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12 Notes: On Life and Creativity
Wisdom and musings on creativity and life from one of the world’s most beloved musicians, producers, and mentors, Quincy Jones12 Notesis a self-development guide that will affirm that creativity is a calling that can and should be answered, no matter your age or experience. Drawing from his own life, and those of his many creative collaborators past and present, Quincy Jones presents readers with lessons that are hardworking and accessible, yet speak to the passion of self-expression. He includes sections as deep as how to transform grief into power, and as practical as how to set goals and articulate intentions through daily affirmations. Weaving his story throughout, Jones lets readers in on his own creative process, as well as the importance of letting honesty, hard work, and good relationships drive your career.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 5, 2022
210 people are currently reading
4,172 people want to read
About the author
Quincy Jones
120books32followersQuincy Delight Jones Jr. was an American record producer, songwriter, composer, arranger, and film and television producer. Over the course of his seven-decade career, he received many accolades including 28 Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Tony Award as well as nominations for seven Academy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards.
Jones came to prominence in the 1950s as a jazz arranger and conductor before producing pop hit records for Lesley Gore in the early 1960s (including "It's My Party") and serving as an arranger and conductor for several collaborations between Frank Sinatra and the jazz artist Count Basie. Jones produced three of the most successful albums by pop star Michael Jackson: Off the Wall (1979), Thriller (1982), and Bad (1987). In 1985, Jones produced and conducted the charity song "We Are the World", which raised funds for victims of famine in Ethiopia.
Jones composed numerous films scores including for The Pawnbroker (1965), In the Heat of the Night (1967), In Cold Blood (1967), The Italian Job (1969), The Wiz (1978), and The Color Purple (1985). He won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Composition for a Series for the miniseries Roots (1977). He received a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical as a producer for the revival of The Color Purple (2016).
Throughout his career he was the recipient of numerous honorary awards including the Grammy Legend Award in 1992, the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 1995, the Kennedy Center Honors in 2001, the National Medal of the Arts in 2011, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in 2014, and the Academy Honorary Award in June 2024. He was named one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century by Time.
Jones came to prominence in the 1950s as a jazz arranger and conductor before producing pop hit records for Lesley Gore in the early 1960s (including "It's My Party") and serving as an arranger and conductor for several collaborations between Frank Sinatra and the jazz artist Count Basie. Jones produced three of the most successful albums by pop star Michael Jackson: Off the Wall (1979), Thriller (1982), and Bad (1987). In 1985, Jones produced and conducted the charity song "We Are the World", which raised funds for victims of famine in Ethiopia.
Jones composed numerous films scores including for The Pawnbroker (1965), In the Heat of the Night (1967), In Cold Blood (1967), The Italian Job (1969), The Wiz (1978), and The Color Purple (1985). He won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Composition for a Series for the miniseries Roots (1977). He received a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical as a producer for the revival of The Color Purple (2016).
Throughout his career he was the recipient of numerous honorary awards including the Grammy Legend Award in 1992, the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 1995, the Kennedy Center Honors in 2001, the National Medal of the Arts in 2011, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in 2014, and the Academy Honorary Award in June 2024. He was named one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century by Time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
March 15, 2022
3.5 Stars
This is a Self-Help book clocking in at just under 200 pages from legendary musician and record producer Quincy Jones. I love rock and celebrity biographies, and already knew some basic facts about this entertainment icon. For instance, he produced the biggest selling album of all time, Michael Jackson's "Thriller", as well as the charity penned hit song, "We are the World", and had been married to sixties "Mod Squad" actress Peggy Lipton.
Quincy is now 89 years old, but still keeps working and learning each day. He loves life, but recounts a time back in his twenties when he nearly took his own life out of financial desperation. Each chapter of the book is spearheaded by one of the twelve notes in music and gives great advice that not only pertains to music, but general tools for a successful and meaningful life. Much of it rang true for me because my son is a young very talented and passionate musician and composer. A lot of it is common sense- and I recognized the admirable traits of integrity, generosity, information-seeking and intense hard work in my own son as he navigates the music business. As I read I kept thinking that this would be a good book to be used in Music Business college classes.
Decades ago Quincy wrote his actual full biography, and though this shorter book includes relevant moments in his life to illustrate points, don't expect a general biography here. The book's foreward is written by much younger musical artist The Weeknd where he talks about seeing Quincy at one of his earlier shows. Weeknd was dazzled and made a beeline to talk to him after the show, but Quincy directed him to pay attention to his fans first. He assured Weeknd that he would still be waiting patiently to talk to him afterward. This was the first lesson told in this book- one that Quincy learned from musical greats that were kind, generous and patient with him.
