John Blackwell has Passed

John Blackwell, former drummer for the late legend Prince, has passed at the age of just 43. His wife, Yaritza, took to his Instagram account to announce his death. The comment she wrote was, "My husband incredible drummer John Blackwell Jr. passed the way peacefully in my company today (July 4). Thanks God for his life and thanks everyone for their support."

Blackwell is from Columbia, South Carolina, and has been living in Tampa, Florida. He has been performing for Prince's band The New Generation for 15 years and had played for many other artists such as Justin Timberlake, D'Angelo, Cameo, and Patti LaBelle. He even accompanied Timberlake's 2006 Future Sex and Love Sounds tour. However, within his musical career, he was diagnosed with having two brain tumors while vacationing in Japan in 2016. A GoFundMe page was set up in order to aid in covering the medical costs and bills which reached a whooping $78,000 a few days ago.

Many drummers reached out to the late musician on the social media platform and sent their condolences and solace to him and his family. It is unfortunate for someone so talented and barely peaking to pass so young and at such a prime-time in life. But, even with his tragic passing, the drummer's beats and rhythm so gripping, and his flow and soul so moving, will continuously live on in the hearts of those who adored him.

-Kayla Steward