Archive · 22 Nov 2025
Jellybean Johnson, The Time Drummer and Producer, Dies at 69
Jellybean Johnson, a famous drummer and music producer, died suddenly at the age of 69.
He was known for being in the band The Time and producing hits like Janet Jackson's 'Black Cat'.
Many people, including Sheila E., remembered him as a kind and talented person.
Jellybean Johnson, drummer of The Time and music producer, has died at 69
He died suddenly on Friday night, cause of death not immediately disclosed
Sheila E. mourned his death on Facebook, remembering him as kind, talented, and funny
Johnson was a founding member of The Time in 1981, recruited by Prince
He produced hits like Janet Jackson's 'Black Cat' and worked with Patti LaBelle, New Edition, and others
- Who
- Jellybean Johnson, drummer of The Time and music producer
- What
- died suddenly at 69
- When
- on Friday night
- Where
- not specified
- Why
- cause of death not immediately disclosed
- Born
- Nov. 19, 1956, in Chicago
- Moved to
- Minneapolis as a child
- Joined The Time
- in 1981, recruited by Prince
- Produced hits for
- Janet Jackson, Patti LaBelle, New Edition, and others
- Founded
- Minneapolis Sound Museum in 2022