Jesse Johnson (May 31, 1985) “Johnson revue a bit short in local debut” – Star Tribune (US)

Concert review of Jesse Johnson’s Revue making their local debut at First Avenue in Minneapolis, following the breakup of The Time.

PUBLICATION: Date: May 31, 1985 Country: United States

Section / Pages: Entertainment / Review (Page 2C)

Title: Johnson revue a bit short in local debut

THE STORY

Jon Bream reviews Jesse Johnson’s Revue performance at First Avenue. While noting Johnson’s charisma, strong backing band, and hits like “Be Your Man,” the review criticizes the show for lacking tightness, confidence, and pacing compared to The Time. The article mentions the group’s flashy presentation and audience participation.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

This review appeared the day after Jesse Johnson’s 25th birthday show during his first major solo tour. As a key member of Prince’s The Time, Johnson was launching his solo career with his debut album Jesse Johnson’s Revue, which had already sold around 400,000 copies. The piece reflects the high expectations placed on Prince’s protégés in the Minneapolis scene.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS 

Event: Live Concert Review

Era: Jesse Johnson’s Revue / Post-Time Era (1985)

Tone: Mixed, observant, slightly critical Photography: Large portrait of a smiling Jesse Johnson

“Johnson revue a bit short in local debut”

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS 

Full Minneapolis Star and Tribune newspaper page with bold headline, prominent photo of Jesse Johnson, and detailed review text. Classic 1980s newspaper layout with visible print quality.

RELATED MATERIAL

• Jesse Johnson (May 1, 2026) Jesse Johnson Revue / Shockadelica / Every Shade Of Love – 2CD Out Now

• Jesse Johnson (March 10, 1985) Jesse Johnson’s Revue – Star and Tribune Album Review

• The Time (Prince’s Original Minneapolis Funk Empire)

See tabs at the foot of this post.

All magazine scans, photographs and original text excerpts remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.