Quincy embraces people always underestimating him throughout his career where he surprised and exceeded their expectations. When you work really hard and do your best this leads to other opportunities. Always treat people well and have integrity...doing the right thing when no one else is looking...this is your reputation which spreads and can either fuel or derail a career. Read books and learn everything you can. Always be prepared so that you don't miss out on opportunities. As I stated this book is music centric but has general applications towards a successful career and life. Quincy Jones came from very humble and tragic beginnings, and this short, instructive book really shows what you can make of your life if you have a passion, do the hard work and are blessed with the generosity of those who can help.
Thank you to the publisher Abrams for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
This is a Self-Help book clocking in at just under 200 pages from legendary musician and record producer Quincy Jones. I love rock and celebrity biographies, and already knew some basic facts about this entertainment icon. For instance, he produced the biggest selling album of all time, Michael Jackson's "Thriller", as well as the charity penned hit song, "We are the World", and had been married to sixties "Mod Squad" actress Peggy Lipton.
Quincy is now 89 years old, but still keeps working and learning each day. He loves life, but recounts a time back in his twenties when he nearly took his own life out of financial desperation. Each chapter of the book is spearheaded by one of the twelve notes in music and gives great advice that not only pertains to music, but general tools for a successful and meaningful life. Much of it rang true for me because my son is a young very talented and passionate musician and composer. A lot of it is common sense- and I recognized the admirable traits of integrity, generosity, information-seeking and intense hard work in my own son as he navigates the music business. As I read I kept thinking that this would be a good book to be used in Music Business college classes.
Decades ago Quincy wrote his actual full biography, and though this shorter book includes relevant moments in his life to illustrate points, don't expect a general biography here. The book's foreward is written by much younger musical artist The Weeknd where he talks about seeing Quincy at one of his earlier shows. Weeknd was dazzled and made a beeline to talk to him after the show, but Quincy directed him to pay attention to his fans first. He assured Weeknd that he would still be waiting patiently to talk to him afterward. This was the first lesson told in this book- one that Quincy learned from musical greats that were kind, generous and patient with him.
Quincy embraces people always underestimating him throughout his career where he surprised and exceeded their expectations. When you work really hard and do your best this leads to other opportunities. Always treat people well and have integrity...doing the right thing when no one else is looking...this is your reputation which spreads and can either fuel or derail a career. Read books and learn everything you can. Always be prepared so that you don't miss out on opportunities. As I stated this book is music centric but has general applications towards a successful career and life. Quincy Jones came from very humble and tragic beginnings, and this short, instructive book really shows what you can make of your life if you have a passion, do the hard work and are blessed with the generosity of those who can help.
Thank you to the publisher Abrams for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
November 19, 2024
I got a lot out of this book. There were entertaining stories and there were life lessons. This man was a great artist but also good people. He had a big heart and was an astute observer of life and people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5️⃣�> I rate this 5 out of 5 stars!
12 Notes is a beautifully written message about life and creativity told from not only someone who happens to be famous and talented, but from someone who learned early on about the importance of humility, kindness, and learning from all experiences and lessons.
I appreciated how each chapter was a note of one of the 12 musical notes, and each chapter focused on a different lesson, a lesson that he learned and is now sharing with others. Quincy pulled from his own experiences, and from what he’s learned from others and how the lesson can be applied to everyone no matter your gifts because everyone has a gift. He provided the reader insight into some very personal stories of his life which I very much appreciated as it showed that he is not exempt from hard times, but has learned how to get through hard times and what he’s learned from hard times.
I very much enjoyed how he tied in music and creativity into his stories and lessons, and it wasn’t too technical so that non-musicians such as myself could understand. This book was well written, a joy to read, and refreshing. I would recommend having a notebook and a highlighter nearby while reading because there’s definitely nuggets and quotes that you’ll want to reference later.
You do not need to know a lot about Quincy Jones to enjoy this book. It was a quick read, a pleasure to read, and a warm hug wrapped up in pages. Thank you to Quincy for sharing your life and experiences with us. I give this 👍🏾👍🏾
12 Notes is a beautifully written message about life and creativity told from not only someone who happens to be famous and talented, but from someone who learned early on about the importance of humility, kindness, and learning from all experiences and lessons.
I appreciated how each chapter was a note of one of the 12 musical notes, and each chapter focused on a different lesson, a lesson that he learned and is now sharing with others. Quincy pulled from his own experiences, and from what he’s learned from others and how the lesson can be applied to everyone no matter your gifts because everyone has a gift. He provided the reader insight into some very personal stories of his life which I very much appreciated as it showed that he is not exempt from hard times, but has learned how to get through hard times and what he’s learned from hard times.
