Jack Magraw

Oh dear, so sad I missed this announcement for so long. Jack gave me by break into the music business in 1967 when he was MD of Screen Gems-Columbia Music in Wells St. London. For 3 years we were close and I felt he was more like an older brother than my Boss. He always had a glint in his eye when he asked me to 'look after' his huge car whenever he went abroad and he knew I'd take it out to impress my coterie. We had some great times at the Snooker Hall in Soho almost every lunchtime and he taught me his formidible cue skills. We had a few amazing weeks in Cannes in January each year at MIDEM and have a few stories, but what happened in Cannes, stays in Cannes. Sadly, when Jack started employing 'certain people' in 1970, the rot set in and I left shortly after as I could not work with them or watch while they misled him. I understand the comment of another who decsribed him as 'bewildered'. I don't think the music biz appreciated his talents or treated him very well. I owe Jack much. Very much. I regret never having an opportunity to meet him again and thank him. So sad.

Dear Jack You were a great friend and a very lovely man. I loved my time at High Wycombe with you. I am sorry we never kept in touch. I will always remember your Russian impression. God Bless You Shaun Payne

I have been asked to post this on behalf of a dear friend Scott Mercer. The world lost a good man, father and friend with the passing of Jack Magraw. I first met Jack as a bewildered ex-pat living in London in the late 1990s. He became a valued confident, friend and source of good cheer every time we were together. My family and friends also benefited from his great service and sense of humor when visiting me in London. I was never bored with Jack. He would regale me with tales of his times in New York, Hollywood and with running with the “Rat Pack”, not to mention his very interesting political views! He never failed to make me smile, which was important for a lonely ex-pat. The world was a better place with Jack in it, but I am sure he is hanging once again with the “Rat Pack” after sweet taking his way past Saint Peter. Goodbye old friend. Scott

Jack Magraw was born in Durham and moved to Slough at a young age. After some time in the army he migrated to Canada to be an apprentice toolmaker on the Avro arrow project. A friend convinced him to move to New York where he started an amazing career in the music business which saw him be a senior promotion manager for reprise records working with frank sinatra, the rat pack , lulu and many other big names. Later on his life he worked as a chauffeur and managed 4 snooker clubs in the Windsor/Maidenhead area. He never stopped working until he was 84 and was loved by everyone. Xxxxxxx

I miss you so much dad I’m sure you’re playing snooker with frank and the boys. I love you so much xxxxxx

My amazing dad, my heart is truly broken but 'm keeping my promise. I'm so proud to say I'm your daughter. I love you xxxxx