The legendary Clive Davis has passed away today at the age of 94.
My first job ever was at Columbia Records in New York City, and like so many young people dreaming of a career in music, I was eager to absorb everything around me like a sponge. Walking through the impressive lobby, with glossy black and white floors, and TV screens playing 24-7 music videos, had me enamored.
Whether I was delivering CDs to Clive’s enormous office at the top of the building, helping prepare new releases, or putting stickers on albums before they were shipped out to radio stations and industry executives across the country, I was learning from the inside of an institution that helped shape music history.
I was just a college kid, excited to be there, never fully realizing how extraordinary it was to be working in the orbit of a man whose vision would help launch and define the careers of so many iconic artists.
What always stayed with me was that despite his larger than life reputation, Clive himself was anything but intimidating. If you happened to catch a glimpse of him in the elevator, he was unassuming, gracious, and kind. He always acknowledged the people around him. He always said hello.
Clive Davis wasn’t just responsible for discovering and championing some of the greatest artists of all time. He helped create the soundtrack of generations.
I feel incredibly fortunate that my very first chapter in this business began under the roof he built.
They say one of the best ways to honor someone’s life in their memory, is to celebrate it. Today felt like the best time to do so. Thank you, Clive, for the music, the opportunities, and the legacy you leave behind. May you rest in peace.
