A Legendary Beatmaker's Sudden Goodbye

Minneapolis, USASat Nov 22 2025
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The music world has lost a rhythm pioneer. Garry George Johnson, famously known as Jellybean, has passed away at 69. His family shared the sad news, but they didn't say why he died. Jellybean was more than just a drummer. He was a key player in creating the Minneapolis Sound, a mix of funk, rock, and soul that defined an era. As a founding member of The Time, he helped shape the band's unique style. The group later became Morris Day and the Time and the Original 7ven, but Jellybean's impact remained strong. His talent wasn't limited to drumming. Jellybean was also a skilled guitarist and producer. He even played a version of himself in the 1984 movie "Purple Rain" and worked on Janet Jackson's hit "Black Cat. " Beyond music, Jellybean was a family man and a community supporter. He co-founded the Minneapolis Sound Museum with his wife and her daughter. The museum is a tribute to the city's rich musical history. Just days before his passing, Jellybean celebrated his birthday. His sudden death leaves a void in the music scene and the hearts of his fans.