Session players are valued for their supreme taste and versatility, their way of making every record date they do come alive. John “JR” Robinson is at the top of that heap. From his pithy drum intros alone, you know the songs: “Rock with You” by Michael Jackson, “Higher Love” by Steve Winwood. On these and scores of other major pop songs, by such artists as Bonnie Raitt, Peter Cetera, Peter Frampton, Lady Gaga, Daft Punk and a dictionary-sized list of others, JR has left an indelible imprint. His groove has helped define an era in pop and R&B. We’re talking over 50 Grammy-winning singles (including “We Are the World”), over 200 U.S. Billboard Hot 100 songs, more than half a billion units sold, earning JR a permanent spot in Rolling Stone’s list of “Top 100 Drummers of All Time.”
Now JR is readying these songs for the road with The JR Robinson Experience, capturing the visceral appeal and excitement of these timeless songs while shedding new interpretive light as well.
The JR Robinson Experience is the fruit of two sold-out shows in December 2021 at The Jewell, in Omaha, Nebraska, where organist and music director Mitch Towne brought in JR and a crack band to play the iconic hits that he’d done so much to immortalize. The seed was planted, and the electrifying mood of those nights at The Jewell—“people were melting!” he attests—inspired JR to take it further. The time was right, not only for JR to share his musical gift but also his insight into the business, not to mention priceless memories working with some of popular music’s definitive artists.
To diverse audiences, JR conveys a perspective formed through 45 years in the music industry, and 50 years playing the drums. His forthcoming memoir, King of the Groove, with a foreword by Quincy Jones, reveals a quick wit and charismatic personality, sharing lessons of struggle, triumph and the power of believing in yourself to make your dreams come alive. The book speaks to musicians, fans and entrepreneurs alike, with a universal appeal that extends to JR’s live show as well.
Just a quick sampling from The JR Robinson Experience’s setlists: “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough,” “All Night Long,” “Saving All Your Love,” “Ain’t Nobody,” “I Can’t Help It,” “Slow Hand” (Pointer Sisters). With tight and compelling arrangements, delivered by top players including Dave Delhomme, Michael Thompson, Jeff Babko, Morris Pleasure, Lenny Castro, singers Allison Nash, Maya Azucena, Celeste Butler and more, The JR Robinson Experience is all about musical magic and good vibes. Guaranteed.
