"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."

Bruce reportedly died from liver disease, which he was originally diagnosed with in 2003. The rocker underwent a transplant which almost proved to be a fatal at the time: his body initially rejected the new organ but Bruce did eventually recover.

"He was a great musician and composer, and a tremendous inspiration to me," said Clapton. The guitarist posted an acoustic song in the bassist's honor, writing "For Jack�".