John JR Robinson Interview - Drummer's Resource
February 24, 2014

019 – John JR Robinson: Know your niche

In this podcast I talked to drummer John “JR” Robinson, who is regarded as the most recorded drummer in history.  Getting his big break in 1976 with the band Rufus,  John soon found himself in the studio with Quincy Jones recording Michael Jackson’s “Off the Wall” record and has been recording hit records ever since.  JR can be heard on records from Eric Clapton’s “Change the World”, Michael Jackson / Lionel Richie’s  “We are the world”, Daft Punk’s “Random Access Memories” and thousands of other songs.…totaling over 300 Million units sold.  JR is a true legend in the music world and his insight in this podcast is invaluable.

“If you’re passionate, driven and focused you can do everything you wanna do.” – Dave Growl (Tweet this)

In this interview you will hear John JR Robinson talk about:

  • How John got started with drumming
  • John’s high school and college music career
  • His big break with Rufus
  • Recording with Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones
  • Advice for drummers about recording
  • John’s approach to grooving
  • What it takes to be a professional
  • Sitting in with bands (do’s and don’ts)
  • MUCH MUCH MORE…

Resources and Links mentioned in the interview:

John JR Robinson’s Website
Rufus and Chaka Khan
Daft Punk – Random Access Memories
DJ Cassidy
Kimbra
NARAS
Berklee School of Music 
Time Machine (DVD)

David Foster and Friends (DVD)