Martha Stewart shared a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend Clive Davis, the legendary music executive who died on Monday, June 22, at the age of 94. The 84-year-old mogul took to Instagram to honor Davis, describing him as one of the most influential and compassionate people in his life.Stewart’s post reflects the deep connection the couple has built over decades of friendship and shared experiences in New York’s cultural groups. “My beautiful friend, mentor and neighbor, the irrepressible, unstoppable, amazing, talented, intuitive, Mister Clive Davis passed away today,” Stewart wrote. “I miss him very, very much. Not only did he give us some of the best performers and their music for over half a century, he was the kindest, most thoughtful and caring person.“
Martha Stewart and Clive Davis’ decades-long friendship
The relationship between Stewart and Davis went beyond a casual acquaintance. The couple is often seen together at major cultural events throughout New York, attending each other’s galas, celebrations and intimate dinners. Most recently, they were photographed together in January 2026 at Davis’ annual pre-Grammy party, a testament to the endurance of their connection despite their busy professional lives.Aside from the glitzy social occasions, Stewart also credits Davis for her role in supporting causes close to her heart. “Over the years, I have attended many of his super duper Grammy parties, his birthday celebrations, his dinners honoring his artists and friends, but I also have to give him credit for the Martha Stewart Center for Living at Mount Sinai. We will miss you Clive!!!!!” she wrote, highlighting the ways their friendship turned into philanthropy and community engagement.
From glamorous industry events to personal celebrations, Martha Stewart and Clive Davis shared a close bond that spanned many years. image credit. (Martha Stewart’s Instagram)
Clive Davis’ career and impact on music history
PEOPLE reports that Davis has a more than 50-year legacy in the music world. He is a five-time Grammy winner, has served as a leader of several major music labels throughout his career and has had a profound impact on the direction of popular music with his vision and instincts.His work at the helm of various record companies resulted in the discovery and development of some of the most popular artists of many generations.At one point in his career, Davis signed iconic performers including Janis Joplin, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith, The Isley Brothers and Earth, Wind & Fire. In another chapter of his professional life, he helped launch the careers of Barry Manilow, Patti Smith, Whitney Houston, Alan Jackson and many others, while also orchestrating remarkable career revivals for established artists including Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin and Carlos Santana.Davis founded Arista Records in 1974 and served as its president until 2000, when he launched J Records, continuing his work discovering and nurturing musical talent into his later years.
The legendary executive helped launch and shape the careers of some of the biggest names in music history. image credit. (Instagram by Clive Davis)
The last days of Clive Davis and the statement of his family
According to Davis’ longtime representative Aliza Rabinoff, who spoke to the outlet, Davis “died peacefully from an age-related illness at the age of 94 at his home in Manhattan on Monday, June 22, surrounded by his family and loved ones.”The music executive was hospitalized in New York City on May 29 but was discharged on June 4. A spokesperson indicated at the time that he was “in good spirits and happily recuperating at home.”
Clive Davis’ family’s tribute to his legacy
Following the music legend’s passing, his family issued a comprehensive statement acknowledging his many professional achievements and his role as a devoted family man. The statement captures the duality of his life, his unprecedented influence on global popular culture and his commitment to those closest to him.“To the world, our father is an iconic music legend whose vision, instincts, and relentless pursuit of excellence formed the soundtrack of countless lives. He discovered, mentored, and championed the greatest artists in modern music history, leaving an indelible cultural mark that will last for generations,” the family wrote. “To his family, Clive was Dad and Grandpa, the constant presence at the center of our lives, the source of wisdom, strength, encouragement, and unconditional love. No matter how extraordinary his professional achievements were, he never lost sight of what was most important. the people he loves.”
Family members of Clive Davis
Davis is survived by his four children. sons Doug, Mitchell and Fred Davis and daughter Lauren, along with eight grandchildren named Austin, Charlie, Matthew, Hayley, Harper, Sloane, Billie and Cody. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, his cousin Jo Schuman and his longtime partner Greg Schriefer.Clive Davis’ legacy will live on through the countless artists he nurtured and the cultural moments he helped shape in an extraordinary career.
