Martha Stewart has shared a heartfelt tribute to her longtime friend Clive Davis, the legendary music executive who passed away on Monday, June 22, at the age of 94. The 84-year-old mogul took to Instagram to honour Davis, describing him as one of the most influential and compassionate figures in her life.Stewart’s post reflected the deep connection the pair had built over decades of friendship and shared experiences in New York’s cultural circles. “My lovely friend, mentor and neighbour, the indomitable, indefatigable, amazing, talented, intuitive, Mister Clive Davis passed away today,” Stewart wrote. “I will miss him so very, very much. Not only did he provide us with some of the best performers and their music for more than half a century, he was the kindest, most thoughtful and caring human being.“
Martha Stewart and Clive Davis’s decades-long friendship
The relationship between Stewart and Davis extended far beyond a casual acquaintance. The pair were regularly 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.Beyond the glittering social occasions, Stewart also honoured Davis for his role in supporting charitable causes close to her heart. “Over the years, I attended many of his super duper Grammy parties, his birthday celebrations, his dinners honouring his artists and friends, but I also got to honour him for the Martha Stewart center for Living at Mount Sinai. We will miss you Clive!!!!!” she wrote, highlighting the ways their friendship extended into philanthropy and community engagement.
From glamorous industry events to personal celebrations, Martha Stewart and Clive Davis shared a close bond that lasted for years.image credit: (Martha Stewart instagram)
Clive Davis’s career and impact on music history
PEOPLE reports Davis had more than 50 years legacy in the music world. He was a five-time Grammy winner, served as a leader at several major music labels throughout his career and had a significant 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 celebrated artists of multiple 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 numerous 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: (Clive Davis Instagram)
Clive Davis’s final days and his family’s statement
According to Davis’ longtime representative Aliza Rabinoff, who spoke to the outlet, Davis “passed away peacefully from 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 had been hospitalised in New York City on May 29 but was discharged on June 4. A spokesperson indicated at that time that he was “in good spirits and happy to be recuperating at home.”
Clive Davis’ family’s tribute to his legacy
Following the passing of the musical legend, his family issued a comprehensive statement that acknowledged both his monumental professional achievements and his role as a devoted family man. The statement captured 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 was the iconic music legend whose vision, instincts, and relentless pursuit of excellence shaped the soundtrack of countless lives. He discovered, mentored, and championed the greatest artists in modern music history, leaving an indelible mark on culture that will endure for generations,” the family wrote. “To his family, Clive was Dad and Granddaddy, the steady presence at the center of our lives, the 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.”
Clive Davis’s family members
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 also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, his cousin Jo Schuman and his longtime partner Greg Schriefer.The legacy of Clive Davis will endure through the innumerable artists he nurtured and the cultural moments he helped shape during an extraordinary career.