Jellybean Johnson, Drummer for Prince's The Time, Passes Away at 69

The legendary drummer Jellybean Johnson, key to The Time's iconic sound, has died suddenly at 69.

Remembering Jellybean Johnson: A Minneapolis Funk Legend

It’s never easy to say goodbye to a musical trailblazer, especially one who helped shape the unmistakable Minneapolis sound. Jellybean Johnson, the dynamic drummer and producer famously known for his work with Prince’s protégés The Time, passed away suddenly at the age of 69. His rhythm and soul left an indelible mark on funk rock and R&B music, and his legacy resonates deeply with fans and fellow musicians alike.

Jellybean Johnson, the heartbeat behind The Time’s groove.

From Chicago Roots to Minneapolis Beats

Born Garry George Johnson in Chicago, Jellybean’s journey to musical stardom took a pivotal turn when his family moved to Minneapolis during his childhood. This city wasn’t just a backdrop—it was the incubator for a musical revolution that would later be dubbed the "Minneapolis Sound."

Johnson’s passion and talent quickly found a home in The Time, a band Prince formed in 1981 to showcase and produce fresh talent from Minneapolis. This group wasn’t just a side project; it was a powerhouse funk rock ensemble that blended infectious grooves with a rebellious edge.

The Time: Funk Rock Pioneers

Jellybean was the backbone of The Time’s first three studio albums:

• The Time (1980)
• What Time Is It? (1982)
• Ice Cream Castle (1984)

Each of these records is a funk masterpiece, blending tight drumming with irresistible hooks. Johnson’s style provided the perfect pulse, giving the band a sound that was both danceable and defiant.

The band’s chemistry was electric, and their music still echoes through the halls of funk history. Jellybean left the group in 1985, but his contributions remained central to their identity.

Beyond The Time: A Producer’s Touch

Johnson wasn’t just a drummer; he was a producer with a golden touch. Collaborating closely with the talented production duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, he helped craft hits that defined an era.

He produced tracks for stars like Alexander O’Neal, New Edition, and Cherrelle, adding his signature groove and polish. One of his crowning achievements was producing Janet Jackson’s “Black Cat,” a fierce rock-infused anthem that soared to Number One in 1990.

The Time’s “Jungle Love” is pure funk magic — Jellybean’s drumming at its finest.

Janet Jackson’s “Black Cat” showcases Jellybean’s powerful production skills.

A Return to The Time and Later Life Highlights

In 1990, Jellybean reunited with The Time for Prince’s film Graffiti Bridge, also contributing to the album Pandemonium. His return was a reminder of the undeniable chemistry and the timeless groove he brought to the band.

One of the standout moments later in his career was performing alongside pop icon Rihanna at the 2008 Grammy Awards—a testament to his versatility and enduring relevance.

Champion of Minneapolis Sound

Jellybean’s love for Minneapolis never waned. He led the Jellybean Johnson Experience, a project dedicated to uplifting grassroots musicians in the city. Even more impressively, in 2022, he founded the Minneapolis Sound Museum, created to educate, celebrate, and nurture the genre he helped invent.

The museum’s mission was close to Jellybean’s heart: “to provide an environment to learn, gather and showcase artistry that preserves and fosters the Minneapolis Sound genre.” His commitment to legacy was as strong as his beat.

Tributes from the Funk Community

The news of Johnson’s passing hit hard, especially among fellow musicians. Sheila E., a fellow percussionist known for her own collaborations with Prince, shared a heartfelt tribute:

“We are devastated by this news. I’m praying for his family and all the kids. He was a kind human being, extremely talented and funny. He had a great sense of humor and [was] an awesome guitar player. Yesterday was your birthday, I forgot to call you and I’m so sorry. I love u Bean. Rest in peace and power.”

— Sheila E.

Such words remind us how deeply woven Jellybean was into the fabric of the music world—not just as a powerhouse musician but as a beloved friend and mentor.

Jellybean Johnson’s Lasting Legacy

Jellybean Johnson’s sudden departure leaves a void in the music community, but his influence is immortal. From the funky beats that made The Time a household name to the hits he produced behind the scenes, his rhythm continues to pulse through generations.

Whether you’re tapping your foot to a classic Time track or rocking out to Janet Jackson’s “Black Cat,” Jellybean’s artistry is everywhere, a testament to a life lived fully in the groove.

What’s your favorite Jellybean Johnson moment? Is it a particular song, a live performance, or a memory of the Minneapolis sound? Share your thoughts and celebrate the beats that keep us moving.

FAQ

• How did Jellybean Johnson contribute to The Time’s success?
  Jellybean was the drummer on their first three albums, providing the tight, funky rhythms that defined their sound.
• What are some hit songs produced by Jellybean Johnson?
  He produced Janet Jackson’s “Black Cat” and worked with artists like Alexander O’Neal, New Edition, and Cherrelle.
• Did Jellybean Johnson ever perform with Prince?
  Yes, he was part of The Time, a band formed by Prince, and appeared in Prince’s film Graffiti Bridge.
• What was the Minneapolis Sound Museum?
  Founded by Jellybean in 2022, it’s dedicated to preserving and celebrating the unique Minneapolis Sound genre.
• Did Jellybean Johnson continue performing later in life?
  Absolutely. Notably, he performed with Rihanna at the 2008 Grammy Awards and led the Jellybean Johnson Experience.

Celebrate the grooves and rhythms that shaped music history—shop your favorite album cover posters featuring Jellybean Johnson and The Time at our store: Architeg Prints.