Legendary drummer and Minneapolis Sound pioneer Jellybean Johnson (born Garry George Johnson) passed away on the evening of November 21, 2025, at the age of 69 — just two days after his birthday.
Career Legacy
- Johnson co‑founded the iconic band The Time with Prince in the early 1980s, serving as its only drummer across all its iterations, including Morris Day & The Time and The Original 7ven.
- A key architect of the “Minneapolis Sound,” he blended funk, rock and soul into a signature style that powered hits like “Jungle Love” and “Ice Cream Castles.”
- Beyond his band work, Johnson produced Janet Jackson’s No. 1 hit “Black Cat” and contributed richly to Flyte Tyme Productions, affecting generations of R&B and pop.
Circumstances of His Passing
His family confirmed that he died suddenly, with the cause of death not yet publicly disclosed. Johnson had just celebrated his 69th birthday on November 19, 2025.
Why His Death Resonates
- Johnson’s contributions helped shape a new musical movement in the 1980s, and his influence extended well beyond his own performances — shaping how funk and pop merged in the mainstream.
- His passing highlights the fragility of creative legacies: one of the key figures behind The Time is now gone, leaving behind a body of work and cultural impact that will endure.
- As fans and peers pay tribute, the event also prompts reflection on how influential musicians are honored, remembered and preserved — including through entities like the Minneapolis Sound Museum, which Johnson helped establish.
What to Watch
- Official statements or memorial events from The Time, Prince’s estate, or the Minneapolis Sound Museum.
- Posthumous releases or archival materials featuring Johnson’s work — whether with The Time, Flyte Tyme Productions or solo projects.
- How his influence will be celebrated in retrospectives, tributes and music‑documentary features in the coming months.
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