Clive Davis, the legendary music executive who died Monday, left behind a catalog of hits he personally shaped during his influential career. His keen ear for commercial success defined an era of popular music, transforming how record labels identified and promoted breakout artists. Davis built his reputation by recognizing talent before it became mainstream, consistently delivering chart-topping singles that drove massive sales and radio play.

His tenure at Columbia Records established him as a power player in the industry. Later, he founded Arista Records and created J Records, where he continued his streak of hit-making. These labels became synonymous with crossover success, launching careers that generated billions in revenue and shaped popular culture for decades. Davis understood that great songs required both artistic merit and commercial viability.

The New York Times highlights eleven essential tracks that exemplify his golden touch. These songs represent more than individual hits—they demonstrate his ability to pair emerging artists with the right producers, arrangements, and marketing strategies. His approach turned unknowns into household names while building sustainable business models for his companies.

Davis's death marks the end of an era where record executives wielded enormous influence over popular music. His legacy lives on through the artists he developed and the business strategies that remain relevant in streaming's data-driven landscape.