Jellybean Johnson, Drummer and Guitarist for Prince’s Band The Time, Dies at 69

Remembering a Minneapolis Sound Legend: Jellybean Johnson (1956–2025)

Garry George “Jellybean” Johnson, the versatile musician best known as the longtime drummer and later guitarist for the iconic funk-rock group The Time, has died. He was 69 years old.

Johnson’s family confirmed that the musician passed away suddenly on Friday night, November 21, 2025. His death marks the loss of a pivotal figure in the history of the Minneapolis Sound, a genre defined by the unique fusion of funk, rock, pop, and new wave pioneered by Prince.

Jellybean Johnson was not only integral to The Time’s success but also a highly respected producer and collaborator who helped shape the sound of the 1980s and 1990s, working alongside superstars like Janet Jackson and New Edition.

The Time: The Heartbeat of the Minneapolis Sound

While The Time was initially conceived by Prince in 1981 as a vehicle for his friend and collaborator Morris Day, Jellybean Johnson quickly became essential to the band’s identity and live performance. Johnson officially joined the group in 1982, replacing the original drummer, and was instrumental in establishing the band’s signature high-energy, tightly choreographed stage presence.

Johnson’s contributions extended beyond the drum kit; he was a multi-instrumentalist who later transitioned to playing guitar for the group. His rhythmic precision and funk sensibilities were the backbone of The Time’s biggest hits, which included classics like “Jungle Love,” “The Bird,” and “Cool.”

Hollywood and the Purple Rain Era

Johnson’s tenure with The Time coincided with their peak visibility, particularly their appearance in the 1984 film Purple Rain. The movie cemented the band’s status as Prince’s primary rivals and showcased their dynamic musicality and theatrical flair to a global audience. The band’s performances in the film, especially the iconic sequence featuring “Jungle Love,” remain highlights of 1980s cinema and music history.

Johnson remained with The Time through their various iterations and reunions over the decades, consistently bringing his expertise and energy to the stage. He was a central figure alongside Morris Day, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Jesse Johnson, and Monte Moir.

A Legacy Beyond the Drums: Production and Collaboration

Jellybean Johnson’s musical influence was not limited to his work with The Time. He was a highly sought-after producer and session musician, contributing his distinctive sound to numerous chart-topping albums.

His most notable collaborations include:

• Janet Jackson: Johnson was part of the production team that worked on her groundbreaking 1986 album, Control. This album, which redefined her career and sound, featured the production genius of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, with whom Johnson frequently collaborated.
• New Edition: He contributed to the group’s sound during their transition to a more mature R&B style.
• Alexander O’Neal: Johnson worked extensively with the fellow Minneapolis artist, helping to craft O’Neal’s smooth, sophisticated R&B hits.

Johnson’s ability to seamlessly blend funk, R&B, and rock elements made him a key architect of the polished, rhythmic sound that dominated pop radio in the late 80s and early 90s.

The Enduring Impact of the Minneapolis Sound

Jellybean Johnson’s career is inseparable from the Minneapolis Sound, a genre that fundamentally altered the landscape of popular music. This sound, characterized by heavy use of synthesizers, drum machines (like the Linn LM-1), and tight, funky basslines, provided a blueprint for modern R&B and pop production.

The Time, with Johnson’s rhythmic contributions, served as the perfect foil to Prince, demonstrating the breadth and depth of the Minneapolis music scene. Their music was often characterized by a raw, energetic funk that contrasted with Prince’s more ethereal, rock-influenced tracks, yet both shared the same innovative production techniques.

Johnson’s legacy is one of dedication to rhythm and funk, ensuring that the music of The Time remains vibrant and influential decades after its creation. His passing leaves a significant void in the world of funk and R&B.

Key Takeaways: Jellybean Johnson’s Life and Career

• Who: Garry George “Jellybean” Johnson, musician, drummer, and guitarist.
• Age at Death: 69.
• Date of Death: Friday, November 21, 2025.
• Primary Role: Key member of the funk-rock band The Time, joining in 1982.
• Major Film Appearance: Featured prominently with The Time in the 1984 classic Purple Rain.
• Collaborations: Worked as a producer and musician with major artists including Janet Jackson, New Edition, and Alexander O’Neal.
• Legacy: A foundational figure in the development and popularization of the Minneapolis Sound.

Conclusion

Jellybean Johnson’s death is a profound loss for the music community, particularly those who cherish the innovative sounds of the 1980s. His work with The Time provided some of the most enduring and enjoyable funk music of the era, showcasing not just technical skill but a deep understanding of groove and showmanship. As fans and peers mourn his passing, his rhythmic legacy, captured in countless recordings and performances, will continue to inspire new generations of musicians to embrace the funk.