Music Mogul With Golden Ear for Talent Was 94

Key Points:

• Clive Davis, a legendary music executive known for discovering and nurturing iconic artists such as Janis Joplin, Whitney Houston, and Bruce Springsteen, died at age 94 in Manhattan after recent hospitalization for an upper respiratory infection.
• Over a six-decade career, Davis led major labels including Columbia, Arista, and J Records, earning five Grammys and a reputation for revitalizing careers and spotting unique talent, influencing the music industry profoundly.
• Despite a career setback in 1973 when he was fired from Columbia amid expense-account allegations, Davis rebounded by founding Arista Records, signing major acts like Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston, and later partnering with influential labels like LaFace and Bad Boy Records.
• Davis played a key role in launching the careers of artists from multiple generations, including Alicia Keys, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, and Leona Lewis, and was instrumental in recognizing the commercial potential of TV music competitions like American Idol.
• Remembered as both a music visionary and devoted family man, Davis founded the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at NYU and was honored posthumously by family and industry peers for his lasting cultural impact and personal kindness.