By: Alyssa Thorne

John “JR” Robinson is widely regarded as one of the most recorded drummers in history—a figure who embodies the fusion of artistry and leadership. His new memoir, King of the Groove: How One Dream Transformed into 60 Years of Making Legendary Music, co-authored with Allison Mang and Ralph Benmergui, offers more than just an insider’s view of the world of global superstars. It provides a reflective journey into the heartbeat behind the hits—a journey fueled by mentorship, sustained by creativity, and guided by a purposeful drive.

With contributions to over 50 Grammy-winning recordings and more than 200 Billboard Hot 100 hits, Robinson’s career traces a timeline through modern music history. From Michael Jackson’s Rock with You to the iconic We Are the World, Robinson’s drumming has been an integral part of some of the most memorable songs ever recorded. Yet, when speaking with him, it’s clear that his success has always been more about his deep, soulful connection to music and the influential people who shaped his path than about pure technical ability.

The Mentors Behind the Groove

When asked about the mentors who have shaped his journey, Robinson reflects first on the impact of his father, John Herbert Robinson, who instilled in him the drive to persevere. “Don’t wait for someone else to make your path easier. Work for what you want and show up ready,” his father would say. This foundational advice played a significant role in setting the course for a career marked by self-reliance and a pursuit of excellence.

From there, other significant mentors and collaborators entered his life. Ed Soph, whom Robinson met at the National Stage Band Camp in high school, was the first to refine his technique. “He immediately corrected bad habits—especially my bass drum technique,” Robinson recalls. “Ed taught me about listening, space, and fills,” Soph remembers young JR as eager to learn, already demonstrating a deep passion for growth and a natural aptitude for drumming.

Rod Temperton, the late genius behind many of Michael Jackson’s greatest hits, was another key figure. During the recording of Rock with You, Temperton and Quincy Jones encouraged JR to create a drum fill that would become one of the most recognizable in pop history. That spontaneous yet pivotal moment helped solidify Robinson’s place in music history. “Rod taught me about precision, groove, and the role of melodic hooks in rhythm,” Robinson reflects.

However, it is Quincy Jones—affectionately known as “Q”—who occupies a special place in Robinson’s heart. “He’s been my mentor, my surrogate father, and my friend since 1978,” Robinson shares. Jones provided Robinson with not just a chance but also an invaluable education, inviting him to observe sessions during the making of Off the Wall and treating him as an equal. “He listened to my ideas and trusted me,” Robinson says. “Those memories are golden.”

Keeping the Flame of Creativity Alive

For Robinson, creativity is not a fleeting spark but a continuous and evolving force. “I make sure I’m constantly listening to a wide variety of music,” he explains. This habit keeps his musical intellect sharp and encourages his evolution as an artist. New projects, like his jazz-fusion trio SRT and his rock/soul group Citizen Gain, allow him to explore new musical horizons. “Even after decades in the business, I make it a point to put myself in new musical situations to keep growing,” he says.

Part of that growth involves adaptability. Whether he’s modifying his drum kit for a jazz track or crafting an unexpected groove for Alice Cooper, Robinson believes that the music should dictate the tools. “For each artist, I might change my drum setup entirely,” he notes.

Despite a career that has already earned him a prominent legacy, Robinson remains committed to collaboration. “Playing with others brings you into the present moment. It creates immediate unity and conflict—two opposing forces that are crucial in any meaningful artistic endeavor.”

Legacy, Leadership, and Lifelong Learning

At this stage in his career, Robinson is less focused on accolades and more on the impact he can have. “It’s not about proving anything,” he says. “It’s about challenging myself and passing on what I’ve learned.” This philosophy led to the creation of the John JR Robinson Music Through Arts Fund, which aims to support youth music education.

New projects continue to come his way. Plans are in motion for a docuseries and global concert tour featuring Chaka Khan and Rufus. Robinson is still a trusted collaborator of David Foster and finds the same thrill in sitting behind a drum kit today as he did when he first began his musical journey.

For Robinson, leadership is about elevating others. “True leadership in music isn’t about being the loudest. It’s about creating a foundation that lifts everyone else up,” he says. Whether he was taking charge during the chaotic We Are the World sessions or patiently accommodating a producer’s shifting vision, Robinson consistently demonstrates poise and purpose.

His humility, even when working with legends like Ray Charles, shows a profound respect for the craft and the collaborative process. “These experiences teach you to check your ego at the door,” Robinson reflects. His presence in the studio, as bassist Lee Sklar notes, inspires rather than intimidates: “Let’s make this recording great,” JR often says, turning every session into a shared mission.

A Groove That Keeps Giving

King of the Groove is more than just a career retrospective—it’s an emotional tribute to the enduring power of music, mentorship, and continuous growth. It reveals a man who has performed for millions but still finds joy in the discovery of new musical moments. “What drives me,” Robinson says, “is the pursuit of excellence.”

Indeed, JR’s groove is not just heard—it’s felt. Through his music, his mentorship, and now his memoir, that groove continues to resonate across generations.

Available Now

King of the Groove is available in paperback, audiobook, and Kindle editions on Amazon and other major retailers.