I very much enjoyed how he tied in music and creativity into his stories and lessons, and it wasn’t too technical so that non-musicians such as myself could understand. This book was well written, a joy to read, and refreshing. I would recommend having a notebook and a highlighter nearby while reading because there’s definitely nuggets and quotes that you’ll want to reference later.
You do not need to know a lot about Quincy Jones to enjoy this book. It was a quick read, a pleasure to read, and a warm hug wrapped up in pages. Thank you to Quincy for sharing your life and experiences with us. I give this 👍🏾👍🏾
April 30, 2022
12 Notes is a poignant inspirational book/memoir in which Quincy Jones takes his life experience and gives readers inspiration to lead their lives without fear and pursuing your goals despite any setbacks you are presented with. Quincy Jones’s life resume is so profound and his achievements a mile long, its hard not to take his advice to heart. He is such an accomplished man and not of it was just laid in his lap. He worked hard and took the initiative to get where he is today and 12 Notes takes his journey and turns it into inspiration for others.
February 27, 2023
Note A: Recycle Your Pain into Purpose
p.10 � Creativity allows us to leave parts of our experiences and out hearts with those on the receiving end. And whether it’s now, or long after we’ve left this planet, I believe there’s a reason for it all.
p.13 � We need you, your gifts, and your talents.
Note B: You Gotta Go to Know
p.29-30 � Immersing yourself in the native culture of a particular place is an incredibly important aspect of life as it ultimately prevents you from trying to force your culture onto everybody else. We are all guilty of trying to compress others into what we are familiar with, but it’s time to get rid of the I-me-mine mentality, and start focusing on “we,� “us,� and “ours.� Not only does it make out communal human experience a more meaningful one, but it also provides a richer well of knowledge to draw from, making us more creative individuals.
p.30 � For example, my creativity comes from my experiences, and without experiencing more of the world, I would only be able to create from a limited perspective. Think about “We Are the World,� the 1985 charity single we produced that went on to become the bestselling single of all time. There’s no way I could’ve been a part of that if I didn’t truly immerse myself in what the world was going through, including poverty, hunger, strife, and a myriad of ailments. How can you expect to create art that transcends cultural boundaries if you yourself aren’t even able to relate to someone on the other side of your city? One of the main ways I have been able to achieve this is by travelling and directly immersing myself in other cultures � from the language to the food to the music.
Note D: Sharpen Your Left Brain
p.83 � Having done this time and again, I’m tellin� you: if you want to create art that invades the subconscious mind and leaves a long-lasting impact, you’ve for to have the proper blend of soul and science.
Note D# [sharp]: Avoid Paralysis from Analysis
p.87 � There still needs to be a balance of science and soul. Otherwise, you may fall into the trap of paralysis form analysis. In other words, you may get so caught up in your own thoughts, or logistics thereof, that you end up suffocating your artistry.
p.88 � I don’t think you can write or create anything worthwhile if you suppress your instincts and emotions. You’ve got to be sitting deep in truth in order to create truth.
I’ve learned how to navigate the process of getting out of my own way through a variety of methods, but I’ve distilled them into four points which I hope will be helpful as you try to weigh through your creativity and learn how to do the same. It pretty much comes down to:
1. Not putting yourself in a box
2. Listening to your gut instincts
3. The Goosebump Test
4. A great song and story
p.92 � We so often dismiss our greatest ideas, thinking they’re supposed to make some type of grand entrance when, in reality, they may often just present themselves in the form of a whisper. This is why it is essential to quiet your conscious mind and instead tap into your subconscious mind � the part that guides your intuition and ability to hear those whispers.
It has been scientifically stated that humans operate in either “alpha� or “beta� mental states when awake, meaning that our brains are in a state of calm or rest (alpha) or highly active (beta). Knowing this, I’ve decided that I don’t believe in writer’s block. It’s not a block; rather, it’s the need to move into an alpha state so you can hear what your heart is trying to tell you.
p.93 � Only then can you quiet your conscious mind and tap into your subconscious, which helps you think more clearly without internal judgement. Have you ever wondered why children speak their minds with no inhibition? It’s because their brainwaves are at an alpha frequency!
Whenever I need to write a significant amount of music or just get unstuck, I’ll lie down with my back on the floor, legs up on the bed, and I have my music pad and pencil ready to go. After I’ve relaxed just enough, and find myself slipping into an alpha state, I’ll write whatever comes to me.
p.94 � So, whenever you hear that whisper, you better write it down.
