Jack Ponti, a former bandmate of Jon Bon Jovi with whom he spent his early career, has died aged 66.
His obituary describes him as a “musical genius” who also shaped the sounds of rock legends Alice Cooper, Nelson, and Skid Row.
According to his obituary, the music legend – whose real name was Giacomo Pontoriero – died on October 7. No cause of death was mentioned.
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He is survived by his wife, Tatyana, his daughter, Neva, his granddaughter, Jordyn, and his sister Nikki.
Ponti began his music career in the ’70s, playing guitar for the New Jersey–based band The Rest, for which Bon Jovi lent his vocals.
Though they had the endorsement of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band and New Jersey rock icon Southside Johnny, The Rest was unable to legitimise themselves with a recording contract.
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The band went their separate ways, with Bon Jovi of course staring his own eponymous band.
Though that didn’t mean their collaboration ended, with Ponti deciding to take on a more behind-the-scenes position in the music industry, writing songs for Bon Jovi along with Alice Cooper, Nelson, Joe Lynn Turner, being a music producer for Babylon A.D. Baton Rouge and Doro, and working with other metal bands throughout the ’80s and ’90s.
In 1991 he pivoted from the music industry to focus on his passion for martial arts, though he returned in 1996 to work as a talent manager for the likes of India.Arie, Boyz II Men and Scarface.
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In 2004, he decided to take the top seat by founding his own label Bardic records, later becoming CEO of label Merovingian Music.
Despite his successes in the music industry, his “greatest pride” was his family, the obituary described.
“Jack’s family was his true legacy, and his love for them was palpable in every conversation, every meal he cooked, and every smile he shared,” it read.
“Jack had a rare ability to make people feel seen and valued, whether in the music studio or at home. His generosity extended beyond his family, as he was always ready to offer advice, lend a hand, or simply bring laughter to those around him. His warmth and wisdom will continue to resonate through the countless lives he touched, long after the music fades.”
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