Legendary music mogul Clive Davis made a memorable appearance on the popular talk show “Letterman” recently, where he discussed his incredible career in the music industry. Davis, known for his role in shaping the careers of iconic artists such as Janis Joplin, Bruce Springsteen, and the Grateful Dead, sat down with host David Letterman to share some fascinating stories.
As the founder of Arista Records and former president of Columbia Records, Davis has had a significant impact on the music business for over five decades. His keen eye for talent and ability to discover and nurture artists has made him a powerhouse in the industry. Davis revisited his early days in the business, from his humble beginnings as a lawyer to his sudden rise to the presidency of Columbia Records.
One of the most memorable moments of the interview was Davis recounting his experience at the Monterey Pop Festival, a pivotal event in music history. He vividly described seeing Janis Joplin and her band, Big Brother and the Holding Company, perform on stage. Joplin’s electrifying presence left a lasting impression on Davis, leading him to sign her as his first artist. Their friendship blossomed, and Davis shared a humorous anecdote about inviting Joplin to his apartment to watch the Macy’s Day Parade.
Davis also reminisced about his encounters with other influential figures in the music world, such as Lou Reed and Andy Warhol. He shared stories of his time spent with Reed, highlighting his multifaceted personality and the impact Reed had on him personally and professionally. Davis and Reed’s friendship grew, leading to unforgettable adventures together, like attending a cabana party on Atlantic Beach.
The interview wouldn’t have been complete without discussing Davis’s role in shaping Bruce Springsteen‘s career. Davis recalled how he signed Springsteen after recognizing his talent and noting that he was not just another Bob Dylan. Springsteen’s early performances were relatively stationary, but Davis encouraged him to embrace the stage and move around. This advice proved invaluable, as Springsteen eventually became one of the greatest live performers in rock music.
No discussion of Davis’s career would be complete without mentioning the Grateful Dead. During his tenure at Columbia Records, the band approached Davis with concerns about their record label, prompting him to offer advice. Davis predicted the challenges they would face as independent artists and encouraged them to consider joining his Arista Records. Later on, Davis fondly remembered the Grateful Dead‘s decision to join his fledgling company, showcasing their trust in his expertise.
The interview provided a captivating glimpse into the life of Clive Davis and his tremendous impact on the music industry. From signing legendary artists to experiencing pivotal moments in music history, Davis’s contributions are truly unparalleled. With his bestselling memoir, “The Soundtrack of My Life,” captivating readers, Davis continues to be a force to be reckoned with and a key figure in the entertainment world.
