# Arista Records

> American record label; imprint of Arista Records, Inc.

**Wikidata**: [Q664167](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q664167)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arista_Records)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/arista-records

## Summary
Arista Records is an American record label, originally founded in 1974 and later revived in 2018 as an imprint of Arista Records, Inc. It has been associated with major artists across genres including hip-hop, R&B, pop, and soul, and has been owned or operated by Sony Music.

## Key Facts
- **Founded**: 1974, revived as an imprint in 2018
- **Dissolved**: 2011
- **Headquarters**: New York City, United States
- **Parent Company**: Sony Music (as of 2018)
- **Key Artists**: Avril Lavigne, Usher, Whitney Houston, TLC, Santana, Dido, and many others
- **Genres**: Hip-hop, R&B, pop, soul, and contemporary music
- **Website**: [https://www.ari...](https://www.ari...)
- **Key People**: Clive Davis (music executive)

## FAQs
- **What genres does Arista Records specialize in?** Arista Records has been associated with hip-hop, R&B, pop, soul, and contemporary music, releasing works by artists like Usher, Whitney Houston, and TLC.
- **Who were some of the key artists signed to Arista Records?** Notable artists include Avril Lavigne, Usher, Whitney Houston, TLC, Santana, and Dido.
- **When was Arista Records founded and dissolved?** Arista Records was founded in 1974 and dissolved in 2011 before being revived as an imprint in 2018.
- **What is the relationship between Arista Records and Sony Music?** Arista Records was owned and operated by Sony Music as of 2018.
- **What are some notable albums released by Arista Records?** Notable albums include *Let Go* by Avril Lavigne, *Confessions* by Usher, and *No Angel* by Dido.

## Why It Matters
Arista Records played a significant role in the music industry, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s, by signing and promoting major artists across multiple genres. Its revival in 2018 as an imprint of Sony Music underscores its enduring influence and strategic importance in the music business. The label has been associated with iconic albums and artists, shaping the sound of popular music for decades.

## Notable For
- **Revived as an Imprint**: Arista Records was revived in 2018 as an imprint of Sony Music, continuing its legacy in the music industry.
- **Diverse Artist Roster**: The label has been home to major artists across genres, including hip-hop, R&B, pop, and soul.
- **Notable Albums**: Released iconic albums such as *Let Go* by Avril Lavigne and *Confessions* by Usher.
- **Strategic Partnerships**: Owned and operated by Sony Music, leveraging its global reach and resources.

## Body
### History
Arista Records was founded in 1974 and dissolved in 2011. It was revived in 2018 as an imprint of Arista Records, Inc., under the ownership of Sony Music. The label has a rich history of signing and promoting major artists across various genres.

### Key Artists
Arista Records has been associated with numerous influential artists, including:
- **Avril Lavigne**: Known for hits like *Complicated* and *Sk8er Boi*.
- **Usher**: Released albums such as *Confessions* and *8701*.
- **Whitney Houston**: Released iconic albums like *Whitney* and *The Bodyguard* soundtrack.
- **TLC**: Released albums like *CrazySexyCool* and *FanMail*.
- **Santana**: Released albums such as *Supernatural* and *Shaman*.
- **Dido**: Released albums like *No Angel* and *Life for Rent*.

### Genres and Influence
Arista Records has been a hub for hip-hop, R&B, pop, and soul music. Its artist roster includes major figures who have shaped contemporary music, contributing to the evolution of these genres.

### Ownership and Operations
Arista Records was owned and operated by Sony Music as of 2018. The label's strategic partnership with Sony Music has allowed it to leverage the company's global reach and resources, ensuring its continued relevance in the music industry.

### Notable Albums
Some of the most notable albums released by Arista Records include:
- *Let Go* by Avril Lavigne (2002)
- *Confessions* by Usher (2004)
- *No Angel* by Dido (1999)
- *CrazySexyCool* by TLC (1994)
- *Supernatural* by Santana (1999)

### Legacy and Revival
The revival of Arista Records in 2018 as an imprint of Sony Music highlights its enduring legacy and strategic importance in the music business. The label continues to be associated with major artists and iconic albums, ensuring its place in music history.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. Rate Your Music