Learning this method of creation largely influenced my ability to turn out so much music because I didn’t allow myself to block what was naturally coming through me. I believe we are a terminal for a higher power, and that your creativity comes through you, not solely from you. Regardless of individual beliefs, if we’re not keeping ourselves open to what was being transmitted through us, then we risk missing the whispers.
p.95 � Creativity is informed by what you feel, not what you think, and learning to tune into those feelings is ultimately what is going to carry you through when distractions come.
p.96 � Getting locked into making a product that you think the public will want only robs you of authenticity. I can’t start a project of I’m focused on what critics will say or what listeners might think because that type of attitude only serves to override my natural instincts, which is a much more powerful and direct source of inspiration.
This is not to be mixed up with acts of collaboration or receiving feedback, which are helpful tools. Rather, I’m talking about when you allow external opinions to permeate your creative process before you even get started; that’s how you wind up ignoring the Goosebump Test. I swear by this assessment because I get goosebumps every time something really touches me: music, movies, poetry, all of it. If I don’t feel it, then there’s nothing to talk about. I believe I acquired this skill having started out in the world of jazz, because jazz is born out of improvisation. It’s fast-paced art form that demands you to create on the spot, leaving no room for second guessing. And it’s completely built around feeling.
Note E: The Power of Being Under-Estimated
p.103 � If people overestimate you, they get in your way, but if they underestimate you, they get out. For example, if people place high expectations on you, the pressure of trying to avoid failure can become a significant distraction to your progress. If there are no, or low, expectations placed on you, then you have the freedom to create without scrutiny.
p.104 � Learning this lesson has been invaluable in my career because instead of thinking I’ve been set up to fall short, I view it as though I’ve been uniquely positioned to surpass the bars that have been set for me.
p.105 � Don’t walk around boasting that you’re the “best� because your work will speak for itself. Instead of chasing fame, lean into your time of obscurity, or position of unexpected greatness, to plan and prepare for your next endeavor. The time of least attention is often when you can see the most clearly, without having the opinions of others as a distraction.
Note F: Do What’s Never Been Done Before
p.127-128 � I have to warn you though: Big dreams don’t come without big failures. Things will get tough and you will make mistakes. Repeatedly. We’re human and we’re going to flounder, but it’s what you can do to get back up that matters.
p.128 � Success is a cumulative process; it’s not a one-time event.
p.129 � It’s important to set lofty dreams in order to avoid outgrowing them because an ego is really just an overdressed insecurity.
Note F#: Understand the Value of Relationships
p.132 � You must have humility with your creativity, and grace with your success.
p.141 � Personally, I make a conscious decision to only work with collaborators I know to be genuine and trustworthy individuals.
Note G: Share What you Know
p.158 � As the saying goes, “We go faster alone but further together.�
Note G #: Recognize the Value of Life
p.172 � Recycle your pain, if you can see it you can be it, go to know, establish your guideposts, always be prepared for a great opportunity, sharpen your left brain, avoid paralysis from analysis, understand the power of being underestimated, do what’s never been done before, value relationships, and most important, recognize the beauty and inherent value of life. And tell your family � I’m not just talking about blood relatives � that you love them. Yell your friends you miss them. Be there for people, not only when they need you, but even when they don’t.
p.173 � At the end of the day, give life you full attention.
By transforming my mindset into one that’s being present and grateful for every moment, I’ve found that the quality of my life and work has immensely improved.
p.10 � Creativity allows us to leave parts of our experiences and out hearts with those on the receiving end. And whether it’s now, or long after we’ve left this planet, I believe there’s a reason for it all.
p.13 � We need you, your gifts, and your talents.
Note B: You Gotta Go to Know
p.29-30 � Immersing yourself in the native culture of a particular place is an incredibly important aspect of life as it ultimately prevents you from trying to force your culture onto everybody else. We are all guilty of trying to compress others into what we are familiar with, but it’s time to get rid of the I-me-mine mentality, and start focusing on “we,� “us,� and “ours.� Not only does it make out communal human experience a more meaningful one, but it also provides a richer well of knowledge to draw from, making us more creative individuals.
p.30 � For example, my creativity comes from my experiences, and without experiencing more of the world, I would only be able to create from a limited perspective. Think about “We Are the World,� the 1985 charity single we produced that went on to become the bestselling single of all time. There’s no way I could’ve been a part of that if I didn’t truly immerse myself in what the world was going through, including poverty, hunger, strife, and a myriad of ailments. How can you expect to create art that transcends cultural boundaries if you yourself aren’t even able to relate to someone on the other side of your city? One of the main ways I have been able to achieve this is by travelling and directly immersing myself in other cultures � from the language to the food to the music.
