Yearning for time with controversial artist (6)
I believe the answer is:
thirst
'yearning' is the definition.
(thesaurus)
I don't understand the rest of the clue.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for thirst that I've seen before include "Strong desire from dehydration?" , "The inducement for 5 Down" , "A craving for drink or knowledge" , "Want of drink" , "Strong desire for something" .)