Clive Davis has died at the age of 94, his family confirmed on Wednesday.
The former head of Arista Records passed away in his Manhattan home, surrounded by loved ones. He had been in hospital recently for respiratory issues before recovering at his residence.
His career spanned seven decades. Born in Brooklyn in 1932, he attended Harvard Law on a full scholarship but entered the music business without prior knowledge. At 28, he joined Columbia Records and took night classes to understand copyright law, contracts and litigation. He was promoted to vice-president in 1965 and later became president of the label.
During his tenure, Davis signed Santana, Aerosmith and Pink Floyd. He also produced and played Stanley Tucci in the Whitney Houston biopic, I Wanna Dance With Somebody. His accolades include five Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a non-performer in 2000.
Family statement
A statement released by his family, via the BBC, described him as an iconic music legend whose vision shaped countless lives.
They said he discovered, mentored and championed the greatest artists in modern music history, leaving an indelible mark on culture that will endure for generations.
To his family, Davis was Dad and Granddaddy, the steady presence at the centre of their lives. They called him the source of wisdom, strength, encouragement and unconditional love.
Industry tributes
Bruce Springsteen wrote on his website that Davis changed his life when he signed him to Columbia Records at 22.
Springsteen said Davis treated him with the same respect and kindness as a 22-year-old nobody as he did after all his success. He called Davis a great man and said all their prayers and love were with his family.
Santana stated that Davis was a visionary who could hear the intangible before anyone else could see it. He noted that Davis believed in Santana from the beginning and believed in the band again years later. Santana called that kind of faith a beautiful blessing and said he would always be grateful.
Santana added that Davis understood music is more than entertainment. He called it a healing force that brings people together beyond fear, beyond separation and beyond borders. He said Davis dedicated his life to championing artists and helping them share their gifts with the world.
He thanked Davis for his friendship, his trust and his belief in Santana.
Billy Joel said Davis convinced him to sign with Columbia Records many years ago. He noted that Davis recognised the talent of great musicians and understood the power of contemporary music.
Joel said he would always be grateful to Davis for his recognition of the critical importance of songwriting. He added that Davis undoubtedly enhanced the stature of the music industry during his tenure as president of Columbia Records.
