The inaugural Gala also honored music icon Quincy Jones, sports legend Evander Holyfield, and NFL veteran Devon Still.
Celebrating the Architects of Song: Spotify Secret Genius Awards Honor Quincy Jones and the creative individuals behind the year’s most successful songs…
Quincy Jones and JBL introduced the world to an innovative audio experience with a VIP event at Village Recorder Studios in Los Angeles. Tastemakers and industry leaders hoped to get a taste of the next big thing in premium listening. They were not disappointed.
The E55BT Quincy Edition Headphone is a special edition over-ear wireless headphone that features customized EQ tuning and voice prompts from Quincy Jones himself. The music and culture legend spoke passionately about the impact he hopes to make.
“Passion. It’s called growing as you go. And that’s always been my dream,” he said. He stressed the E55BTs sound great no matter what music you’re listening to.
“Jazz and Classical music is not the same as EDM and disco, but that [headphone] right there takes care of the sound in every strata.”
An elite roster of creative influencers were on hand and served as official parts of the rollout.
Singer-songwriter Yuna, Singers/Musicians Chloe x Halle, Fashion Veteran Josh Pekowitz, Artist Mark Anthony Green, Musical Artist Masego and Designer Melody Ehsani all attended the event and filmed one-on-one video sessions with Quincy at his home.
Each of them radiated cool and kindness as they made the rounds, pausing only for a photo shoot with Quincy at the center. Jones played the role of icon passing the torch to the younger generation.
I gave the headphones a test drive and right off the bat noticed how comfortable they are. They have ergonomic ear cushions that are soft as down feathers yet supportive as a well-loved mattress.
The sound I heard was crisp and clear. These headphones pick up small details and louder, jutting sounds with equal deftness. The EQ was perfect on the pair I picked up. I could’ve listened to those songs for hours on end.
The event was equal parts headphone launch and celebration of Jones’ legacy. He passed priceless wisdom on to the rapt audience.
“I’ve never done music in my life for money or fame, never,” he said. “If you’re doing it for money or fame, you’ll find yourself in trouble.”
I’ll be taking those words with me.
Jonathan Tolliver is a journalist and singer/songwriter based in Los Angeles. You can listen to his music here and here.
Our very own @Tolliv3r with @QuincyDJones @JBLaudio #JBLxQuincy party tonight! #la pic.twitter.com/C4QKxzJEo9
— The Knockturnal (@_TheKnockturnal) May 20, 2017
Photo Credit: Dorothy Hong / Team Epiphany
Harman and Quincy Jones proudly unveiled their latest project to a group of music enthusiasts and writers from across the globe in New York City on Friday afternoon.