Clive Davis, the executive who shaped the music industry for more than 50 years, dies at 94 By Carolina Costa
2 min read
 |
Clive Davis, one of the most influential executives in music history, died this Monday at the age of 94 at his home in Manhattan. The family confirmed the death. He had recently been hospitalized with respiratory problems.
Born in 1932 in Brooklyn, Davis started out as a lawyer and joined Columbia Records in a modest legal position. It rose quickly and, in the 1960s, pushed the record company towards rock, betting on Janis Joplin, Blood, Sweat & Tears and encouraging Miles Davis to dialogue with the Woodstock generation.
After leaving Columbia in 1973, he founded Arista Records in 1974. There, he built empires. He discovered and shaped Whitney Houston, transforming her into one of the greatest pop voices of all time. Launched Barry Manilow, reinvigorated Carlos Santana’s career with the albumSupernatural(which sold tens of millions) and bet early on the commercial potential of hip-hop and R&B.
Legacy that spanned decades and genres
Davis served as chief creative officer of Sony Music Entertainment until the end of his life. Under his command, artists like Alicia Keys, Jennifer Hudson, Aretha Franklin and Rod Stewart had defining moments. He was known for single-mindedly pursuing hits and surviving corporate turnovers, scandals, and radical changes in the industry — from vinyl to streaming.
In 2021, at the age of 89, he was called by then-mayor Bill de Blasio to organize the concert to reopen New York after the pandemic. The event in Central Park was interrupted by a storm, but symbolized its enduring role in the city’s cultural scene.
The executive maintained a striking look, with colorful suits and flashy accessories, and was a constant presence at awards shows. Few non-artists have become names as well known to the public as him.
What changes with your departure
Davis’ death marks the end of an era in which a single executive could set trends for decades. He connected generations: from 60s rock to 80s pop, from 90s R&B to commercial hip-hop. His nose for talent and ability to revive careers have influenced how the industry works today, with an emphasis on artist narratives and album events.
Recently, in May and June 2026, Davis was hospitalized for an upper respiratory infection and was recovering at home. A piora levou à sua morte nesta segunda.
