ASBURY PARK, New Jersey — Jack Ponti, a songwriter and producer who worked with famous acts such as Jon Bon Jovi and Alice Cooper, has died at the age of 66.
An obituary for Ponti says he died on Monday. No cause of death has been reported.
“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 obituary says. “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.”
According to nj.com, Ponti’s career started in the 1970s with the group Rest, where he played guitar and Bon Jovi sang. The band did not find wide success.
The band split up and Bon Jovi later went on to massive success beginning in the 1980s, when Ponti helped Bon Jovi write one of the band’s biggest hits, “Shot Through the Heart.” He also helped write songs with Alice Cooper, Kane Roberts, Keel, Trixter, Bonfire, Babylon A.D., and other acts, nj.com reports.
He also was a producer for several artists, Ultimate Classic Rock reports.
“Jack had a rare ability to make people feel seen and valued, whether in the music studio or at home,” the obituary says. “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.”
Ponti is survived by his wife, Tatyana, daughter, Neva, granddaughter, Jordyn, and his sister, Nikki.
