Jimmy “Big Jim” Wright

James Quentin Wright (born 19 March 1966 – died 29 September 2018) was a prolific American songwriter, musician, arranger, and producer who shaped the sound of R&B, soul, gospel, and pop music throughout the 1990s and 2000s.

Born in Rockford, Illinois, on March 19, 1966, he began his musical journey playing in local churches and graduated from West High School in 1984. He earned his nickname "Big Jim" due to his physical size and was widely respected within the industry for his humility and kindness.

Throughout his illustrious career, Wright collaborated with a roster of iconic artists, including Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Patti LaBelle, and Sting. His work with Mariah Carey was particularly notable, as he contributed three tracks to her multi-platinum album The Emancipation of Mimi, including the hit "Fly Like a Bird". In the realm of gospel, he co-wrote and produced Yolanda Adams' "Open My Heart," which earned an NAACP Image Award, and "Be Blessed," which won the Grammy for Best Gospel Song in 2006.

Beyond the recording studio, Wright made significant contributions to film and television. He served as the executive producer and writer for the film The Fighting Temptations, starring Beyoncé, and held the role of bandleader for BET’s The Mo'Nique Show. James Quentin Wright passed away at his home in Rockford on September 29, 2018, at the age of 52, leaving behind a vast legacy of award-winning musical hits.