Clive Davis Recalls Aretha Franklin's Humble Request for Hits at 40

Published: June 13, 2025

Clive Davis, the legendary music producer, recently shared an intimate moment with Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, during his induction into the Apollo Walk of Fame at the historic theater's 2025 spring benefit.

Clive Davis in June 2025; Aretha Franklin in April 2017

Davis, 93, recalled the moment when Franklin, who was nearing 40 and had passed her commercial peak, asked if she could have hits again. This sparked a collaboration that would produce some of Franklin's most iconic songs, including "Freeway of Love," "I Knew You Were Waiting For Me," "Sisters Are Doin' It For Themselves," and "A Rose is Still a Rose."

Davis praised Franklin, saying, "She stood more for history than any one person I've ever been with. She said, 'Can I cook dinner with you?' I was thrilled. We spent the night chatting, collaborating, and bonding."

The Apollo Spring Benefit 2025, hosted by Kym Whitley, brought together many music icons, including Method Man, Larry Jackson, Babyface, Busta Rhymes, and Deborah Cox. Davis received the Legacy Award, while Teyana Taylor was the recipient of the Inaugural Innovator Award.

Davis has had a long and illustrious career, working with some of the biggest names in music, including Whitney Houston, Janis Joplin, Bruce Springsteen, Pink Floyd, and Barry Manilow. He has won five Grammy Awards and has held positions at several major music labels, including Columbia Records, RCA Music Group, and BMG.

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Davis mourned Franklin's passing in 2018, saying, "I'm absolutely devastated by Aretha's passing. She was truly one of a kind. She was more than the Queen of Soul. She was a national treasure to be cherished by every generation throughout the world."

Davis has continued to celebrate Franklin's legacy, hosting the Paramount+ miniseries Clive Davis: Most Iconic Performances in 2022.

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