Note D: Sharpen Your Left Brain
p.83 � Having done this time and again, I’m tellin� you: if you want to create art that invades the subconscious mind and leaves a long-lasting impact, you’ve for to have the proper blend of soul and science.
Note D# [sharp]: Avoid Paralysis from Analysis
p.87 � There still needs to be a balance of science and soul. Otherwise, you may fall into the trap of paralysis form analysis. In other words, you may get so caught up in your own thoughts, or logistics thereof, that you end up suffocating your artistry.
p.88 � I don’t think you can write or create anything worthwhile if you suppress your instincts and emotions. You’ve got to be sitting deep in truth in order to create truth.
I’ve learned how to navigate the process of getting out of my own way through a variety of methods, but I’ve distilled them into four points which I hope will be helpful as you try to weigh through your creativity and learn how to do the same. It pretty much comes down to:
1. Not putting yourself in a box
2. Listening to your gut instincts
3. The Goosebump Test
4. A great song and story
p.92 � We so often dismiss our greatest ideas, thinking they’re supposed to make some type of grand entrance when, in reality, they may often just present themselves in the form of a whisper. This is why it is essential to quiet your conscious mind and instead tap into your subconscious mind � the part that guides your intuition and ability to hear those whispers.
It has been scientifically stated that humans operate in either “alpha� or “beta� mental states when awake, meaning that our brains are in a state of calm or rest (alpha) or highly active (beta). Knowing this, I’ve decided that I don’t believe in writer’s block. It’s not a block; rather, it’s the need to move into an alpha state so you can hear what your heart is trying to tell you.
p.93 � Only then can you quiet your conscious mind and tap into your subconscious, which helps you think more clearly without internal judgement. Have you ever wondered why children speak their minds with no inhibition? It’s because their brainwaves are at an alpha frequency!
Whenever I need to write a significant amount of music or just get unstuck, I’ll lie down with my back on the floor, legs up on the bed, and I have my music pad and pencil ready to go. After I’ve relaxed just enough, and find myself slipping into an alpha state, I’ll write whatever comes to me.
p.94 � So, whenever you hear that whisper, you better write it down.
Learning this method of creation largely influenced my ability to turn out so much music because I didn’t allow myself to block what was naturally coming through me. I believe we are a terminal for a higher power, and that your creativity comes through you, not solely from you. Regardless of individual beliefs, if we’re not keeping ourselves open to what was being transmitted through us, then we risk missing the whispers.
p.95 � Creativity is informed by what you feel, not what you think, and learning to tune into those feelings is ultimately what is going to carry you through when distractions come.
p.96 � Getting locked into making a product that you think the public will want only robs you of authenticity. I can’t start a project of I’m focused on what critics will say or what listeners might think because that type of attitude only serves to override my natural instincts, which is a much more powerful and direct source of inspiration.
This is not to be mixed up with acts of collaboration or receiving feedback, which are helpful tools. Rather, I’m talking about when you allow external opinions to permeate your creative process before you even get started; that’s how you wind up ignoring the Goosebump Test. I swear by this assessment because I get goosebumps every time something really touches me: music, movies, poetry, all of it. If I don’t feel it, then there’s nothing to talk about. I believe I acquired this skill having started out in the world of jazz, because jazz is born out of improvisation. It’s fast-paced art form that demands you to create on the spot, leaving no room for second guessing. And it’s completely built around feeling.
Note E: The Power of Being Under-Estimated
p.103 � If people overestimate you, they get in your way, but if they underestimate you, they get out. For example, if people place high expectations on you, the pressure of trying to avoid failure can become a significant distraction to your progress. If there are no, or low, expectations placed on you, then you have the freedom to create without scrutiny.
p.104 � Learning this lesson has been invaluable in my career because instead of thinking I’ve been set up to fall short, I view it as though I’ve been uniquely positioned to surpass the bars that have been set for me.
p.105 � Don’t walk around boasting that you’re the “best� because your work will speak for itself. Instead of chasing fame, lean into your time of obscurity, or position of unexpected greatness, to plan and prepare for your next endeavor. The time of least attention is often when you can see the most clearly, without having the opinions of others as a distraction.
Note F: Do What’s Never Been Done Before
p.127-128 � I have to warn you though: Big dreams don’t come without big failures. Things will get tough and you will make mistakes. Repeatedly. We’re human and we’re going to flounder, but it’s what you can do to get back up that matters.
p.128 � Success is a cumulative process; it’s not a one-time event.
p.129 � It’s important to set lofty dreams in order to avoid outgrowing them because an ego is really just an overdressed insecurity.
