John Blackwell, American funk and jazz drummer, Died at 43

  Music

John Blackwell Jr. was born on September 9, 1973, in Columbia, South Carolina, and died on July 4, 2017.

He was an American contemporary R&B, funk, jazz, fusion, and pop drummer.

He was best known for his work with Prince.

Later, Blackwell was a member of D’Angelo’s backing band, The Vanguard.

He played with Prince for 12 years and appeared on his 2003 Live at the Aladdin Las Vegas DVD, and the 2003 instrumental album, N.E.W.S, which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Album.

He toured with Justin Timberlake in support of his 2006 FutureSex/LoveSounds album.

During June 2016, Blackwell announced that he had lost the use of his left arm and leg, and that as a result he had been diagnosed with a brain tumor.

John’s wife announced his death.

John Blackwell Jr. passed away at 43 years old.