11/22/2025
A tribute to one of the greatest music icons to come from the Minneapolis camp - Jellybean Johnson.
If you’ve ever heard of, “Jellybean! Don’t be so mean!” then you were about to experience this man’s formidable drum chops.
We all know Jellybean’s accomplishments in the Funk world.
But what was not readily known was his generosity, his sense of humor, good heart, and love of life despite health challenges and disappointing betrayals.
Jellybean Johnson was a big part of Official Biz’s journey as independent artists. When we got the call to collaborate with Jellybean Johnson, we jumped at the chance.
About 5 years ago, it was a fateful moment when we met Jeff Luna, one of Jellybean’s managers and we were honored to be invited to be his backing band for the first time and shared the stage with him to perform some of the hits that he produced such as Janet Jackson’s Black Cat. Then the concept for an Official Biz and Jellybean collaboration for the next album was born.
The next year, we were happy to collaborate and perform with Jellybean again when we were called upon to be on stage with him for the Prince Tribute, Nothing compares to P.
An album collaboration with Official Biz was inevitable and the work for the second album is underway featuring artists such as Law Worrell, Doctor Fink, The Jets, Sananda Maitreya (FKA Terence Trent D’Arby), Eddie M and more.
“Renaissance, featuring Doctor Fink and Official Biz”, the beloved funky single was released which will be a part of the future Jellybean Johnson second album.
Aside from professional projects, we have many precious memories with Jellybean. On one of the nights after Morris Day and The Time came to LA at The Greek, we went to go see the group and Jellybean took the time to hang with us despite having to take an early flight.
On another occasion, he took the time to come and play guitar on stage with us at a local bar after a concert, despite having to fly out early again the next day. Needless to say, the crowd was treated to an iconic legend playing guitar with a local band in Southern California.
You’ve probably seen the tributes on social media now mentioning how he was their friend and mentor. That is the truest Jellybean. He made you feel special no matter who you were. He was kind and had an infectious smile that made you smile and laugh with him.
Jellybean was a “paying it forward” kind of guy, a generous spirit who was not only a music icon but a music fan. So if you ever got the - “That’s a bad man” or “Thats a bad band!” comment on social media posts, you know what I mean. He wasn’t afraid to show his love in public.
We are heartbroken 💔. Our love goes out to Marty Bragg his longtime partner, his children and all the family.
We miss you so much, our sweet smiling friend. You will always be in our hearts. We will help continue your legacy and help finish your work and make you proud, Uncle Jellybean.
