NEW YORK (WABC) — Clive Davis, the legendary music executive whose instincts helped shape generations of popular music, has died in New York City at the age of 94.
His family said Davis died peacefully at his Manhattan home following an age-related illness. He was surrounded by relatives and loved ones.
A graduate of New York University and Harvard Law School, Davis built one of the most influential careers in the history of the recording business. He became president of Columbia Records in 1967 and later founded Arista Records in 1974, cementing his place as one of the industry’s defining power brokers.
Davis was credited with helping guide the rise and success of a remarkable roster of artists. The list includes:
Janis Joplin, Blood, Sweat and Tears, Chicago, Carlos Santana, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith, Earth, Wind & Fire, Simon & Garfunkel, Sly & The Family Stone, Barbra Streisand, Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Barry Manilow, Whitney Houston, Gil Scott-Heron, Patti Smith, Foo Fighters, Sarah McLachlan, Aretha Franklin, Annie Lennox, The Kinks, The Grateful Dead, Dionne Warwick, Carly Simon, Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Toni Braxton, Notorious B.I.G., Alicia Keys, Maroon 5, Luther Vandross, Rod Stewart, Kenny G, Usher and Jennifer Hudson.
Known worldwide as the “Man with the Golden Ears,” Davis was widely regarded as a visionary executive, producer and tastemaker. Over six decades at the highest levels of the music business, his influence stretched across Pop, Rock and Roll, R&B, Country and Hip-Hop.
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In a statement, his family reflected on both his towering professional legacy and his devotion to those closest to him.
“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.”
Davis is survived by his children Fred, Doug, Mitchell and Lauren, eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren and more.
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