Jellybean Johnson, Drummer for The Time and Janet Jackson Producer, Dies at 69

Remembering Jellybean Johnson: A Pillar of the Minneapolis Sound

The music world is mourning the loss of Garry George Johnson, known professionally as Jellybean Johnson, the dynamic drummer for the iconic funk-rock band The Time and a Grammy-winning producer. Johnson died suddenly on a recent Friday night in November 2025 at the age of 69.

Jellybean Johnson was not only the rhythmic engine behind The Time’s signature sound—a blend of funk, R&B, and new wave—but also a crucial figure in the extended Minneapolis music ecosystem, contributing significantly to the careers of artists including Janet Jackson and New Edition.

His death marks the passing of one of the most respected and versatile musicians to emerge from the fertile ground of Prince’s Paisley Park universe, leaving behind a legacy defined by infectious grooves and groundbreaking production work.

The Engine of The Time: Funk, Flash, and Precision

Jellybean Johnson’s primary claim to fame was his role as the drummer for The Time, the band famously conceived by Prince and fronted by Morris Day. Johnson joined the group in 1982, replacing the original drummer, and quickly established himself as a powerhouse instrumentalist.

His drumming style was characterized by its sharp, machine-like precision, fused with the raw, improvisational energy of funk. This unique combination was essential to The Time’s success, providing the backbone for hits like “Jungle Love,” “The Bird,” and “Cool.”

The Purple Rain Era and Global Recognition

The Time achieved global recognition following their appearance in the 1984 film Purple Rain. Johnson’s role in the movie, alongside Day, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, and Jesse Johnson, cemented the band’s status as a cultural phenomenon. While the band experienced internal shifts and hiatuses over the decades, Johnson remained a constant presence in various iterations, including the highly anticipated reunion tours.

Key Albums Featuring Jellybean Johnson’s Drumming:

• Ice Cream Castle (1984)
• Pandemonium (1990)
• The Time (1981, though he joined later, his style defined the live sound)

Beyond the Kit: A Producer’s Touch

While his drumming skills were legendary, Johnson’s influence extended significantly into the recording studio as a producer and songwriter. His most notable production work came through his collaboration with former bandmates Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.

Johnson was instrumental in crafting the sound of Janet Jackson’s seminal 1986 album, Control. This album was a watershed moment in pop and R&B, establishing Jackson as an independent artist and defining the sound of late 80s and early 90s R&B production. Johnson contributed to the album’s success, which earned him significant industry recognition.

His production credits also include work with other major artists who defined the era, showcasing his versatility across funk, R&B, and pop genres:

• Janet Jackson: Contributing to the revolutionary sound of the Control album.
• New Edition: Helping shape their transition into mature R&B.
• Alexander O’Neal: A fellow Minneapolis scene veteran.

The Legacy of the Minneapolis Sound

Jellybean Johnson was a quintessential figure of the Minneapolis Sound, a genre characterized by its heavy use of synthesizers, drum machines (often layered with live drumming), and a fusion of rock energy with R&B grooves. This sound, pioneered primarily by Prince, relied heavily on the talents of musicians like Johnson to translate complex arrangements into visceral, danceable music.

His connection to the scene was deep, having worked not only with Prince’s direct associates but also with the broader network of artists who defined the city’s musical explosion in the 1980s. His ability to move seamlessly between the live intensity of a drummer and the meticulous detail of a studio producer made him invaluable.

“Jellybean was the heartbeat of The Time. His groove was undeniable, and his understanding of funk rhythm was unmatched. He helped define an entire era of music,” a close associate stated following the news of his passing.

Industry Reactions and Enduring Impact

The news of Johnson’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from former bandmates, collaborators, and fans across the music industry, highlighting his kind nature and immense talent.

His legacy is secure not just in the records he played on, but in the blueprint he helped create for modern funk and R&B drumming. The influence of The Time, and specifically Johnson’s tight, syncopated rhythms, can be heard in subsequent generations of funk-pop artists.

Johnson’s career serves as a powerful reminder that the success of the Prince-era Minneapolis Sound was built on the foundation of extraordinary individual talents, of which Garry “Jellybean” Johnson was undoubtedly one of the most essential.

Key Takeaways: Jellybean Johnson’s Career

For readers seeking immediate context on the life and career of Garry “Jellybean” Johnson, here are the essential facts:

• Name: Garry George Johnson (Jellybean Johnson).
• Age at Death: 69 (November 2025).
• Primary Role: Drummer for the influential funk-rock band The Time.
• Major Collaborations: Key producer and musician for Janet Jackson, contributing to the landmark Control album.
• Musical Style: Integral to the development of the Minneapolis Sound, blending precise drumming with funk and rock elements.
• Film: Featured prominently in the 1984 movie Purple Rain, alongside Prince and Morris Day.

Conclusion: The Beat Goes On

Jellybean Johnson’s passing closes a significant chapter in the history of funk and R&B. His contributions, both as the driving rhythmic force of The Time and as a producer who shaped the sound of global superstars, cemented his place in music history. He leaves behind a body of work that continues to inspire musicians and move audiences, ensuring that the beat he laid down will resonate for decades to come.