Metal Sludge — Another sad day in music as we report the passing of musician, producer, manager, and record label executive Jack Ponti.
According to an online New Jersey area Obituary Ponti passed away on October 7th.
Ponti had a long career in music that started out with him playing in a local New Jersey band with a guy named Jon Bon Jovi.
Over the last 4 plus decades the New Jersey native worked with a huge list of musicians, bands and artists that included Alice Cooper, Bon Jovi and Boyz II Men.
Industry titan Ahmet Ertegun gave Ponti his first production job.
Jack leaves behind his wife, Tatyana, his daughter, Neva, a granddaughter, Jodyn and his sister Nikki.
RIP Jack Ponti
Jack Ponti (Giacomo Pontoriero), an influential American musician, songwriter, producer, and manager, passed away on October 7, 2024. 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.
Born in Newark, NJ, Jack grew up with an ear for music and a heart full of compassion. His early passion for the guitar led him into a remarkable career, where his talent and vision helped shape the sounds of iconic rock bands like Bon Jovi, Alice Cooper, Nelson, and Skid Row. Jack’s greatest pride, however, was not found in the music industry but in the love he had for his family. 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.
He is remembered by his wife, Tatyana, his daughter, Neva, his cherished granddaughter, Jordyn, and his sister Nikki. He is predeceased by his parents, Anthony and Dorothy Pontoriero, and his many beloved dogs.
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.
Read Jack Ponti‘s full Obituary HERE.
I have to say, these posts are getting harder to write, and I will note here that Jack Ponti was a friend of mine, and a supporter of Metal Sludge.
Jack was a great guy, and intelligent is an understatement.
I looked back in my messenger and read through our last exchanges, Jack‘s words to me were heart-felt and inspiring.
Thank you for your friendship Jack Ponti, you will be missed by many, including me.
Read Jack Ponti‘s Classic 20 Questions on Metal Sludge from June 21st 2005 HERE and another in-depth interview from March 31st 2012 on Legendary Rock Interviews HERE.
Stay tuned to Metal Sludge for Breaking News, Updates and Features along with New Interviews and Classic 20 Questions.
