The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Quincy Jones shoots down Taylor Swift: 'We need f***ing songs, not hooks'
'A bad song can't be saved by the three best singers in the world'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Quincy Jones has produced some of the most iconic albums of all time, most notably Michael Jackson’s Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad.
Speaking to GQ, the legendary artist spoke about almost everything, ranging from working with Frank Sinatra, growing up in Chicago, and having 22 girlfriends.
Perhaps the most interesting moment comes when Jones discusses modern music, revealing his adoration for artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Bruno Mars, Drake, Mary J. Blige, and Jennifer Hudson.
However, asked about Taylor Swift — arguably the best selling artist on the planet right now — Jones was less positive. “We need more songs, man. F**king songs, not hooks,” he told the publication.
Asked about what’s missing from her music, Jones replied: "Knowing what you're doing. You know what I mean? Since I was a little kid, I've always heard the people that don't wanna do the work. It takes work, man. The only place you find success before work is the dictionary, and that's alphabetical.”
Questioned further about how he would produce a track, Jones said: "I'll figure something out. Man, the song is the sh*t—that's what people don't realise. A great song can make the worst singer in the world a star. A bad song can't be saved by the three best singers in the world. I learned that 50 years ago.”
Later in the sprawling interview, Jones discusses buying drugs from Malcolm X, Ray Charles shooting heroin into his testicles, and working with Prince. Read the GQ interview here.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments