion about others, Jones wasn't the type to censor himself.

He claimed that Elvis was a racist who he would not work with.

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

No artist was above criticism, as they should be.

During the recording of We Are The World, as he grappled with the egos of 46 of the greatest singers of all time, he apparently only allowed Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder to contribute ideas.

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

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

His career as a black music manager was groundbreaking. His skill with music and his sense of how to make an artist better means he leaves a legacy that will outlive us all.