RIP Jellybean Johnson - I met Jellybean/ JB in the summer of 2025 when my group, Timex Social Club, opened for The Time in Porterville, CA. Though it was my fourth time sharing the stage with The Time, this was the first time JB was the drummer due to lineup changes over the years.
At the hotel before the show, I helped him with a cellphone issue he was dealing with. I didn’t introduce myself, ask for a photo, or bore him with how his band (The Time) had inspired me and was probably the sole reason that I even have a career in music; instead, I simply shared my technical knowledge and gave him his space, hoping our paths would cross again on the road.
JB was truly a “Cool” brother...pun intended. I’m grateful I had the chance to share a moment to help one of my R&B heroes, even in a small way, when he needed it.
Rest in peace, JB.