John "JR" Robinson on Soundbrenner's wearable metronomes

John “JR” Robinson, often called the most recorded drummer in history, has shaped the sound of countless legendary artists from Michael Jackson to Quincy Jones to Daft Punk. When Robinson talks about rhythm, musicians listen. And when he endorses a tool like the Soundbrenner Pulse or Core, it's worth paying attention.

In a series of exclusive interviews with Soundbrenner, Robinson shared his insights on rhythm, timekeeping, and why Soundbrenner’s innovative wearable metronomes have become a must-have part of his practice routine. Below, discover his key thoughts and explore the full videos.

JR on the Soundbrenner Pulse: “It keeps even me in check”

Watch JR Robinson try the Soundbrenner Pulse

When Robinson first tried the Soundbrenner Pulse, he immediately recognized its unique advantage: silent, wearable vibration that keeps tempo without the distraction of audible clicks from old-school metronomes.

“No human has perfect time - but this will help you stay humble and get on a path of correctness,” says Robinson.

According to JR, the vibration feature is essential for live performances and studio work when drummers need to feel the beat rather than hear it. Robinson also praised the Pulse’s ability to:

• provide tempo feedback without interrupting the music
• be worn on the wrist, ankle, or anywhere on the body
• sync tempo wirelessly with other musicians

He calls it “an advantage every serious musician needs” - especially for drummers focused on refining their internal clock.

How timing shaped JR’s legendary career

Watch the full interview: becoming the world's most recorded drummer

Robinson’s passion for timing began early, thanks to classical piano training, big band records, and a demanding percussion mentor. Throughout his journey - from attending Berklee College of Music to becoming an in-demand session drummer - he credits a deep internal sense of time as the key to his success.

“You can line up five of the world’s greatest drummers playing the same groove - each one will feel different. The goal is to serve the song.”

Robinson emphasizes that true mastery involves both technical precision and musical feel. His advice for young musicians is clear: study hard, trust your inner clock, and never stop developing timing skills.

Rhythm is life: why musicians must understand time

Watch Soundbrenner Presents - John "JR" Robinson part 2: finding JR's rhythm

For Robinson, rhythm is not just part of music - it is a fundamental part of life itself.

“Blood flows in rhythm. Insects chirp in polyrhythms. Rhythm is life,” he explains.

He encourages musicians to first master repetition before incorporating feeling into their playing. This method builds natural groove and danceability. Developing a strong sense of time, without becoming a slave to it, is essential for creating dynamic, human performances.

Practicing with the Soundbrenner Core: the ultimate all-in-one tool

Watch how JR practices with the Soundbrenner Core

After falling in love with the Pulse, Robinson began using the Soundbrenner Core - an upgraded device that combines multiple essential tools, including a metronome, into one wearable.

Key features Robinson highlights include:

• a haptic metronome with strong, silent vibrations
• a magnetic tuner for guitar and bass players
• a decibel meter to protect hearing
• a stopwatch and traditional watch for session timing

“The Core feels unbelievably natural. It has everything I want, and there's no doubt about the tempo.”

Robinson often runs students through bpm exercises from 60 to 140 BPM using the Core to help them identify weak spots and strengthen their internal timing. He calls it an “essential tool” for any drummer serious about improving their craft.

Why John Robinson recommends Soundbrenner to musicians

Across all four interviews, John Robinson delivers a consistent message: mastering rhythm is non-negotiable, and the right tools make a major difference.

Whether it is the vibration of the Pulse wearable metronome or the all-in-one capabilities of the Core 2, Soundbrenner’s products offer an edge for any musician aiming to improve timing, stay consistent on stage, and maintain musicality.

For drummers, guitarists, bassists, and beyond, following Robinson’s example could be the key to leveling up both live and studio performances.