John Blackwell, Prince's Long-Time Drummer, Dead at 43

John Blackwell, Prince’s Long-Time Drummer, has passed away at 43. Watch the video for more details.

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[j.payneenyapproductions]

Such a GREAT friend and drummer. He is one of the reasons Prince wanted to meet me and why we ALL got to jam together. Larry Graham, Prince, Blackwell and myself jamming at Paisley Psrk...pricless. I was there for him during the tragedy when his daughter drowned and the good times. I will FOREVER miss that dude !!! Rest in God's memory for now my friend. JP

[apacherumble]

When I saw Prince live Mr. Blackwell was the one and only musician in any of his bands that made me take my eyes off Prince and started paying close attention to someone else just because he was playing his instrument with such flare and depth. John Blackwell RIP brother.

[bfrvz]

Wow!!! this really hits home, I'm still trying to deal with the passing of Prince and now this. What a great drummer he was, I'm sure he's twirling his sticks in heaven with his dear friend. RIP John

[deandrejones]

I remember seeing prince with John Blackwell on the musicology tour. Every song that he did on drums was simply spectacular!! that last song was purple rain... simply amazing!!! this was in my hometown Omaha, Nebraska in 2004. sad to see another funky drummer gone. this really breaks my heart. RIP John. U will b miss! One love!

[jgutie]

I believe he replaced Kirk Johnson not Michael Bland on drums in about 2000. Sad loss, arguably Prince's most talented drummer

[joeseafer]

JUST LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW. JOHN BLACK WELL JR WAS A GREAT MAN. A GENIUS ON THE DRUMS. MAY JOHN BLACKWELL REST IN PEACE

[ashleywhite]

RIP John Blackwell Jr.
Sad that he left so young.

[danielles]

What the heck am I doing with my life, I have never been this early, When I heard of his passing my heart dropped and I immediately posted on Instagram

[Supernova]

Aww...how sad. He's just too soon to be gone in this world. May he Rest In Peace . I'll always think of him and Prince.

[breezyoceanblue]

Excellent at his craft! !
Very sorry to hear this.

[LD-pwoq]

Wow, what an enjoyable video this was with Blackwell. I loved his Prince stories. They were making me giggle and laugh. Thank you for this and sorry for the family. We lost a very talented and great drummer. I feel that Prince has welcomed him home.

[charlenejames]

Heard he was sick, So sorry to here he passed. Much love and sympathy to his family.

[teresaalexander]

So sorry didn't know! Thankyou for sharing. Not sure when this video came out but never the less I'm very sorry.

[MrAntsworldofPrince]

very sad and tragic taken before his time. was in our thoughts at the weekend when the npg came to London.