There are unconfirmed reports that bassist/vocalist Jack Bruce is dead. Frankly, that matters little, as I’ve enjoyed his presence for decades and it won’t diminish now. I carry a copy of his solo LPs “Songs For a Tailor” and “Harmony Row” with me at all times. As a teenager, those Cream records became rooted into my DNA. One of the great moments of my life was when I was asked to play drums with lyricist/singer Peter Brown (for a whole concert of songs he co-write with Bruce for Cream and after). Although classified as a ‘rock’ musician, much of his work occurred in the jazz world with Tony Williams, John McLaughlin, Carla Bley (when Bley also had Mick Taylor of the Stones in her band), various members of Soft Machine. Oh, and the voice, let’s not forget he WAS THE BEST SINGING BASSIST, at least until Sting came along! Oh, and he also plays the piano (check out this video).
– Pat Thomas is the author of Listen, Whitey! The Sights and Sounds of Black Power 1965-1975.
