Editor's Note: First Notes is a weekly update of recent happenings in the world of music.
* Jack Bruce, co-founder and bassist of the group Cream, has died at age 71. Cream, which released four albums in the 1960s, also featured drummer Ginger Baker and some guitarist named Eric Clapton. Bruce was the writer behind two of the band's biggest hits, “I Feel Free” and “Sunshine of Your Love.”
* Aaron Lewis should stop throwing stones in glass houses. Back in February 2011, Lewis publicly chastised Christina Aguilera for botching the National Anthem at the Super Bowl. Well, last night Lewis sang the "Star Spangled Banner" at the World Series and made a mix-up of his own. He has since apologized — to the nation, not Aguilera.
* Temple of the Dog reunited at the Bridge School Benefit concert over the weekend. The California concert featured both Pearl Jam and Soundgarden, so it's no surprise that Soundgarden singer Chris Cornell hit the stage to join Pearl Jam for "Hunger Strike."
* Taylor Swift might have one of the nation's top-5 songs with "Shake It Off," but it's Kelly Clarkson's soulful rendition that is getting all the attention. Check it out: