Clive Davis, the legendary music mogul who helped launch the careers of icons like Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Kelly Clarkson, and countless others, is dead, TMZ has learned.
Davis died Monday at his home in New York City, as the New York Times first reported. The cause of death is unclear.
Health Concerns Weeks Before Death
There were concerns about his health just weeks ago when he was hospitalized in New York with an upper respiratory infection. He was later discharged on June 4 and returned home, with a representative telling TMZ he was in good spirits and recovering.
Six-Decade Career as Music Industry Kingmaker
Over a career spanning more than six decades, Clive shaped the sound of popular music from the executive suite, earning a reputation as a kingmaker whose ear for talent changed the industry forever.
On top of discovering Whitney Houston, he founded Bad Boy Records with Sean Combs. He signed, developed, or championed many of the biggest names in music, including Alicia Keys, Janis Joplin, Barry Manilow, Bruce Springsteen, and countless others.
Rock Hall Inductee and Grammy Legend
Davis was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000 and became almost as famous for his star-studded annual pre-Grammy gala as he was for discovering talent. The 200-seat theater at the Grammy Museum is named after him.
Davis also battled Bell’s palsy in 2021 but remained active in the music world well into his 90s.
Unstoppable Impact on Music Business
His impact on the business is difficult to overstate—generations of artists owe part of their success to his guidance and ability to spot a star before the rest of the world caught on.
Clive Davis was 94.
RIP.