Clive Davis, the legendary music producer who discovered and shaped the careers of icons such as Janis Joplin, Whitney Houston, Billy Joel, and Santana, has died at the age of 94. His family confirmed his death in a social media post, and his publicist also confirmed the news to CNN.
Family Remembers a Towering Figure
Davis’s family remembered him as both “a towering figure whose influence changed music forever” and “the man who led our family with grace, generosity, and kindness.” According to Rolling Stone, Davis was hospitalized in late May for an upper respiratory issue but was discharged earlier this month and was recovering.
From Harvard Law to Columbia Records
Born in Brooklyn, Davis never intended to lead a life in music. After his parents died when he was in his late teens, he graduated from Harvard Law School and became a lawyer. He joined Columbia Records in 1960, and within five years, he became the label’s top lawyer and was soon named president. “I was thrust into it,” he told CNN in 2013. “Never knowing I had a natural ear and gift for music that would become the passion of my life.”
First Major Signing: Janis Joplin
Davis’s first major signing was Janis Joplin, whom he first saw perform at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967. This marked the beginning of a career that would see him discover and nurture some of the most iconic artists in music history.
