The Last Record Released by Bell Records Before Clive Davis Renamed It to Arista
Bell Records, a subsidiary of CBS Records, was a significant player in the music industry during the late 1970s and early 1980s. One of its most notable patrons, Clive Davis, was instrumental in shaping the label's identity and overseeing its release of some of the iconic albums of the era. However, in 1986, Clive Davis decided to rename the label to Arista Records, bringing a new chapter to the music industry.
Background on Bell Records
Bell Records, founded in 1970, was known for its high-quality sound and a roster that included artists like Barry Manilow, Mandy, Tony Orlando and Dawn, and many others. The label was known for its meticulous production and sound quality, making it a favorite among music enthusiasts and critics alike. One of the last records released under the Bell imprint was a testament to the label's legacy and the influence of Clive Davis.
Barry Manilow – The Last Record under Bell Records
One of the last records to be released under the Bell Records imprint was Barry Manilow's Mandy (Bell 45620).
Barry Manilow
Barry Manilow, known for his melodic and soulful compositions, was a significant artist under Bell Records. His album Mandy, released on Bell Records in 1980, was a perfect blend of his signature pop sound and reggae influences. The album, which was reissued under the Arista label later, showcased Manilow's evolution as an artist and his capacity to experiment with different genres.
From Bell to Arista
After the successful run of albums under the Bell imprint, Clive Davis, with his vision for the future of the music industry, decided to rename the label to Arista Records. This change was not just a rebranding, but a strategic move that would see Bell Records release more successful and chart-topping hits under the Arista banner.
The last releases using the Bell imprint often used the new designation US 11, marking them as the final productions before the transition. These records, including Mandy, symbolized the end of an era but also paved the way for a new chapter in the music industry under Arista.
The Significance of the Transition from Bell to Arista
The transition from Bell to Arista was not just a name change but a shift in the label’s identity and focus. Clive Davis, with his unparalleled expertise in the music industry, saw this as an opportunity to capitalize on the strengths of the Bell Records catalog while also introducing new artists and a fresh sound.
One of the key elements of this transition was the reissue of successful Bell albums on the Arista label. The album Mandy, for instance, was reissued and became one of the most successful albums under the new label. This reissue demonstrated the quality and enduring appeal of the Bell Records catalog and the strategic vision behind the rebranding.
Conclusion
The last record released by Bell Records before Clive Davis renamed it to Arista, Mandy by Barry Manilow, is a testament to the label's legacy and the talent that it nurtured. The rebranding from Bell to Arista not only marked the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter in the music industry, paving the way for future success under a new label identity.