Clive Davis, the visionary executive who shaped the landscape of modern popular music, has died at 94. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully at his Manhattan home on June 22, 2026.
Originally a Harvard-educated corporate attorney, Davis had no musical background when he was appointed president of Columbia Records in 1967. His career transformed after attending the Monterey Pop Festival that same year, where he signed Janis Joplin and discovered his uncanny ear for hit records.
Over a five-decade career, Davis founded Arista Records and J Records, becoming one of the industry's most influential star-makers. He famously discovered a teenage Whitney Houston and guided her to global superstardom. He was also instrumental in launching, developing, or rejuvenating the careers of icons across multiple genres, including Bruce Springsteen, Santana, Barry Manilow, Aretha Franklin, and Alicia Keys.
Known for his meticulous creative direction and his legendary annual pre-Grammy galas, Davis remained a vital force in music well into his 90s. He leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as the architect of the soundtrack for generations of listeners.