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By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief
John "JR" Robinson, a name synonymous with drumming excellence, is set to take the world by storm with "The JR Robinson Experience." Known as one of the most recorded drummers in history, JR has played on more than 30 No. 1 singles, collaborating with music legends such as Michael Jackson, Chaka Khan, Steve Winwood, Lionel Richie, and Whitney Houston. Now, JR is ready to bring his unmatched talent and legacy to live stages worldwide.
Image provided by: Rob Shanahan
Session musicians are celebrated for their versatility and their ability to breathe life into every recording. John "JR" Robinson stands at the pinnacle of this profession. His iconic drum intros on hits like "Rock with You" by Michael Jackson and "Higher Love" by Steve Winwood are instantly recognizable. With over 50 Grammy-winning singles and more than 200 Billboard Hot 100 songs under his belt, JR's groove has defined an era of pop and R&B music. His contributions have earned him a permanent spot in Rolling Stone’s list of “Top 100 Drummers of All Time.”
Now, JR is transforming these timeless recordings into electrifying live performances with The JR Robinson Experience. This project, inspired by two sold-out shows at The Jewell in Omaha, Nebraska, showcases JR's extraordinary drumming and his ability to reinterpret his classic hits with a fresh perspective. The visceral excitement and musical magic from those nights at The Jewell are now set to captivate audiences around the globe.
The genesis of The JR Robinson Experience can be traced back to December 2021. JR, along with organist and music director Mitch Towne and a band of top-tier musicians, played iconic hits at The Jewell, leaving audiences in awe. The overwhelming response to these performances inspired JR to take the show on the road. With a renewed interpretive approach, JR aims to share his musical gift and insider stories from his 45-year career in the music industry.
JR's journey began in Creston, Iowa, where he was introduced to music by his father, a local chorus leader and violinist. By age seven, JR had found his calling with the drums, and by ten, he was already performing professionally. His dedication to music led him to Berklee College of Music, where he honed his craft and began working with local Boston artists. His big break came when he joined Rufus and Chaka Khan, which catapulted him to Los Angeles and into the world of high-profile session work.
Throughout his career, JR has played with an astounding array of artists across multiple genres, from Barbra Streisand to Daft Punk. His ability to seamlessly blend into any musical style has made him a sought-after session drummer, contributing to the success of countless tracks over the decades.
In addition to The JR Robinson Experience, JR is set to release his memoir, "King of the Groove," with a foreword by Quincy Jones. The book offers a candid look into JR's life, sharing lessons of struggle, triumph, and the importance of believing in oneself. It is a must-read for musicians, fans, and entrepreneurs alike, reflecting JR's charismatic personality and his profound insights into the music industry.
Image provided by: Rob Shanahan
The JR Robinson Experience promises a setlist that reads like a greatest hits collection: “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough,” “All Night Long,” “Saving All My Love for You,” “Ain’t Nobody,” “I Can’t Help It,” “Slow Hand” by the Pointer Sisters, and many more. The show features tight and compelling arrangements delivered by a stellar lineup of musicians, including Dave Delhomme, Michael Thompson, Jeff Babko, Morris Pleasure, Lenny Castro, and vocalists Allison Nash, Maya Azucena, and Celeste Butler. The JR Robinson Experience guarantees an evening of unforgettable music and good vibes.
The JR Robinson Experience is set to launch in 2025, promising to bring JR's legendary drumming and rich musical history to audiences around the world. This live show is more than a concert; it's a celebration of a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
As JR himself says, "Give the people what they want without sacrificing your artistic freedom." The JR Robinson Experience is poised to do just that, offering a unique blend of musical excellence and heartfelt storytelling that will resonate with fans old and new.
For more information, visit John "JR" Robinson's official website and stay tuned for tour dates and updates.
Join us and listen to the full interview with Legendary Drummer John "JR" Robinson on the Savoir Faire Audio Experience.