Arista

Arista Records was founded in 1974 by Clive Davis, a prominent music executive known for his keen ear for talent. Initially focusing on pop and rock music, the label quickly gained prominence in the late 1970s and 1980s, signing a diverse roster of artists. Notable acts included Whitney Houston, who became one of the best-selling female artists of all time, as well as Barry Manilow, Aretha Franklin, and the Grateful Dead. Arista was instrumental in the rise of contemporary R&B and pop, particularly during Houston's peak in the late 1980s and early 1990s. In the 1990s, Arista expanded its influence by embracing hip-hop and alternative rock, signing artists like OutKast and Lisa Stansfield. The label's legacy is marked by its ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while producing numerous chart-topping hits. In 2004, Arista was absorbed into the RCA Music Group, but its impact on the music industry remains significant, particularly in shaping pop and R&B genres.