Jack Bruce, bassist of legendary rock band Cream, passes away surrounded by family.

HALL of Fame bassist Jack Bruce, known for his work in Eric Clapton’s band, has died of liver disease surrounded by family

12/01/1993 Members of former rock group Cream, together prior to their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Los Angeles. (L-R) Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker & Jack Bruce.

JACK Bruce, the composer, singer and multi-instrumentalist, has died of liver disease, aged 71.

Bassist Bruce was most famous for his work with guitarist Eric Clapton and drummer Ginger Baker in legendary 1960s group Cream.

“It is with great sadness that we, Jack’s family, announce the passing of our beloved Jack: husband, father, grandad, and all round legend,” his family said.

“The world of music will be a poorer place without him but he lives on in his music and forever in our hearts.”

Bruce’s death was announced on his official website, and confirmed by his publicist Claire Singers.

“He died today at his home in Suffolk surrounded by his family,” she said.

Reunited ... Jack Bruce (L) with Ginger Baker and singer Eric Clapton (R) of band Cream during reunion concert at Royal Albert Hall in London 2005 Picture: Supplied.

Cream sold 35 million albums in just over two years and were awarded the world’s first ever platinum disc for their LP Wheels of Fire.

Bruce wrote and sang most of the songs, including I Feel Free, White Room, Politician and perhaps the world’s most performed guitar riff, in Sunshine Of Your Love.

Cream split in November 1968 at the height of their popularity.

Bruce felt that he had strayed too far from his ideals and wanted to rediscover his musical and social roots.

Originally published as Jack Bruce, bassist of legendary rock band Cream, passes away surrounded by family.