On Monday (6.22,), a representative for the Davis family announced that music industry icon Clive Davis had passed away at the age of 94.
Though the cause of death was not disclosed, earlier this month, the legendary producer was hospitalized after developing an upper respiratory infection.
“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,” stated the family.
Born in Brooklyn in 1932, Davis started his career as a lawyer before becoming involved in the music industry, where he was tapped to lead a new unit at CBS Records. Among the artists he signed in the 1960s were Janis Joplin, Santana, Bruce Springsteen, Chicago, and Billy Joel.
After being let go from CBS due to financial matters, Davis founded Arista Records in 1974, during which time he worked with singers including Aretha Franklin, Barry Manilow, Dionne Warwick, Whitney Houston, and Patti Smith, among many others.
Throughout his career, the entertainment industry stalwart won five Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, as a non-performer, in 2000, and he served as chief creative officer of Sony Music Entertainment from 2008 until his passing.
“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 family added.
Clive was married to Helen Cohen from 1956 to 1965 and to Janet Adelberg from 1965 to 1985, and he is survived by four children and eight grandchildren.
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Author: Saul Goode
Photo: U.S. Department of State – Public Domain