Note F#: Understand the Value of Relationships
p.132 � You must have humility with your creativity, and grace with your success.
p.141 � Personally, I make a conscious decision to only work with collaborators I know to be genuine and trustworthy individuals.
Note G: Share What you Know
p.158 � As the saying goes, “We go faster alone but further together.�
Note G #: Recognize the Value of Life
p.172 � Recycle your pain, if you can see it you can be it, go to know, establish your guideposts, always be prepared for a great opportunity, sharpen your left brain, avoid paralysis from analysis, understand the power of being underestimated, do what’s never been done before, value relationships, and most important, recognize the beauty and inherent value of life. And tell your family � I’m not just talking about blood relatives � that you love them. Yell your friends you miss them. Be there for people, not only when they need you, but even when they don’t.
p.173 � At the end of the day, give life you full attention.
By transforming my mindset into one that’s being present and grateful for every moment, I’ve found that the quality of my life and work has immensely improved.
August 5, 2022
To be honest, not sure that it makes sense at all to rate these types of books. A person's advice is personal and personally received.
I found this not that meaningful, mainly because I don't have a personal connection to Quincy Jones.
I liked "coincidence is God's way of staying anonymous"
I found this not that meaningful, mainly because I don't have a personal connection to Quincy Jones.
I liked "coincidence is God's way of staying anonymous"
November 21, 2024
Una más que agradable sorpresa. Me animé con este libro como parte del trabajo de desarrollo personal de una nueva etapa en la que llevo un tiempo enfrascado. Obviamente, el ser amante de la música fue un motivo de peso que llamó mi atención y con él pensé llevar a un nivel más creativo y musical mi exploración personal. Nada más lejos de la realidad, pero sinceramente no esperaba emocionarme con unas anécdotas e historias de superación con las Quincy Jones llena sus páginas, en mi opinión, de una larga lista de consejos (notas musicales) que son entonados con afilada profesionalidad y van directos al corazón.
Azares del destino o no, este libro quiso llegar a mis oídos (pues en este caso lo he escuchado) el mismo día en el que se anunciaba su fallecimiento.
Un par de días antes había acudido a un concierto de Jacob Collier, su pupilo, pero también profesor de armonía, y su música fue la primera referencia que yo tuve para querer adentrarme en la gigantesca figura de Quincy Jones.
Y es que creo que este libro más allá de sus consejos, inspira y da ánimos para creer en el poder de la música, esforzarse en trabajo bien hecho como camino para la realizacion personal y sobretodo, la importancia de vivir conectados con todas las personas del mundo.
Azares del destino o no, este libro quiso llegar a mis oídos (pues en este caso lo he escuchado) el mismo día en el que se anunciaba su fallecimiento.
Un par de días antes había acudido a un concierto de Jacob Collier, su pupilo, pero también profesor de armonía, y su música fue la primera referencia que yo tuve para querer adentrarme en la gigantesca figura de Quincy Jones.
Y es que creo que este libro más allá de sus consejos, inspira y da ánimos para creer en el poder de la música, esforzarse en trabajo bien hecho como camino para la realizacion personal y sobretodo, la importancia de vivir conectados con todas las personas del mundo.
March 17, 2022
12 NOTES On LIFE AND CREATIVITY
by Quincy Jones
ABRAMS, Abrams Image.
Pub Date: Apr 5
One of the most talented persons on the planet, producer-musician Quincy Jones, illuminates the creative process in this wonderful book for anyone interested in self-expression. He shares from his long storied experience, plus that of many talented collaborators, and gives practical and inspiring instruction on living a fruitful creative life. Highly recommended!
Thanks to the author, ABRAMS Books, and NetGalley for the digital ARC. Opinions are mine.
#12Notes #QuincyJones #ABRAMS #NetGalley #creativity #thecreativelife #bookstagramcommunity
by Quincy Jones
ABRAMS, Abrams Image.
Pub Date: Apr 5
One of the most talented persons on the planet, producer-musician Quincy Jones, illuminates the creative process in this wonderful book for anyone interested in self-expression. He shares from his long storied experience, plus that of many talented collaborators, and gives practical and inspiring instruction on living a fruitful creative life. Highly recommended!
Thanks to the author, ABRAMS Books, and NetGalley for the digital ARC. Opinions are mine.
#12Notes #QuincyJones #ABRAMS #NetGalley #creativity #thecreativelife #bookstagramcommunity
July 19, 2022
beautifully wise and unpretentious.
i especially recommend this for high-achievers and trauma response workaholics, regardless of profession.
