Celebration of Life Announced for Minneapolis Sound Icon Jellybean Johnson
The Celebration of Life has been announced for Garry George “Jellybean” Johnson, the influential Minneapolis Sound producer, songwriter, and musician who helped shape generations of funk, R and B, and pop music. Johnson passed away on November 21, 2025, at age 69. Public celebrations honoring his life and legacy will take place Saturday, December 20, across Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Funeral arrangements have been finalized for Garry George “Jellybean” Johnson, the iconic Minneapolis Sound producer, songwriter, and musician whose influence shaped generations of music. Johnson passed away on November 21, 2025, just days after celebrating his 69th birthday on November 19.
Johnson was a key architect of the Minneapolis Sound and is widely known for his work with Prince, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Janet Jackson, The Time, Morris Day, and Mint Condition. His contributions helped define an era of funk, R and B, and pop that placed Minneapolis on the global music map.
Family, friends, fellow musicians, and fans will honor Johnson through a series of public celebrations on Saturday, December 20, in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Celebration of Life
Garry George “Jellybean” Johnson
A public Celebration of Life will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Shiloh Temple, located at 1201 West Broadway Avenue in Minneapolis.
Pete Rhodes will serve as Master of Ceremonies, with Reverend Jerry McAfee presiding. The service will include performances by Sounds of Blackness and Monique Blakely, along with special guests, reflections from family members, and a eulogy honoring Johnson’s life and legacy.
The service will begin promptly at 11 a.m. and will be livestreamed. A repast will follow immediately afterward for family and close friends only.
“Music, Love and Legacy”
A Celebration of Jellybean Johnson
Later that afternoon, a second public celebration titled “Music, Love and Legacy” will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Mosaic, located at 817 Fifth Avenue South, Suite 300, in Minneapolis.
James “Popeye” Greer will serve as Master of Ceremonies. This event is dedicated to the musicians who performed alongside Johnson throughout his career. Family, friends, and fans are invited to gather and share memories of Johnson and his music. Food will be provided.
Admission is free, though guests must present identification to enter the venue. Portions of the event will be livestreamed.
Evening Tribute at Minnesota Music Cafe
The night will conclude with a musical tribute featuring Jellybean Johnson’s favorite band, Jaybee and The Routine, from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Minnesota Music Cafe, located at 501 Payne Avenue in St. Paul.
Guests must present identification to enter, and a cover charge will apply to enjoy the live performance.
Johnson’s legacy as a musician, mentor, and cultural force continues to resonate throughout the Twin Cities and beyond. These gatherings offer an opportunity for the community to honor a life devoted to music, creativity, and love.