Music industry mourns death of Clive Davis

AP:

Music artistes mourned the death of Clive Davis, one of the industry's most powerful figures who launched or resurrected the careers of artistes ranging from Whitney Houston to Carlos Santana.

Davis, 94, died Monday in his Manhattan apartment. A statement from the family says Davis “discovered, mentored, and championed the greatest artistes in modern music history, leaving an indelible mark on culture that will endure for generations”.

REACTIONS

Barry Manilow

“My heart is heavy with the loss of my friend Clive Davis. For 50 years we worked together, created together, argued together, and celebrated together. Yes, some would say it was business. But to Clive, it never was. It was family. And I was honoured to be a part of his.” — on X.

Alicia Keys

“To Clive Davis, the visionary who transformed dreams into reality, leaving an indelible mark on music and lives worldwide.” — on Instagram.

Carlos Santana

“Clive Davis was a visionary. He could hear the intangible before anyone else could see it. He believed in Santana from the beginning, and years later he believed in us again. That kind of faith is a beautiful blessing, and I will always be grateful. Clive understood that music is more than entertainment. Music is a healing force. It brings people together beyond fear, beyond separation, beyond borders. He dedicated his life to championing artistes and helping them share their gifts with the world.” — in a statement.

Patti Smith

“This is thanking Clive Davis for transforming music, and on a very personal note, for believing in me, shepherding my efforts and a half century of your love and support.” — on Instagram.

Rod Stewart

“I owe Clive so much. The force behind J Records, he was the only one who believed a rock singer could sing the standards with conviction. Other labels rejected the idea, and so The Great American Songbook was born, selling close to 40 million copies.” — on Instagram.

Bruce Springsteen

“At 22 years old, he changed my life when he signed me to Columbia Records. He treated me with the same respect and kindness as a 22-year-old nobody as he did after all my success. A great man.” — on Instagram.

Dionne Warwick

"I can think of no other record man that seemed to have that magical ability to know a hit when he heard a song. The entire music industry I'm sure will mourn his passing. He was one of a kind." — in a statement.

Michael Bublé

“Heartbroken to hear of the passing of Clive Davis. Clive wasn’t just a music legend, he was a champion of artistes and someone who believed in people and their dreams. Forever grateful for his guidance, his generosity, and the opportunities he gave so many of us.” — on Instagram