Jellybean Johnson, Architect of the Minneapolis Sound, Dies at 69
Garry George “Jellybean” Johnson, the innovative drummer and foundational figure behind the iconic funk band The Time, has passed away unexpectedly at the age of 69. His death, occurring just days after his birthday on November 19th, was confirmed by his family on Saturday, November 21, 2025, according to a statement.
Johnson’s influence extended far beyond his role as the sole drummer in The Time’s history. He was a pivotal architect of the “Minneapolis Sound,” a genre that reshaped popular music in the 1980s and continues to inspire artists today. The family’s statement eloquently captured his essence: “Jellybean was an innovator of what became known across the world as the Minneapolis Sound…Jellybean loved his family, his friends and the city of Minneapolis.”
Born in Chicago in 1956, Johnson’s musical journey began in earnest after relocating to north Minneapolis with his mother at age 19. A drum kit, gifted by his mother as a positive outlet, became his instrument of transformation. He meticulously honed his skills, absorbing influences from a diverse range of radio stations.
“When I moved here, Black radio was only on for four hours from 1 to 5 in the afternoon,” Johnson recalled. “That forced me to listen to a lot of white rock stations. That’s how I got into Three Dog Night and Black Sabbath and Red Earth and all those kinds of people and stuff, and that changed me too musically.” This eclectic exposure shaped his unique rhythmic sensibility, a cornerstone of the Minneapolis Sound.
It was in Minneapolis that Johnson connected with a constellation of burgeoning musical talents – Prince, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, and Morris Day. These formative collaborations would soon ignite a musical revolution.
“We had to be 14, 15, 16 years old. Oh yeah, we started early, honey. Yes, we did,” Johnson reminisced. Music provided a vital focus, a creative haven. “That kept us off the streets; we had a place where we could go and practice our craft.”
Together, Johnson, Jam, Lewis, Monte Moir, Jesse Johnson, and Jerome Benton formed The Time, a band that would become synonymous with the Minneapolis Sound. Their discography is a treasure trove of funk anthems, including “Get It Up,” “The Bird,” “Cool,” “777-9311,” “Jungle Love,” and “Jerk Out.” These songs weren’t just hits; they were cultural touchstones.
Beyond his pivotal role with The Time, Johnson’s production prowess was highly sought after. He notably produced Janet Jackson’s chart-topping 1990 single, “Black Cat,” and lent his drumming and production skills to Patti LaBelle, The Human League, New Edition, Cherrelle, and Alexander O’Neal. His influence resonated across genres and generations.
Johnson’s artistry extended to the stage, where he performed alongside Rihanna at the 50th Grammy Awards. He also led the Jellybean Johnson Experience, a platform dedicated to showcasing emerging talent from the Minneapolis music scene. He understood the importance of nurturing the next generation of musicians.
In 2022, Johnson solidified his commitment to preserving the legacy of the Minneapolis Sound by founding the Minneapolis Sound Museum. His vision was ambitious: to “educate, celebrate and create, while also providing an environment to learn, gather and showcase artistry that preserves and fosters the Minneapolis Sound genre.” What lasting impact will this museum have on the future of music education?
Johnson’s passing leaves a void in the music world, but his innovative spirit and enduring contributions will continue to inspire. How will the Minneapolis Sound evolve in the wake of his absence?
The Legacy of the Minneapolis Sound
The Minneapolis Sound, largely defined by the work of Prince and The Time, was characterized by its innovative blend of funk, rock, and pop. It was a sound that prioritized groove, experimentation, and a distinctive use of synthesizers and drum machines. Britannica details the sound’s unique characteristics and its impact on the music industry.
Johnson’s drumming was integral to this sound, providing a rhythmic foundation that allowed for the genre’s signature syncopation and energy. His ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles was a key element of The Time’s success and the broader Minneapolis Sound movement. He wasn’t just a drummer; he was a sonic architect.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jellybean Johnson
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What was Jellybean Johnson’s role in The Time?
Jellybean Johnson was the founding and only drummer for The Time throughout their entire history, playing a crucial role in defining the band’s signature sound.
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What is the Minneapolis Sound?
The Minneapolis Sound is a unique genre of funk, rock, and pop music that emerged from Minneapolis in the 1980s, largely shaped by artists like Prince and The Time. Jellybean Johnson was a key innovator of this sound.
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Besides The Time, who did Jellybean Johnson produce?
Jellybean Johnson produced music for a diverse range of artists, including Janet Jackson (“Black Cat”), Patti LaBelle, The Human League, New Edition, Cherrelle, and Alexander O’Neal.
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What was the purpose of the Minneapolis Sound Museum?
The Minneapolis Sound Museum, founded by Jellybean Johnson, aimed to educate, celebrate, and preserve the legacy of the Minneapolis Sound genre, providing a space for learning and artistic expression.
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How did Jellybean Johnson get started in music?
Jellybean Johnson began playing drums after his mother bought him a drum kit to keep him occupied and out of trouble. He honed his skills by listening to a wide variety of music on the radio.
Share this tribute to a musical legend and join the conversation below. What are your favorite Jellybean Johnson memories?
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