Legendary label executive Clive Davis, who died on Monday (June 22) at the age of 94, had an extraordinary career. After joining CBS Records subsidiary Columbia Records as an assistant counsel in 1960, he rose to the top ranks of the music business. Known for his ability to discover and shepherd music talent, Davis signed and/or mentored stars including Janis Joplin, Aerosmith, Barry Manilow, Whitney Houston, Bruce Springsteen, Usher, Carlos Santana, Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warwick.
During his 66-year run in the business, he launched two hugely successful labels: Arista Records — which launched stars including Houston and Manilow — and J Records, which was responsible for rocketing Alicia Keys to fame, among other artists. In recognition of his massive contributions to the music industry, Davis was bestowed with a number of honors during his career, including four competitive Grammys and the prestigious Trustees Award by the Recording Academy.
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Clive Davis, Legendary Music Executive, Dies at 94
“To the world, our father was the iconic music legend whose vision, instincts, and relentless pursuit of excellence shaped the soundtrack of countless lives,” said the Davis family in a statement summing up his legacy. “He discovered, mentored, and championed the greatest artists in modern music history, leaving an indelible mark on culture that will endure for generations.”
Following the news of Davis’ death, Billboard has put together a timeline of the legendary music mogul’s career, spanning from his graduation from Harvard Law School in 1960 to the 50th anniversary of his annual pre-Grammy gala earlier this year.
Check out the full timeline below.
