Clive Davis helped launch or shape the careers of these music stars, across genres and decades

Clive Davis helped launch or shape music careers across genres and decades, and his relationships with the artists he represented were central to how his label work translated into lasting industry influence. Davis, who died at 94, became president of Columbia Records at age 35 and drew talent from major live showcases, beginning with his attendance at California’s Monterey Pop festival. There he chose Big Brother & the Holding Company’s Janis Joplin as his first major decision as head of the label, persuading edits to “Piece of My Heart” and later pushing her to go solo. After her 1970 death, he helped surface her “Me and Bobby McGee” recording from the “Pearl” sessions. He also signed Santana in 1968 and later produced the Grammy-winning 1999 album “Supernatural.” He backed Bruce Springsteen’s early development at Columbia in 1972, including advice for live performance.