Jellybean Johnson of ‘The Time’ Dies Suddenly at 69
*Garry George “Jellybean” Johnson, a founding member of Prince’s funk band The Time, has died at the age of 69. His family confirmed that Johnson passed away on Friday, November 21, just two days after his birthday, according to RollingStone and other news outlets. No cause of death has been shared publicly.
Johnson’s influence shaped the Minneapolis Sound—a genre that blended funk, rock, R&B, and pop. He was best known for his drumming and guitar work with The Time, one of Prince’s most successful musical side projects.
Jellybean Johnson Helped Shape the Minneapolis Sound
Born in Chicago in 1956, Johnson moved to Minneapolis as a child and began exploring music early. He took drum lessons at 13 but taught himself to play guitar, which became one of his signature skills.
Johnson quickly became part of a musical movement that defined the 1980s. His work helped shape the Minneapolis Sound, a genre popularized by Prince and his collaborators.
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‘The Time’ Was Johnson’s Launchpad to Fame
In 1981, Prince recruited Johnson to join The Time as its drummer. The band’s self-titled debut album featured funk hits like “Get It Up” and “Cool.” They reached wider audiences through the film “Purple Rain,” where they performed “Jungle Love” and “The Bird.”
The Time reunited multiple times, including a 1990 comeback with the Top 10 hit “Jerk Out.” They also performed with Rihanna at the 2008 Grammy Awards, showcasing their lasting influence.
He Produced Hits With Janet Jackson and More
Outside of The Time, Johnson was a trusted collaborator with producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. He played guitar and co-produced hits such as Janet Jackson’s “Black Cat,” which reached No. 1 in 1990.
His production credits include songs for Alexander O’Neal, Cherrelle, New Edition, and Mint Condition. Johnson contributed to more than a dozen Grammy-nominated albums and worked on several platinum-selling records.
In Later Years, He Focused on Mentorship and Legacy
Even in his later years, Johnson remained active in music. He performed with Morris Day and led the Jellybean Johnson Experience, mentoring young Minneapolis artists.
In 2022, he founded the Minneapolis Sound Museum, preserving the history of the genre he helped pioneer. Johnson once described that musical style in just one word: “Funky.”
Sheila E. Pays Tribute to Prince Associate Jellybean Johnson Following His Death: ‘We Are Devastated’ https://t.co/Z8THTsxx6E
— TheWrap (@TheWrap) November 22, 2025
Fans and Fellow Artists Pay Tribute to Johnson
Tributes poured in after news of his death broke online. Musician Sheila E. posted on Facebook, calling him “my dear friend” and praising the love he brought to their musical circle.
Singer Susannah Melvoin, who worked with him in The Family, described him on Instagram as her “beautiful brother.” She recalled his kindness and guitar genius with affection.
Social Media Mourns the Loss of a Funk Legend
Thousands of fans took to social media to remember Johnson’s talent and energy. One popular post from @funkatopia on X read, “R.I.P. – It is with a very heavy heart to announce that The Time’s Jellybean Johnson has passed away,” alongside photos of him performing.
Another user, @angeliquesoul, wrote, “I’m so saddened to hear Jellybean Johnson has passed away. He will truly be missed. He was an amazing musician. Gone too soon.”
Why Jellybean Johnson’s Legacy Still Matters
Jellybean Johnson leaves behind a powerful legacy filled with groundbreaking music and mentorship. His work with Prince, The Time, and other artists helped define an entire musical era.
He is survived by his partner Marty, their children, and countless fans in the Minneapolis music scene. Johnson’s memory lives on in the grooves and rhythms that changed popular music forever.
“With a heavy heart, my dear friend Jellybean passed away a couple of hours ago.” — Sheila E.
“He was my beautiful brother. I will miss your kindness, your guitar playing, and our ‘Family’ bond.” — Susannah Melvoin
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