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Storied record label executive and GRAMMY-winning record producer Clive Davis has passed away at the age of 94, his rep confirmed to LA Times. Davis was recently hospitalized for respiratory issues, though the cause of death was not immediately available.
During his 60-plus year career in the music industry, Davis moved from a legal role at Columbia Records to signing Janis Joplin, Santana, Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith, and Earth, Wind & Fire for the label. After he was fired for alleged misuse of funds, Davis founded Arista Records, signing Barry Manilow, Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick, and Whitney Houston, among others. He would go on to found J Records, become CEO of RCA, and then transitioned to his most recent role of chief creative officer at Sony Music.
In a statement, the Davis family said in part, “our father was the iconic music legend whose vision, instincts and relentless pursuit of excellence shaped the soundtrack of countless lives. He discovered, mentored and championed the greatest artists in modern music history, leaving an indelible mark on culture that will endure for generations.”