Members of the hard rock/heavy metal community are remembering the legendary British musician Jack Bruce, best known as the bass player and vocalist of the heavy rock band Cream, who died yesterday (Saturday, October 25th) at his home at 71.

A family statement reads: “It is with great sadness that we, Jack’s family, announce the passing of our beloved Jack: husband, father, granddad, and all round legend. The world of music will be a poorer place without him, but he lives on in his music and forever in our hearts.”

 

 

Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi: “Very sad to hear of the passing of Jack Bruce, a major influence in music and an amazing bass player and singer. He was a hero to so many.”

Black Sabbath's Geezer Butler: “So sad to hear of Jack Bruce passing. My biggest influence and favourite bass player. Thank you, Jack. Rip."

Rush's Geddy Lee: "The sudden passing of Jack Bruce is terribly sad news. One of the greatest rock bassists to ever live and a true and profound inspiration to countless musicians. He was one of my first bass heroes and was a major influence on my playing and my music. My heartfelt condolences to his family and fans."

Blue Öyster Cult’s Eric Bloom: “Jack Bruce has a place in rock history that is bedrock. Being of a certain age, I lived through the release of the first 3 Cream albums which EVERYONE owned. Sure, Clapton was the guitar player, but in reality, Jack Bruce was the lead vocalist and considerable writer. '66, '67 (the year I graduated college) '68 , these albums were as influential as Are You Experienced or The Doors. Wheels of Fire was the first Platinum double album (vinyl folks). The guy was an awesome talent. RIP.”

Megadeth’s Dave Mustaine: “Truly in the sunshine of your life now. Rest In Peace.”

KISS’ Paul Stanley: “Rip Jack Bruce. One of the true greats. Bass playing & singing in Cream influenced countless others who followed. Sad,"

Anthrax’ Scott Ian: “Jack Bruce. Jeez. Hero. RIP.”

Queen’s Brian May: “Rip Jack Bruce. So sad to hear this great pioneering rock musician is gone. Inspiring to us all. I'll be listening to ‘Badge’ tonight..."

Slash: “Just heard the news of Jack Bruce passing; he was a prince of a man and an icon of his generation, my generation & generations to come. Rip.”

Joe Walsh: “Sad to hear of Jack Bruce's passing. He was a good friend and a remarkable musician."

Producer Neil Kernon: “So sad to learn of the passing of the great Jack Bruce. I was an ardent fan of his growing up, especially during the Cream days, and through the years his wonderful playing and songwriting has been a real inspiration to me. My thought and prayers are with his family and friends. RIP Jack - you will be terribly missed.”

Jack Bruce photo courtesy of here.

Cream - who also featured guitarist Eric Clapton and drummer Ginger Baker - released three influential and timeless albums: Fresh Cream (1966), Disraeli Gears (1967) and Wheels Of Fire (1968).