This legend was around at the start of the Los Angeles rap game. The self-proclaimed Willy Wonka talks N.W.A, 808s, and his own futurism.
The prolific UK producer discusses Roland gear, mysterious vinyl releases, and collaborating with Thom Yorke and Jonathan Zawada.
Born in Puerto Rico and based in Los Angeles, Pachyman creates hypnotic tracks that take the listener on a pilgrimage to an unusual space.
FEATURES
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The enigmatic artist unpacks the sounds behind his noir masterpieces and explains how the element of chance contributed to his viral success.
The legendary songwriter and keyboardist opens up about her beginnings, achievements, and what she hopes to impart to her students.
Meet seven successful Broadway musicians who carved their own paths to the stage and into the orchestra pit.
From Joni Mitchell to Steely Dan, Tom Scott reflects on unforgettable moments from iconic collaborations that shaped his career—and left a lasting impact on the musical landscape.
The keytar-wielding hockey organist talks about his unusual music journey, building a brand, and lending piano chops to a hit HBO series.
LISTENING GUIDE
Explore trip-hop from its early days to the current renaissance centering on a new generation of artists mining the genre's laidback beats.
Jim Keltner has been a go-to session drummer since the '70s. From ex-Beatles to Bob Dylan to Steely Dan, here’s a taste of the legendary player.
Synthesizers in music production brought about a massive cultural shift. Take a trip into this groundbreaking genre.
The trailblazer combined synthesizers, tight songwriting chops, and an evolving glam sci-fi image. Probe the outer limits of his discography.
Stones Throw Records challenges perceptions, demonstrating how a scrappy indie can create a deep cultural impact. Explore these essentials.
Learn
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Top keyboard players and music directors convene in the capital to discuss their careers and how V-STAGE helps them stay in the moment.
Learn how to take your soft synths into uncharted territory by pairing them with the Roland Cloud BOSS Effects Pedals plug-in.
The TR-707 and TR-727 drum machines are more than just coveted vintage units. Learn about the ways in which modders have made them their own.
Learn the origin story of vocal harmonizers and processors and explore the science behind creating vocal harmonies with music technology.
SOUND BEHIND THE SONG
Mr. Oizo’s “Flat Beat” was an infectious song written for a Levi's® ad starring an orange puppet named Flat Eric. At its heart was the TR-606.
“Rio” cemented the British fivesome as synth-pop legends and MTV superstars. The JUPITER-4 arpeggio is a defining sound of the '80s hit.
Doctor Who, the sci-fi phenomenon, has taken many forms—and so has its theme. Discover how the 1980 version became a definitive classic.
“Caribbean Blue” by Enya is a tapestry of layered vocals over a bed of JUNO-60 pads. Its sounds evoke the pull of nature on the human psyche.
V-STAGE SERIES
Roland Future Design Lab
The Making of Tone Explorer: An Interview with Kazuyoshi Sasamori of Roland Future Design Lab
Learn about the Tone Explorer concept, challenges, and what might come next from Roland Future Design Lab.
Roland Future Design Lab at Audio Developer Conference 2024
Follow the RFDL team recently to the birthplace of trip-hop, Bristol, UK, for the annual ADC 2024 Audio Developer Conference.
Tone Explorer: Technology Preview for GALAXIAS
Tone Explorer is a technology preview from Roland Future Design Lab, made available for music creators to try as a GALAXIAS Labs Experiment.
DRUMS
The Roland TD-1 series gives beginning drummers everything they need to enjoy the instrument and excel without breaking the bank.
Noah Hyppolite discusses hybrid hip-hop drumming and how he navigates the intersection of touring with Mick Jenkins and a career in aerospace.
Daru Jones has a style all his own. The hybrid drummer discusses touring with Jack White, custom kits, and the importance of individuality in hip-hop.
The “Purple Rain” drum parts by Bobby Z. provide a classic example of how to play a power ballad for maximum emotional impact.
Learn about the legendary percussionist's family legacy, powerhouse collaborations, and career highlights.
Our Contributors
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Charles “BLVK Samurai” Burchell is a music producer, rapper, multi-instrumentalist, and educator from New Orleans, Louisiana.
Darren is Percussion Product Manager for Roland Canada. He loves motorcycles, loud drums, and the great outdoors.
Web media on the topic of synthesizers and music production tools.
A writer by fate, journalist by passion, and storyteller by vision. Bylines at: REVOLT, Grammys.com, Complex, Discogs, Vibe Magazine, Okayplayer, REVERB, and LEVEL Mag.
A FEW MINUTES WITH
Jane Weaver's latest album is a self-contained universe. The artist discusses shaking up her studio process, cinema, and the groove.
The enigmatic artist Photay opens up about his improvisational collaborators, the power of the weather, and how location influences art.
The British duo shed light on their rural youth, work process, and how an intergalactic voyage informs its latest release, Feorm Falorx.
Devo's cult status remains indelible. Co-founder Gerald V. Casale reminisces about the band and its longstanding association with Roland.
Born in Puerto Rico and based in Los Angeles, Pachyman creates hypnotic tracks that take the listener on a pilgrimage to an unusual space.