Martha Stewart has paid a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend Clive Davis, the legendary music director who died on Monday, June 22, at the age of 94. The 84-year-old took to Instagram to pay tribute to Davis, describing him as one of the most influential and kind people in his life.Stewart’s post reflects the deep connection the two have developed over years of friendship and shared experiences in New York culture. “My dear friend, mentor and neighbor, indefatigable, tireless, amazing, talented, brilliant, Mr. Clive Davis passed away today,” Stewart wrote. “I will miss him very, very much. Not only did he give us some of the best artists and their music for over half a century, he was a very kind, thoughtful and caring person.“
Martha Stewart’s friendship with Clive Davis spanned decades
The relationship between Stewart and Davis grew beyond a casual acquaintance. The couple was regularly seen together at major cultural events in New York, attending galleries, festivals and dinners. Most recently, they were photographed together in January 2026 at Davis’ annual Grammy party, a testament to the endurance of their connection despite their busy schedules.Beyond the fun gatherings, Stewart also honored Davis for her role in supporting charities close to her heart. “Over the years, I attended many of his Grammy parties, his birthday parties, his dinners honoring his artists and friends, but I also had to honor him for the Martha Stewart Center for Living at Mount Sinai. We will miss you Clive!!!!!” she wrote, highlighting the ways in which their relationship expanded into philanthropy and community involvement.
From high-profile corporate events to private celebrations, Martha Stewart and Clive Davis shared a close relationship that spanned many years. Photo credit: (Martha Stewart instagram)
Clive Davis’ career and impact on music history
PEOPLE says Davis had more than 50 years of legacy in the music world. A five-time Grammy winner, he has been a frontman for several major music labels throughout his career and has had a profound impact on popular music with his vision and ideas.His career managing various recording companies led to the discovery and development of some of the most famous artists of several generations.At some point in his career, Davis signed famous artists such as 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, and organized revivals of famous artists including Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin and Carlos Santana.Davis founded Arista Records in 1974 and served as its president until 2000, when he founded J Records, continuing his work to discover and promote music in his later years.
The legend helped launch and shape the careers of some of the biggest names in music history. Photo credit: (Clive Davis Instagram)
The last days of Clive Davis are about his family
According to Davis’ longtime representative Aliza Rabinoff, who spoke to the outlet, Davis “passed away peacefully from an age-related illness at the age of 94 at her home in Manhattan on Monday, June 22, surrounded by her family and loved ones.”The singer was hospitalized in New York City on May 29 but was released on June 4. A spokesperson said at the time that he was “happy and happy to be recovering at home.”
Clive Davis’ family’s tribute to his legacy
Following the music legend’s passing, his family released a statement acknowledging his accomplishments and his role as a devoted family member. The speech touched on the duality of his life, his unprecedented influence on the world’s popular culture and his dedication to those around him.“To the world, our father was a legendary legend of music whose vision, instinct, and constant pursuit of success created the music of countless lives. He discovered, mentored, and inspired the best artists in the modern history of music, leaving an indelible mark on culture that will endure for generations,” the family wrote. “To his family, Clive was a Father and Grandfather, a constant presence in our lives, a source of wisdom, strength, encouragement, and unconditional love. Despite his talents, he never lost sight of what was most important: the people he loved. “
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 grandchildren, cousin Jo Schuman and former friend Greg Schriefer.Clive Davis’ legacy will endure through the countless artists he nurtured and the cultural moments he helped shape in an extraordinary career.