The music world has been in mourning since news broke that Clive Davis had passed away at the age of 94 on Monday (June 22). One of the most influential music industry moguls of all time, Davis guided the careers of the likes of Whitney Houston, Alicia Keys and Barry Manilow, signed everyone from Janis Joplin to Kenny G, and helped icons like Santana and Aretha Franklin achieve big chart wins late in their careers.
A private funeral will be held for Davis at an undisclosed location in New York City, one week after his death from age-related illnesses. As befits his influence and “golden ears,” his funeral on Monday (June 29) will be attended by some of the biggest names in music. Sources confirmed to Billboard that Kenny G, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys, Barry Manilow, Bruce Springsteen and Dionne Warwick will be participating. This is a star roster worthy of showing off legends and rising stars at the annual legendary pre-Grammy Gala. It’s a diverse list of musical talent that shows Davis’ golden ear is genre-agnostic. More talent is expected to join the service.
“To the world, our father is an iconic musical legend whose vision, instincts and relentless pursuit of excellence shaped the soundtrack of countless lives,” the Davis family said in a statement. “He discovered, mentored and championed some of the greatest artists in the history of modern music, leaving an indelible mark on a culture that will last for generations. To his family, Clive was a father and grandfather, a steady presence at the center of our lives, a source of wisdom, strength, encouragement and unconditional love. No matter how extraordinary his professional accomplishments, he never lost sight of what mattered most: the people he loved.”
From serving as president of Columbia Records, leading his own Arista label, helping L.A. Reid and Babyface establish LaFace Records, forming a joint venture with Bad Boy Records, and founding J Records, Davis helped more than 60 songs reach the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
Receive weekly summaries directly to your inbox
sign up
Source link
