**Patti LaBelle Reveals Clive Davis’s Controversial Influence on Phyllis Hyman: A Complex Legacy**
The music industry is often seen as a place of glamour and success, but it can also be a realm of intense pressure and control. This dichotomy is starkly illustrated in the complex relationship between legendary music executive Clive Davis and the late singer Phyllis Hyman. Patti LaBelle, a close friend and fellow artist, has recently shed light on this contentious dynamic, hinting at the profound impact Davis had on Hyman’s career and personal life.
Phyllis Hyman, a towering figure at six feet tall, possessed a voice and presence that captivated audiences. Her initial success came under Buddha Records, where she enjoyed a significant degree of creative freedom. However, her transition to Arista Records, led by Clive Davis, marked the beginning of a tumultuous chapter. Davis, known for his keen commercial instincts, was immediately taken by Hyman’s potential and sought to mold her into a mainstream pop star. This was at odds with Hyman’s deep-rooted passion for soul and R&B music, leading to frequent clashes.
Davis’s approach extended beyond musical direction. He suggested that Hyman dye her hair blonde to appeal to a broader, predominantly white audience. Hyman, a staunch advocate for black pride and cultural authenticity, refused. This resistance was emblematic of the broader struggle between artistic integrity and commercial success, a recurring theme in the music industry.
The tension escalated when Hyman pursued acting, a move Davis viewed as a distraction from her music career. Despite her success in Broadway’s “Sophisticated Ladies,” earning her a Theatre World Award in 1981, Davis’s lack of support and promotion for her musical endeavors began to take a toll. Hyman’s once flourishing career started to falter under the weight of this strained relationship.
Patti LaBelle’s revelations underscore the personal impact of this professional discord. Hyman’s refusal to conform to Davis’s vision led to her being sidelined, with the focus shifting to other artists like Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston. This neglect contributed to Hyman’s growing depression, exacerbated by the challenges in her personal life, including a troubled marriage and difficult decisions regarding motherhood.
LaBelle described Davis as a terrorizing figure in Hyman’s life, whose attempts to control and manipulate ultimately failed to break her spirit. Despite Davis’s efforts, Hyman’s legacy endures, remembered for her defiance and commitment to her artistic identity. LaBelle’s insights highlight the darker side of the music industry, where the pursuit of commercial success can overshadow and undermine the very essence of the artist’s voice and vision.
In retrospect, the story of Phyllis Hyman and Clive Davis serves as a cautionary tale. It brings to light the often unseen struggles behind the music and the importance of respecting and nurturing an artist’s true self. Hyman’s battle for artistic autonomy and her refusal to compromise her identity remain powerful reminders of the need for integrity and authenticity in an industry that frequently prioritizes profit over passion.
