Clive Davis, the influential record executive who shaped the careers of artists including Whitney Houston and Bruce Springsteen, died on Monday at his home in Manhattan. He was 94. His death was confirmed by his representative, who said he passed away peacefully surrounded by family.
Davis rose through the ranks at Columbia Records before founding Arista Records in 1974 and J Records in 2000. He later served as chief creative officer at Sony Music Entertainment. His work launched or revitalized the careers of many stars across decades.
Family members described him as an iconic music legend whose vision shaped the soundtrack of countless lives. They noted his role as a devoted father and grandfather.
Tributes poured in from industry figures and artists. Rod Stewart credited Davis with believing in a rock singer performing standards. Bruce Springsteen recalled that Davis treated him with respect from the start of his career. Carlos Santana called him a visionary who encouraged artists to trust their voices.
Barry Manilow remembered their 50-year collaboration and said Davis treated colleagues like family. Patti Smith thanked him for believing in her and providing decades of support.