Monte Lipman paid a unique tribute to music industry icon Clive Davis during a star-studded gala held at the Beverly Hilton on Saturday night. As attendees gathered for the invite-only event that precedes the Grammy Awards, Lipman, the head of Republic Records, humorously characterized the 93-year-old Davis as a “f— gangster” who would “slit your throat for a hit record.” This lighthearted comment showcased Lipman’s admiration while he accepted the Recording Academy’s Industry Icon award alongside his brother, Avery Lipman.
The ballroom was filled with a dazzling array of celebrities and industry veterans, including the likes of Joni Mitchell, Nancy Pelosi, Stevie Wonder, and Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown, who at 96 years old brought a wealth of experience to the gathering. Many guests had come to celebrate the Lipmans’ impressive achievements in the music industry, notably their recent successes with major artists such as Taylor Swift, Morgan Wallen, and Post Malone.
Attendees were treated to an entertaining mix of performances, featuring both esteemed veterans and rising stars. Three nominees for the Grammy’s best new artist were present: Sombr, who dazzled with his performance; Olivia Dean, whose vibrant rendition of “Man I Need” captivated the audience; and Alex Warren, who showcased his evolving artistry.
Musical highlights of the evening included a collaboration between Clipse and John Legend, performing their nominated track “The Birds Don’t Sing,” and a tribute to the late Roberta Flack by Jennifer Hudson, whose rendition brought the audience to a poignant silence.
Tributes were also paid to living legends Bernie Taupin and Art Garfunkel, with Darren Criss delivering a spirited rendition of “Bennie and the Jets” and Dan + Shay performing “Mrs. Robinson.” Garfunkel himself took to the stage, captivating the audience with heartfelt performances of his classics.
This gala, filled with nostalgic performances and a sense of camaraderie among the stars, exemplified the enduring legacy of Clive Davis in the music industry while also highlighting the new generation of talent that continues to shape the future of music. It was an evening that not only celebrated past achievements but also looked forward to the promising paths of emerging artists.