Quincy Jones’s critique of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs resurfaces amid icon’s death, highlighting music legend’s lasting impact

Quincy Jones’s scathing takedown of accused rapist and rap mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs at a music industry event more than a decade ago has reemerged in the wake of the legendary record producer’s death this week.

The legendary music titan, who has worked with stars including Michael Jackson, died aged 91 on Sunday in Los Angeles.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Creative partnership between Michael Jackson and producer Quincy Jones.

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As news of Jones’s death became public and he was remembered for his remarkable career, comments he made in 2012 revealing what he really thought of Combs are now being recirculated.

The disgraced rapper, 54, faces federal charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution following allegations he hit and abused women for over a decade and presided over an empire of sexual crimes.

Diddy and Quincy Jones. Credit: Johnny Nunez/WireImage

Appearing in conversation with Bruno Mars at a Spotify launch in 2012, Jones said Diddy “wouldn’t know a B-flat if it hit him”, entertainment outlet The Wrap reported at the time.

“P. Diddy has a doctorate in marketing ... He’s got clothes companies and Ciroc vodka,” he told Mars, adding that artists should “learn your craft”.

However at the time following a backlash, Jones posted a clarification on Facebook.

“No controversy, no diss. I have nothing but love and respect for Diddy and all that he has achieved as an artist and an executive. Always have and always will,” he said on Facebook a few days after the event.

Jones has worked with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, Barbra Streisand and Donna Summer.

While Jones has some impressive music credits to his name, he is perhaps most famed for producing Jackson’s Thriller album, which is considered the best selling album of all time, selling 120 million copies.

Jones met Jackson while scoring the film The Wiz, leading to a partnership that brought to life Jackson’s next three albums, Off the Wall, Thriller and Bad.

Michael Jackson with Quincy Jones at the 1984 Grammy Awards. Credit: Chris Walter/WireImage

The pair also worked together with Lionel Richie on We Are The World in 1985.

The dynamic duo went their separate ways after the success of Bad in 1987, with Jackson wanting more independence and creative control and keen to quash the perception his success depended on Jones.

Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, and Lionel Richie after We Are The World won four Grammy Awards. Credit: Bettmann/Bettmann

Jackson’s estate has shared a tribute for Jones in the wake of his death on the official Michael Jackson Instagram page.

“The world mourns the loss and celebrates the life of Quincy Jones. Quincy was a legendary talent whose contributions to music spanned generations and genres,” the statement said.

“What Michael and he achieved over a decade-long partnership is unmatched, producing Off the Wall, Bad, and, of course, Thriller that remains the biggest-selling album of all time.

“In addition, Michael, Lionel Richie and Quincy collaborated with multiple superstars to produce the charity single, We Are The World that raised more than $60 million to fight famine in Africa.

“But it was Quincy’s role as a father that was the most important to him. Condolences to all of his children. Rest in Peace, Q. You will be missed.”

Richie also shared a tribute, writing, “Wow, Q — What a great ride!! With love always”.

Jones is survived by his seven children.