Dionne Warwick, Bruce Springsteen and Alicia Keys were among several superstar musicians who paid tribute to Clive Davis at his funeral on Monday (6.29.)
In celebrating the life of the legendary record executive and producer, who helped launch the careers of some of the biggest names in music, a cavalcade of legendary artists, actors and public figures gathered at Manhattan’s Central Synagogue.
One of the many artists signed by Davis during his illustrious career, the funeral service opened with a performance by Kenny G,
Reflecting on her decades-long friendship with Davis, music icon Warwick was among the first to speak”There was not anything that he ever did that I didn’t get the first phone call: ‘You will be there right?’ … He was always asking, ‘Where’s my Dionne?’ Well, I’m here today, Clive. Will always be here for you.”
Visibly emotional as she initially stood with her back to the audience and wiped away tears, Alicia Keys shared that Davis changed her life “forever,:” and praised the record executive for standing by her throughout her career and being “full of love”.
Springsteen described Davis as a “great man” and told mourners he had been treated with “respect and kindness” by the music mogul from the very beginning of their relationship, adding that Davis had never missed one of his New York performances and had most recently attended a three-hour show at the age of 94.
In honor of the late music executive, who discovered Whitney Houston and played a pivotal role in turning her into one of the biggest stars in music history.” Jennifer Hudson performed Houston’s signature hit ‘I Will Always Love You.’
Barry Manilow and Stevie Wonder, both of whom worked closely with Davis during their careers, were among the other music stars who attending the Manhattan service.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Oscar-winning actor Adrien Brody and television personalities Hoda Kotb and Gayle King were also among the notable figures paying their respects.
Weeks after being hospitalized with an upper respiratory illness, Clive Davis passed on June 22 at the age of 94 at his New York City apartment.
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Author: Al Dente
Photo: Associated Press – Public Domain