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Jon Bon Jovi’s Former Band Mate Jack Ponti Dies at 66

Jack Ponti started his music career playing guitar in a band called the “Rest” in the 1970s, with a then-unknown Jon Bon Jovi as lead singer.

Jack Ponti—Jon Bon Jovi’s former bandmate, and a music producer who wrote for Alice Cooper, among others—has died at 66. Ponti died Oct. 7, according to an obituary posted by Thompson Memorial Home in his hometown of Red Bank, New Jersey. “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 read. Ponti kicked off his music career in the 1970s as a guitar player for The Rest, with a then-unknown Bon Jovi as lead singer. He then progressed to influence the music of more legendary acts such as Cooper, Nelson, and Skid Row. “Jack had a rare ability to make people feel seen and valued, whether in the music studio or at home,” reads his obituary. “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.” He is survived by his wife, Tatyana, his daughter, Neva, his granddaughter, Jordyn, and his sister, Nikki, according to the obituary.