� at it’s (rarely) worse passages teeter on redundancy with oldhead “lemme tell you something youngblood� rants.
� at it’s best i finished chapters feeling like my perspective of what really matters in life was refocused.
reading a certified GOAT give insights and guidance in such a humble way moved me.
thank you Quincy!!
4.5/5
i especially recommend this for high-achievers and trauma response workaholics, regardless of profession.
� at it’s (rarely) worse passages teeter on redundancy with oldhead “lemme tell you something youngblood� rants.
� at it’s best i finished chapters feeling like my perspective of what really matters in life was refocused.
reading a certified GOAT give insights and guidance in such a humble way moved me.
thank you Quincy!!
4.5/5
July 20, 2024
Different perspective than his earlier book. I liked it.
November 27, 2024
Really enjoyed this for a music infused point of view on life from one of the greats.
July 4, 2022
I only read this book because of the foreword, which is by one of my favorite artists, The Weeknd. He has a song called, "A Tale by Quincy", which describes Quincy's childhood. So, I was interested in Quincy's philosophy and his allure as an artist and person. "12 Notes" is a self-help book, with each lesson being a new musical note. The organization was certainly unique, as was the content. Quincy has a lot of valuable advice and wisdom to share, and a fascinating life story that he touches on throughout the book. A good read whether or not you need to keep up on your reading challenge (it's under 200 pages) or you want to learn about Quincy Adams.
April 26, 2024
Overall a good book with some good insights and inspirational quotes.
I just wished that it was less about the author and more about creativity.
Chapters are small (10 pages on average) but only 1 page or so per chapter was actually about some kind of insight while the rest was about Quincy Jone’s life experiences � which is fine and interesting too! But there’s an autobiography already so I guess I was not expecting a book about creativity to be so focused in the author’s life.
There’s also a lot of chat about music � technically speaking � which, for someone very ignorant in that matter as I am, was sometimes of boring.
I’ll give it 3,5 stars �
I just wished that it was less about the author and more about creativity.
Chapters are small (10 pages on average) but only 1 page or so per chapter was actually about some kind of insight while the rest was about Quincy Jone’s life experiences � which is fine and interesting too! But there’s an autobiography already so I guess I was not expecting a book about creativity to be so focused in the author’s life.
There’s also a lot of chat about music � technically speaking � which, for someone very ignorant in that matter as I am, was sometimes of boring.
I’ll give it 3,5 stars �
December 23, 2022
There’s some good stories in here, and some good ideas, but it just doesn’t come together in the end. I really like Quincy’s music and story, but this needed quite a bit of editing and some more cohesion between his stories and lessons.
May 17, 2024
What a wholesome book!
Despite knowing nothing about music, I found this book delightful and inspiring.
Bought a hard copy to gift to my son who loves music with hopes that many of the nuggets of wisdom on life will touch him as well :)
Despite knowing nothing about music, I found this book delightful and inspiring.
Bought a hard copy to gift to my son who loves music with hopes that many of the nuggets of wisdom on life will touch him as well :)
October 10, 2022
Great inspiration for living a better life with mature advice for creativity and to master your craft!
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
February 15, 2023
Short and sweet - Quincy shines through
September 29, 2023
Sometimes old people have so much wisdom in them, it’s just wise to listen to them and take their word for it.
February 11, 2024
As someone in the music field, this book felt like a mentorship AND a hug
May 1, 2024
This was SO good. Loved the voice of narrator JD Jackson. Incredible story of what Quincy Jones went through - and overcame.
January 19, 2025
A really powerful book that draws on Q’s professional and personal experiences to provide a really well crafted guide on how to approach your creative endeavours but even more so how to live, and how living fully is creative and the best thing for your creativity. Felt like I spent the last 2 weeks with Quincy ❤️
Read this or watch his dockt hug your loved ones and keep on keepin�
Read this or watch his dockt hug your loved ones and keep on keepin�
February 9, 2025
New all time favorite book. Everyone’s creative, not just artists or musicians. If anyone tells your there’s a formula or road map to success they’re full of shiz. Surround yourself with genuine people.
“Life is a beautiful responsibility, but it’s also a beautiful burden�
“Life is a beautiful responsibility, but it’s also a beautiful burden�
March 17, 2025
Absolutely legendary
April 11, 2022
There is so much wisdom in these pages. Must-read for anyone doing creative work.
April 5, 2022
This quick read is reminiscent of conversations you’d have with your grandfather about life, love, and success, if your grandfather happened to be Quincy Jones.
