Clive Davis, the legendary music industry executive known for spotting generation-defining talent, has died at age 94.

The death comes after he was hospitalized earlier this year for an upper respiratory issue.

As tributes pour in from around the world, New Jersey’s own Bruce Springsteen shared a personal message honoring the executive who first believed in him.

Springsteen, whom Davis signed to Columbia Records in the early 1970s, expressed his grief and gratitude for the man who launched his career.

“Over here on E Street, we mourn the death of the great record man and close friend Clive Davis,” Springsteen said. “At 22 years old, he changed my life when he signed me to Columbia Records. He treated me with the same respect and kindness as a 22-year-old nobody as he did after all my success. A great man. All our prayers and love.”

Throughout a career that spanned decades, Davis became one of the most influential figures in modern music history. Beyond his role in introducing Springsteen to the world, he is also credited with discovering pop icon Whitney Houston.

He was also instrumental in launching or revitalizing the careers of artists including Billy Joel, Carlos Santana and Alicia Keys.

Funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been announced.