In a heartfelt message to BET, music mogul Jermaine Dupri is calling for a grand tribute to the legendary music executive Clive Davis at the upcoming 2026 BET Awards. His latest message comes on the heels of Davis’s recent passing, with Dupri emphasizing the profound impact Davis had in elevating Black music to the forefront of the industry.
The music world is still shocked by the loss of Clive Davis, who passed away on June 22, 2026, at the age of 94. As we previously shared his publicist revealed that Davis died peacefully from age-related illness at his home in Manhattan, surrounded by family and loved ones.
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Davis, a five-time Grammy Award winner, was instrumental in championing artists across a multitude of genres, including R&B, jazz, rock, country, and hip-hop. His influence extended to some of pop music’s biggest stars, showcasing his unmatched ability to identify and nurture talent.
In a statement released by his family, they shared, “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 also highlighted the personal side of Davis, stating, “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.”
Despite his monumental success, Davis often expressed humility about his musical talent, once reflecting that he never expected to possess a “musical ear.” Yet, he is celebrated as one of the greatest hit-makers in the industry. Throughout his illustrious career, he signed some of the most iconic names in music, including Simon and Garfunkel, Barry Manilow, Barbra Streisand, Patti Smith, Billy Joel, and Earth, Wind & Fire. His impressive roster later expanded to include legendary artists like Notorious B.I.G., Alicia Keys, Luther Vandross, and Rod Stewart, among many others.
As the music community prepares to honor Davis’s legacy, Dupri’s call to action for a special tribute at the BET Awards resonates deeply, reminding everyone of Davis’s vital role in shaping the music landscape and celebrating the artists who have enriched our lives.