The Legacy of Clive Davis in the Music World
Introduction
Clive Davis, a legendary music executive who passed away at the age of 94, made enduring contributions to the music industry by forming deep relationships with artists. His rapport with them shaped careers on both sides. Over six decades, Davis guided varied talents, from the Grateful Dead to Alicia Keys, leaving a lasting impact.
Janis Joplin
Clive Davis was instrumental in Janis Joplin’s career development. After becoming president of Columbia Records at 35, Davis attended the Monterey Pop Festival in search of new talent. There, he saw Big Brother & The Holding Company with Joplin, facing a crucial choice to sign her based on intuition. He chose to sign Joplin, influencing both their paths profoundly.
He ensured her single “Piece of My Heart” was released in an abbreviated format for radio play. Additionally, he encouraged Joplin to pursue a solo career. Following her death in 1970, Davis discovered the recording of “Me and Bobby McGee” during sessions for her album “Pearl,” which was released posthumously.
Carlos Santana
Davis signed Carlos Santana to Columbia Records in 1968, paving the way for hits like “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va.” Santana gained prominence after a memorable Woodstock performance in 1969. Rediscovering Santana’s potential decades later, Davis proposed an album that mixed original works with contemporary collaborations.
The resulting album, “Supernatural” in 1999, included tracks such as “Do You Like the Way” with Lauryn Hill and hits like “Maria Maria” with Wyclef Jean and “Smooth” with Rob Thomas. The album won eight Grammys, matching the record of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” Santana credited Davis for believing in his talent throughout his career.
Bruce Springsteen
In 1972, at the age of 22, Bruce Springsteen was signed by Clive Davis to Columbia Records. Davis saw potential beyond comparisons to Bob Dylan, believing Springsteen to be a “poet warrior” and future legendary performer.
Springsteen’s debut album initially lacked singles, so Davis prompted him to create tracks that later became significant, including “Blinded by the Light.” Davis advised Springsteen to be more dynamic in his live performances. Springsteen publicly acknowledged Davis’ transformative impact on his career.
Whitney Houston
No artist was more closely linked to Davis than Whitney Houston. He discovered her at Sweetwater’s, a New York club, where she performed with her mother, Cissy Houston. Davis was captivated by her rendition of “The Greatest Love of All,” a song he commissioned earlier.
In 1983, Davis signed Houston to Arista, meticulously selecting songs and producers for her debut album over two years. Houston became Arista’s top-selling artist and a global icon. They maintained a close professional bond, evidenced by contract clauses allowing her flexibility based on Davis’ presence at Arista. Davis played a pivotal role in arranging the soundtrack for “The Bodyguard,” including her iconic cover of “I Will Always Love You.”
The Grateful Dead
Clive Davis had long aimed to sign the Grateful Dead, especially Jerry Garcia, to Columbia Records. Though initially under contract with Warner Bros., Davis signed New Riders of the Purple Sage, a band featuring Garcia. By the late 1970s, Davis had founded Arista Records and successfully signed the Dead.
Bob Weir, the band’s guitarist, acknowledged Davis as a trusted figure. Davis encouraged a patient approach to recording, prioritizing readiness over commercial pressure. This approach led to their success with “Touch of Grey” in 1987.
Alicia Keys
At 15, Alicia Keys entered a contract with Columbia Records in 1996 but experienced creative clashes with the label. Davis, in transition from Arista, facilitated her release from Columbia and signed her to J Records in 2000.
Recognizing her potential during an office session, Davis supported Keys’ artistic independence in her debut album “Songs in A Minor.” The album earned five Grammys in 2002. Despite genre challenges affecting airplay, Davis saw opportunity and collaborated with Oprah Winfrey to showcase her talent, propelling the single “Fallin’.”
Kenny G
During the early 1980s, the market for instrumental music was limited, but Davis saw potential in saxophonist Kenny G. In 1982, Davis signed him to Arista, leading to Kenny G’s status as the best-selling instrumental artist.
Kenny G frequently attributed his success to Davis’ guidance, which involved collaboration rather than interference. Davis facilitated partnerships with vocalists like Michael Bolton, enhancing Kenny G’s impact and reach.