Jerome Benton, a multifaceted American artist, burst onto the scene with his remarkable talents as a musician, dancer, and comedic actor, taking the world by storm with his birth on September 19, 1962.
Throughout his illustrious career, Benton has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, making memorable appearances in music videos for some of the most iconic and celebrated artists of all time, including the incomparable Janet Jackson and the legendary Prince.
However, it is his association with the groundbreaking funk band, The Time, that has cemented his place in the annals of music history, solidifying his status as an integral part of the band's enduring legacy.
As the half-brother of renowned Time bassist Terry Lewis, Benton Lewis played a pivotal role in the band's formative years, dedicating himself to a crucial behind-the-scenes effort. His innate comedic flair and impressive dancing abilities swiftly rendered him an indispensable member of the group, frequently serving as a perfect counterbalance to the lead vocals of Morris Day.
There was a pivotal moment in the band's performance history when Day made an unexpected request, and Benton, without any delay or hesitation, swiftly removed a mirror from the club's restroom and carried it onto the stage, presenting it to Day so that he could meticulously groom his hair in a manner that was both precise and deliberate.
Noteworthy events in the illustrious career of Morris Day began to unfold in the year 1983, when the renowned musical duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, with whom Day had collaborated, found themselves in a predicament that would ultimately lead to their departure from the tour.
Consequently, the legendary Prince, a mentor and friend to Day, entrusted him with the responsibility of filling in for the absent Terry Lewis on stage. This unexpected turn of events took place in San Antonio, where the concert was scheduled to take place.
As Day took to the stage, he was faced with the unusual task of performing without the accompaniment of a bass guitar, which was deliberately left unplugged. Meanwhile, Prince, the mastermind behind the scene, provided the bass line from backstage, thereby ensuring a seamless performance.
This remarkable display of musicianship and adaptability showcased Day's ability to think on his feet and rise to the challenge, ultimately paving the way for his future endeavors in the music industry.
Unfortunately, the duo of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, who had initially been the driving force behind the tour, would eventually be let go due to circumstances that unfolded during the tour.
Benton's impressive filmography boasts an extensive range of cinematic endeavors, with one notable appearance being in the 1984 motion picture Purple Rain, where he skillfully portrayed the character of Morris Day's loyal bodyguard and valet, expertly complementing the iconic performances of the film's stars.
After the disbandment of The Time, Morris Day embarked on a successful solo career, leaving Prince to continue his musical endeavors with a new project, The Family, which featured the talented trio of Jesse Johnson, Jellybean Johnson, and Paul Peterson. This collaborative effort, though short-lived, would ultimately pave the way for future reunions and new musical endeavors.
On December 13, 2003, Jesse Johnson rejoined The Family for a special charity performance, marking a significant milestone in the group's history. This reunion sparked renewed interest in the group, leading to the announcement of a brand new record and tour in 2007.
