Clive Davis is back in Hollywood! His 43rd annual pre-Grammy party is once again rocking LA! Yesterday he fielded questions with the media, and multiple Grammy nominee Brandi Carlile was at his side at the Beverly Hilton. Last year’s party was in New York, which means that Davis’s team has been deluged with requests for tickets now that the gang is back in the right place. As usual, this is the hottest ticket of Grammy weekend.
After Carlile left, Clive and team checked out one of the secret performers’ rehearsals in the Ballroom. (We’re not allowed to divulge who it is, but this one is of the moment and hot hot hot.)
Just before rehearsal, I sat down for a quick chat with the music business’s legendary champion.
I asked Clive how it felt for him this year?
He answered, “Each year the challenge is special and unique. How do you, in front of the most glittering audience in the world, sharing one common language, a love of music. How do you keep them coming back every year? How do you top the previous years show which is always wonderfully referred to as the best ever. So
it has its challenges, but it’s invigorating. Now the guest list, on my God, it is the most sparkling guest list one could ever hope to see. I’m pinching myself that all all those people , not just from music or film, but from politics or sports and the arts, are all coming together in one ballroom to see what’s up this year. It’s a great feeling.”
I wondered how he maintained his 100% excitement and enthusiasm after all these years?
He replied, “It never gets jaded. I love music, I love the challenge and I’m committed to great artistry. So it’s a natural love and passion for me. The word ‘jaded’ is not in my vocabulary. I’m not performing the same repertoire into the 43rd year, it’s different.”
Clive and his son Doug Davis, along with Ken Ehrlich, recently executive produced a TV tribute to his beloved Aretha Franklin. “A Grammy Celebration for the Queen of Soul,” will
Air on CBS March 10th, hosted by Tyler Perry. Clive’s party will also have a tribute to her.
Clive told me that, “From Jennifer Hudson, to Celine Dion, Alicia Keys, Rob Thomas, Fantasia, Patti LaBelle, Janelle Monae, SZA, HER, Alessia Cara, Brandi Carlile, Andra Day, Shirley Caesar, Bebe Winans, Common with Yolanda Adams, all gave the performances of their lives. John Legend performing “Bridge Over Trouble Water,” so special. A once in a lifetime concert.”
Well Clive, all of Hollywood is looking forward, most especially to you holding court on the podium of the ballroom Saturday night.
