Legendary Music Executive Clive Davis Dies at 94

Clive Davis, the legendary music producer and executive associated with Columbia, Arista and J Records, died today at his home in Manhattan at the age of 94. He was regarded as one of the most influential figures in the music industry over the past half century.

A Harvard law graduate, Davis began his career as a lawyer but became famous for his musical instincts. In 1967, at age 35, he was named president of Columbia Records and turned the label into a major force in rock by signing breakthrough acts including Janis Joplin, Bruce Springsteen and Carlos Santana.

His career also had major setbacks. He was fired from Columbia in 1973 amid allegations of improper use of company funds and later admitted tax evasion. Even so, he staged a remarkable comeback by founding Arista, where he discovered and nurtured Whitney Houston, one of the best-selling singers of all time. In his 70s, he launched J Records and boosted Alicia Keys’ career.

Beyond his professional achievements, Davis was known for his lavish lifestyle and his annual pre-Grammy party, which became a major power gathering for the music and political elite in the United States. He won five Grammy Awards for his contribution to the industry and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. Until his final days, he served as chief creative officer of Sony Music. Davis was married and divorced twice, left behind four children, and at age 80 published his memoir, The Soundtrack of My Life, in which he came out as bisexual.