R.I.P. John Blackwell Jr., drummer in Prince’s New Power Generation

R.I.P. John Blackwell Jr., drummer in Prince’s New Power Generation

John Blackwell Jr., a professional drummer who worked with the likes of Prince, D’Angelo, Justin Timberlake and more, died at the age of 43. His wife explained he had been diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2016.

Blackwell got his big break in 1998 after landing a gig drumming for Patti LaBelle. A short time later, he met Prince and was recruited to play in his band the New Power Generation. Blackwell collaborated 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.

Additionally, Blackwell toured with Justin Timberlake in 2006 and was a member of D’Angelo’s band the Vanguard.