Jon Bon Jovi’s former bandmate Jack Ponti dies aged 66
Jon Bon Jovi’s former bandmate, Jack Ponti, has died (Pictures: Thompson Funeral Home / AP)
Record producer Jack Ponti has died at the age of 66.
The songwriter, who previously worked with legendary musician Jon Bon Jovi, died on October 7.
An online obituary confirmed the sad news, but his cause of death has not yet ben publicly shared.
‘While widely recognized for his musical genius, it was his boundless love for his family, generosity of spirit, and fierce loyalty that truly defined him,’ the message 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.
Jack died at the age of 66 (Picture: Thompson Funeral Home)
‘His warmth and wisdom will continue to resonate through the countless lives he touched, long after the music fades.’
A visitation for Ponti, born Giacomo Pontoriero, was held yesterday, before his burial today in New Jersey.
The Newark-native nurtured his passion for music for a young age and he stepped into the spotlight in the 1970s while performing with Bon Jovi in the band, The Rest.
However, they weren’t given a recording contract and ended up splitting, with the lead singer going on to form Bon Jovi, while Ponti worked as a songwriter and producer.
Jon went on to form Bon Jovi (Picture: Getty)
Speaking of their close bond in a chat with Legendary Rock Interviews in 2012, he commended his former bandmate as a true rockstar.
‘I’ve known Jon since he was in high school. My first impression is the same today as it was then,’ he said. ‘You either have it, or you don’t, and he has it times fifty. He also had incredible drive, ambition, focus, and resiliency.
‘Jon and me really laid the nucleus for both of our careers playing in that band together. It was a very important time. We had big dreams, good times, a learned a lot together.
‘Jon grew up worshiping people like Bruce Springsteen, Southside Johnny, Tom Petty, the real artists’ artists. It’s astonishing what happened. It changed all of our lives and I am eternally grateful.’
Ponti went on to write songs for Bon Jovi, as well as a host of other bands and performers – including Alice Cooper, Nelson and Keel.
He also briefly returned to the stage when he formed his own group, Surgin’, in 1985, and dropped the album, When Midnight Comes.
After briefly leaving the music industry, he returned as a talent manager and worked alongside iconic singer India.Arie over the years – before he was appointed CEO of Merovingian Music in 2006.
Ponti is remembered by his wife, Tatyana, daughter Neva, granddaughter Jordyn, and his sister, Nikki.
News
Jon Bon Jovi and Wife Dorothea Hurley Are ‘as Humble as It Gets’: All About Their Charity Work
Jon Bon Jovi and Wife Dorothea Hurley Are ‘as Humble as It Gets’: All About Their Charity Work Jon Bon Jovi has been earning a ton of praise after talking a woman off a bridge in Nashville, Tennessee, earlier this month — but…
Bon Jovi will join Stephen Colbert at NJPAC this fall
Bon Jovi will join Stephen Colbert at NJPAC this fall How New Jersey is this? Two Jersey guys will be sharing the stage at the Montclair Film Festival in downtown Newark later this month. According to a release, Jon Bon…
Moment Prince William Tells Chatty Catherine to Move Along As Princess SHINES at Jordanian Wedding
A Royal Surprise: The Prince and Princess of Wales at Crown Prince Hussein’s Wedding in Jordan In a delightful turn of events, the Prince and Princess of Wales made a surprise appearance at the wedding of Crown Prince Hussein in…
A Royal Gift: The Extravagant Diamond Bracelet Given to Princess Catherine
A Royal Gift: The Extravagant Diamond Bracelet Given to Princess Catherine One of the most luxurious gifts ever presented to Princess Catherine came from King Charles, a dazzling diamond bracelet that symbolizes elegance, royal connections, and familial affection. This exquisite…
Queen Mary’s Mysterious Russian Sapphire Cluster Brooch: A Tale of Royal Legacy
Queen Mary’s Mysterious Russian Sapphire Cluster Brooch: A Tale of Royal Legacy The story of Queen Mary’s Russian Sapphire Cluster Brooch is one that blends mystery, history, and elegance. This brooch, one of the most striking pieces in the British…
The History Behind The Strathmore Rose Tiara
The History Behind The Strathmore Rose Tiara The Strathmore Rose Tiara is a beautiful and storied piece of royal jewelry, steeped in history and symbolism. It has become a symbol of elegance and romance, not only for its intricate design…
End of content
No more pages to load