Jellybean Johnson, drummer for The Time, passes away at age 69

Jellybean Johnson, renowned drummer for the band The Time and a well-respected producer, has sadly passed away at the age of 69. His family announced his peaceful passing on a Friday night, although the exact cause of his death remains undisclosed. Known by his birth name Garry George Johnson, he gained fame as a pivotal member of The Time, a funk rock group curated by musical icon Prince in 1981. The formation of The Time was part of Prince’s contractual obligations to foster emerging talents from Minneapolis, such as Johnson. Johnson made significant contributions to the band’s initial three studio albums, namely The Time, What Time Is It?, and Ice Cream Castle, released between 1980 and 1984. After parting ways with The Time in 1985, Johnson embarked on a successful career as a producer, working on hit singles for artists like Alexander O’Neal, New Edition, and Cherrelle.

Among his many accomplishments, Johnson notably produced Janet Jackson’s chart-topping single Black Cat in 1990. He later reunited with The Time for the movie Graffiti Bridge in the same year, playing drums on the accompanying album Pandemonium. In a standout moment in his later years, Johnson shared the stage with Rihanna at the 2008 Grammy Awards, showcasing his timeless talent and enduring legacy in the music industry.