Quincy Jones' first bar is opening in Dubai tonight (yes, actually)
Quincy Jones’ first ever bar is opening in Dubai tonight (yes, actually).
Any fans of contemporary music will know of producer, composer and conductor Quincy Jones.
The legend’s career has spanned six decades, and he’s collaborated with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Amy Winehouse, Ray Charles, Whitney Houston, and, of course, Michael Jackson.
So why are we talking about him now? Well, tonight, the producer’s first ever bar, simply called Q’s, will open in the Versace Hotel in Al Jaddaf. Okay, now we’re freaking out with excitement…
The bar will be all mahogany tables and leather chairs – all facing the stage, where world-class, Quincy-approved musicians will perform.
This sounds like the kind of lounge bar we see in movies and dream of visiting, but haven’t seen in Dubai until now.
Who will play there first? Well multi-award winning drummer, instrumentalist and composer Ollie Howell will be the bar’s first official artist in residence, playing there from tonight until February (and throughout the months he’ll be joined by guests).
“Ollie Howell is an unbelievable drummer. So creative, I couldn’t believe it,” says Quincy Jones of the artist. “This kid really is a 360-degree, beautiful young cat that I believe has what it takes to make a life out of music.”
And the bar food? Well, word is it will be inspired by the comfort food of New York and New Orleans. Yum.
Sure, the bar’s opening tonight, but the grand opening party will be on December 8, during which Swedish band the Dirty Loops will play alongside Ollie (and we’re imagining Quincy himself will be there?). Then, on December 9, the Dirty Loops will perform to 60 guests – attending this will cost you Dhs3,000 a person (ouch) but will include a three-course dinner in the fine dining Enigma restaurant with selected beverages, and then bar drinks and petit fours at Q’s.
The Dirty Loops are a bit of a viral sensation thanks to their infectious and intelligent covers…
“They are such an incredible and inventive group; I absolutely cannot wait until Dubai gets a taste,” said Quincy Jones of the Swedes.
We’ll head down to the bar ASAP and let you know what we thought. Watch this space…
The bar will be open Monday to Friday, 6pm to 2am.
Palazzo Versace, Al Jaddaf, Dubai. Tel: (04) 556 8851. More info on website. Dress code: Smart casual. 21 and over only. More info on website.