Clive Davis
Legendary Music Executive, Clive Davis has passed away at the age of 94.
Davis was a top record exec who made a name for himself while overseeing the roster of talent at Columbia Records, Arista Records, and J Records. He discovered and signed Whitney Houston while helping to shape the careers of Barry Manilow, Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Kelly Clarkson, Aerosmith, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Janis Joplin, Santana and countless others.
Davis died Monday at his Manhattan home, his family issued has issued a statement posted to social media.
To the world, our father was the iconic music legend whose vision, instincts, and relentless pursuit of excellence shaped the soundtrack of countless lives. He discovered, mentored, and championed the greatest artists in modern music history, leaving an indelible mark on culture that will endure for generations.
To his family, Clive was Dad and Granddaddy, the steady presence at the center of our lives, the source of wisdom, strength, encouragement, and unconditional love. No matter how extraordinary his professional accomplishments, he never lost sight of what mattered most: the people he loved.
Through every chapter of his remarkable life, family remained Clive’s greatest pride and deepest joy.
Today, we celebrate not only a towering figure whose influence changed music forever, but the man who led our family with grace, generosity, and kindness. We will miss him greatly, cherish him always, and carry his love with us for the rest of our lives.
-The Davis Family
Sony Music Group Chairman Rob Stringer also said in a statement: “Clive of course played a seminal role in the story of Sony Music through two incredible chapters, and he is responsible for a huge part of the recorded legacy of the company permanently. Not only are many, many artists we represent continuously indebted to his service but so many staff members have been influenced and mentored by his deep love and respect for our company which he carried right up until today. Our working lives are better for having had his constant presence in the aura and perception of Sony Music.”
For more on Clive Davis’ iconic history in the music business visit Variety