In a heartfelt tribute to his late sister, DeOndra Dixon, Jamie Foxx turned to legendary music producer Quincy Jones to express his gratitude for the impact he had on her life. Dixon, who had Down syndrome, passed away in October 2020 at the age of 36.
During a virtual event for the Quincy Jones MusiQology Foundation, Foxx shared memories of his sister and thanked Jones for his role in making her feel like a superstar. “You allowed her to feel like she was a superstar,” Foxx said. “You allowed her to have that feeling that she could do anything.”
Foxx also reminisced about the time Dixon joined him on stage at the Grammys in 2010, where she stole the show with her dance moves. “She was so excited to be there and to be a part of it,” Foxx recalled. “And I remember you [Jones] saying, ‘She’s a star, she’s a star.'”
Jones, who has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Michael Jackson and Frank Sinatra, was deeply moved by Foxx’s words. “I’m so touched by what you said, Jamie,” he responded. “I’m so happy that I was able to be a part of her life and make her feel like she was a star.”
Foxx and Jones have been longtime friends and collaborators, with Foxx portraying Jones in the 2004 biopic Ray. The two also worked together on the 2010 album Q: Soul Bossa Nostra, which featured a track with Foxx and Dixon singing together.
Dixon’s passing was a devastating loss for Foxx and his family, but he continues to honor her memory and the impact she had on his life. “She was my heart,” Foxx said. “She was my superstar. She was my everything.”
Through his tribute to Dixon, Foxx not only expressed his love for his sister but also highlighted the importance of inclusion and acceptance for individuals with disabilities. Jones’ role in Dixon’s life serves as a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and make them feel special.