I first heard that Jack had died late at night on Saturday. I was talking with Rick Nestler after his party and asked why Peggy Atwood had not been there. When they had called to confirm that she was coming she told Rick that she would not be there due to upset over Jack's sudden death.

He had been diagnosed with lung cancer a couple of weeks ago. When he went in for his first chemotherapy, he did not respond well. Although he was admitted to the hospital, he did not survive the night.

Jack was significant in incubating several careers, including Suzanne Vega and Lyle Lovett, as well as running, in various guises, his salon.