August 01, 2007

By By Chris M. Walsh, N.Y.

Quincy Jones says the one thing he never wants to do is grow up. The legendary music man keeps himself young by embracing today's culture. This week, he debuted his new video podcast series, the first installment aptly called 'Episode 1.'

The first season will feature at least 26 episodes. Done in partnership with podcast aggregator and distributor Wizzard Media, the series features a behind-the-scenes look at Jones at work in the recording studio and also chronicles his involvement in film, popular culture, politics and events around the world.

"Episode 1" takes fans inside the studio with Jones and super star Celine Dion to record "I Knew I Loved You" for the tribute album "We All Love Ennio Morricone." The song was originally the instrumental theme of the 1984 film "Once Upon a Time in America," starring Robert DeNiro. This new Quincy-produced version was first performed publicly by Celine on this year's Academy Awards telecast to pay tribute to Morricone who was feted with an honorary Oscar.

Over the weekend Jones was feted at the Grammy Foundation's Starry Night gala in Los Angeles as the ambassador of the Recording Academy's 50th celebration. Robert De Niro, Gayle King, Naomi Campbell, Patti LaBelle and Kanye West, were among those who paid tribute. Over $1 million was raised to support the Grammy Foundation, setting a record for the event.

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