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 Notes is 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.

Readers Top Reviews

Literary Redheadm

12 NOTES On LIFE AND CREATIVITY by Quincy Jones ABRAMS, Abrams Image 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!

Gezim GashiLitera

What an inspiring book. I work in entertainment education and recommending it to all of my students! This book is incredible!

*TUDOR^QUEEN*Gezi

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.

Alexander William

Just arrived today at my door 🚪 steps. Going to read and get some good game from the lengendary Q. Can't wait to read it.

Quincy Jones Prod

So excited that these pieces of wisdom can finally make their way into the world.