Jack Bruce, whose muscular yet melodic bass lines helped power the bluesy British rock trio Cream, died Saturday at his home in Suffolk, England. He was 71.
His death was confirmed by his publicist, Claire Singers, who told The Associated Press the cause was liver disease. He’d had a liver transplant in 2003.
Often described as the first rock supergroup (because its members were already experienced players when they formed the band), Cream featured Bruce, who also sang, along with singer-guitarist Eric Clapton and drummer Ginger Baker.
The musicians were celebrated for the virtuosity they brought to blues tunes such as “Spoonful” and “Rollin’ and Tumblin'” and for catchy originals such as “White Room” and “Sunshine of Your Love,” both of which Bruce co-wrote and are among the hits that have become staples on classic-rock radio.
Yet their success didn’t prevent the three from fighting.