Composer Daniel Jones has Died, Aged 41

An accomplished pianist, composer, director, and producer, Jones worked with artists including Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, and Beyoncé

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Daniel Jones attended the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, where he studied keyboard, composition, and music production. 

In addition to his professional work, Jones was passionate about nurturing young talents and often emphasized the importance of a good mentor, reported the Miami Times. The cause of his death was not disclosed. 

An acclaimed figure in the music industry, Jones served as the musical director for singer Janet Jackson and was involved in projects, including the Super Bowl LII Halftime Show with Justin Timberlake, Mary J. Blige’s “Good Morning Gorgeous” tour, and Beyoncé’s “Sorry.” 

He was also a collaborator of pianist Robert Glasper, singer Erykah Badu, and singer-songwriter Durand Bernarr.

Working as a musical director for Janet Jackson, Jones was part of the singer’s 2017 “State of the World Tour,” and completed her “Together Again Tour” in June 2023. In the same role, Jones also worked on Timberlake’s 2018 “Man of the Woods” tour.

In addition to working with artists such as Eminem, Rihanna, The Weeknd, Demi Lovato, and Jay-Z, Jones has credits as a songwriter and composer for Beyoncé and Rihanna. 

“The past few days have been incredibly challenging for us as a family. Daniel Jones was more than an incredible talent, he was a brother, an energy, a light,” Jackson wrote on Facebook. “While his time here with us was cut short, his memory will live on strong and forever. We are all so blessed to have known you. May you rest in eternal paradise.”

“There are a handful of guys on keys that I trust musically, and you certainly were one of them,” said jazz artist Shedrick Mitchell in the Dallas Observer. “You could take care of business from a small church all the way up to rocking out in a stadium, and certainly everything in between. Rest now Maestro, you’ve put in enough work, and your musical legacy will certainly live on! I’m just not quite ready to accept this! Love you Daniel Jones. Never forgotten!”

A visitation and musical tribute for Jones will be held on August 4, 2023, at the Disciple Central Community Church. On the following day, a “Home Going Celebration” will be held at the Friendship West Baptist Church in Dallas. 

Jones is survived by his wife, their 12-year-old son, and 21-year-old stepson. Our condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.