He has worked with so many legends in the past 70 plus years that you will lose count of all of them. He seems sharper than most and isn’t name dropping; this is and has been his life.
He has written a life lesson for each of the 12 notes and shares the highs and lows of his life. It’s gets personal with details of visiting his mentally ill mother during childhood, being a traveling musician during segregation, and getting caught in a war in France.
It’s a good read for fans of music, history, and Quincy Jones.
Thanks to NetGalley and Abrams Image for an ARC of this book.
He has worked with so many legends in the past 70 plus years that you will lose count of all of them. He seems sharper than most and isn’t name dropping; this is and has been his life.
He has written a life lesson for each of the 12 notes and shares the highs and lows of his life. It’s gets personal with details of visiting his mentally ill mother during childhood, being a traveling musician during segregation, and getting caught in a war in France.
It’s a good read for fans of music, history, and Quincy Jones.
Thanks to NetGalley and Abrams Image for an ARC of this book.
January 14, 2023
4.5 Stars
July 30, 2024
A very nice and authentic read about a person who believes in hard work, deep knowledge and being a decent human being.
The stories are compelling, as they do with real events and the lessons passed are a good reminder for young and seasoned human beings alike.
The stories are compelling, as they do with real events and the lessons passed are a good reminder for young and seasoned human beings alike.
November 10, 2022
As much as I really really wanted to like this book because the author is so affable and I can tell he is genuine in what he says, the truth is the advice in this book is really basic. I know he says he wasn’t going to give us like a formula for how he got so many Grammy awards, but I was hoping for some kernels of interesting approaches or something new to try, but here’s the advice of this book:
1. Use your pain in your music
2. have hope for bigger things
3. do things outside of your comfort zone
4. don’t forget who you are
5. be prepared
6. practice and learn your craft
7. don’t overthink things and get caught with writers block
8. let people underestimate you so you can do better than they think you are capable of
9. do something that no one else has
10. treat people well and don’t burn bridges
11. find a mentor and be a mentor
12. live life to the fullest
I really wish I could say it went deeper than that, but it really didn’t. And overall, none of that is earth shattering news. I found a few new movies to watch and some albums to listen to, but that’s about it.
1. Use your pain in your music
2. have hope for bigger things
3. do things outside of your comfort zone
4. don’t forget who you are
5. be prepared
6. practice and learn your craft
7. don’t overthink things and get caught with writers block
8. let people underestimate you so you can do better than they think you are capable of
9. do something that no one else has
10. treat people well and don’t burn bridges
11. find a mentor and be a mentor
12. live life to the fullest
I really wish I could say it went deeper than that, but it really didn’t. And overall, none of that is earth shattering news. I found a few new movies to watch and some albums to listen to, but that’s about it.
November 30, 2022
A bit disappointing tbh. Full of self promotion and pats on the back. I get that it's an appeal to authority - do what I did because look how successful I am - but honestly there's a lot of survivor bias. E.g. "you have to go to know" but also I went bankrupt touring France and nearly ruined the lives of myself and my bandmates. It worked out in the end for Quincy, but that's a dangerous bit of advice IMO. Maybe don't risk your life savings and future career just to immerse yourself in a different culture.
There are some good points, like working while tired which increases the chance of something bubbling up from your subconscious, but that isn't anything new. I've heard many other artist describe working this way before .e.g. Madeon.
Generally it sounds like Quincy lead an incredible life, with high highs and low lows, but I'm not going to take much of his advice.
There are some good points, like working while tired which increases the chance of something bubbling up from your subconscious, but that isn't anything new. I've heard many other artist describe working this way before .e.g. Madeon.
Generally it sounds like Quincy lead an incredible life, with high highs and low lows, but I'm not going to take much of his advice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2023
I loved hearing from Q himself - getting a sense of how he learned and navigated his career and the world. This book has a great mix of advice and memoir, all with ideas on how to focus your creativity. It was easy to consume and great to hear from a master.
For where I am in my life, some of these lessons were already apparent. Others were brand new with some very valuable and memorable lessons. If I were already in agreement with a particular "note", I enjoyed the memoir describing it.
Narration is solid. I wouldn't recommend this as a top-tier general self-help book, but if you have any interest in Quincy, Music, or general creativity - it's completely worth it.
For where I am in my life, some of these lessons were already apparent. Others were brand new with some very valuable and memorable lessons. If I were already in agreement with a particular "note", I enjoyed the memoir describing it.
Narration is solid. I wouldn't recommend this as a top-tier general self-help book, but if you have any interest in Quincy, Music, or general creativity - it's completely worth it.
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