Veteran Blues Advocate Mark Pucci Dies at 79
The music world has lost a true heavyweight, as veteran publicist and passionate blues advocate Mark Pucci passed away at the age of 79.
Pucci carved out a remarkable career spanning five decades, guiding the public relations for some of the greatest names in music history while remaining a steadfast champion of the blues. His journey took him from the explosive world of Southern rock to the deep, soulful roots of American music.
Early in his career, Pucci was at the epicenter of the Southern rock explosion of the mid-1970s. He began his tenure at Capricorn Records, where he rose through the ranks, eventually serving as the VP of publicity and general manager. During this time, his influence extended beyond rock stars; he also played a pivotal role in promoting Jimmy Carter’s 1976 presidential campaign, orchestrating publicity and benefit concerts designed to elevate the national profile.
As he established his own empire, Pucci founded Mark Pucci Media, a firm built on his lifelong passion for blues music. This media company became a powerful platform for representing music icons, including Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, and Carl Perkins. His roster of clients was staggering, featuring legendary figures such as John Mayall, Taj Mahal, Gordon Lightfoot, Derek Trucks, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Charlie Musselwhite, and Delbert McClinton, cementing his status as a master connector in the music industry.
Beyond managing famous names, Pucci dedicated himself to preserving the legacy of the blues. His commitment to this genre was recognized in 2008 when he received the prestigious Keeping Blues Alive Award from the Blues Foundation in Memphis, Tennessee.
Mark Pucci leaves behind a rich family, including his wife Patricia Powers Pucci, parents Anna and James Pucci, siblings Joseph and James Pucci, sisters Dolores Kenna and Carol Dinkowitz, brother-in-law Pete Dinkowitz, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is survived by his extended family, including sister-in-law Gertrude Pucci, nieces Diana Nunno (John), niece Tina Hulsman (Chris), and nephew Peter Dinkowitze (Wendy).
Memorial services will be held on October 28 from 10 a.m. to noon and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at South Care Cremation & Funeral Society in Alpharetta, Georgia. In honor of Pucci’s memory, donations can be made to the Lifeline Animal Project at www.lifelineanimal.org.
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