Discover how the Reading-based music charity is introducing vintage electronic instruments to a new generation.
After his Warped Tour set, Gross discusses his hybrid setup, essential Roland gear, and the importance of family and giving back.
Set yourself up for ongoing musical success with these step-by-step quick-start guides to the FP-40 and Piano Sphere.
FEATURES
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The singer-songwriter and her musical director discuss unexpected career pivots, AAPI representation in music, and life on tour.
Chuck Comeau and Jeff Stinco discuss their favorite Roland and BOSS gear, the key to the band’s longevity, and the thriving pop-punk scene.
From music shop beginnings to Gorillaz and The Prodigy: Tom “Woody” Wood reveals how passion, knowledge, and relationships built his career.
As a member of SML, collaborator, and solo artist, Chiu’s unmistakable synth thumbprint is at the center of contemporary experimental music.
LISTENING GUIDE
Submerge yourself in this starting point for an experimental genre of rock music that floats, swirls, and unfolds.
Find out how 9th Wonder helped reshape the rules of sample-based production in the 21st century with this selection of classics.
From droning electronic pieces to spiritual soundscapes, these records offer a beautiful entry point into this immersive genre.
The trailblazer combined synthesizers, tight songwriting chops, and an evolving glam sci-fi image. Probe the outer limits of his discography.
Explore the pioneering Jazzie B of Soul II Soul—from bona fide classics to fresh collaborations and all points in between.
Learn
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The iconic singer opens up about her career journey, the power of pop music, and how she stays in the flow state when playing piano.
From Detroit to dance floors worldwide, dig into the 909 Day celebrations honoring the TR-909's enduring legacy through workshops, film, and community.
The 25-year-old British singer-songwriter behind one of R&B's most buzzed-about debuts traces his gossamer sound to the vintage synth that defined a generation.
Ahead of GROUPLOVE’s BeachLife Festival performance, drummer Ben Homola breaks down his hybrid setup, the gear that keeps him consistent, and more.
SOUND BEHIND THE SONG
Join us on a walk through the mysterious sycamore trees of Twin Peaks, as we unveil the secrets behind the show’s legendary opening theme.
Doctor Who, the sci-fi phenomenon, has taken many forms—and so has its theme. Discover how the 1980 version became a definitive classic.
Find out how David Bowie and Iggy Pop created a slapback-saturated swing that takes the listener on a hazy nighttime stroll through Berlin.
The cultural ramifications of "Big Fun" are difficult to measure. Inner City drafted the sonic palette for a movement.
FP-40 with Piano Sphere
Roland Future Design Lab
Designing Access: An Interview with Jason Dasent
Meet Jason Dasent: music producer, accessibility advocate, and the architect of Roland’s first dedicated support resources for visually impaired V-STAGE players.
Project LYDIA Phase II: Neural Sampling Evolved
Learn how Project LYDIA Phase II reflects what Roland Future Design Lab and Neutone learned from feedback and how the project is progressing.
Roland’s New Global Headquarters: Inside the Inspiration Hub
Roland has unveiled a new headquarters in Japan that unites R&D and administration staff under one roof in an inspiring workspace.
A Look Inside Roland Future Design Lab
Roland Future Design Lab lead Paul McCabe, Senior Vice President of Research and Innovation, discusses the group’s mission and future.
DRUMS
The “Purple Rain” drum parts by Bobby Z. provide a classic example of how to play a power ballad for maximum emotional impact.
For a top-of-the-line electronic drum kit, look no further than the TD-50X series. Every element combines for a superb drumming experience.
The "Superstition" groove reminds us that, alongside his songwriting and musicianship, Wonder is one of the greatest drummers around.
With a wide world of drum gear to explore, get clarity on the type of drum set that will help any new drummer thrive.
Master percussionist and hybrid drummer Karl Vanden Bossche talks DW Drums, Latin Percussion, Roland V-Drums, and grooving with Gorillaz.
Our Contributors
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Christian is Director of Global Digital Marketing at Roland Corporation. If he had a professional memoir it would be titled, From Organic Chemistry to Organic Engagement. He lives in LA with his wife and daughter.
Christine Ochefu is a writer, copywriter and editor whose work has appeared in W Magazine, i-D, Dazed, The Guardian, GQ, Evening Standard, The Fader, and more. She is an expert in music technology, having worked with the likes of Amazon Music, Apple Music, BBC, Monocle and more. She is currently working on her first novel.
An LA-based booking agent with This Is Who We Are Now, Emily organizes Record Club Los Angeles, Presence, and many other events. Her work appears in L.A. Record and Razorcake .
Andy is a technology consultant, musician, educator, writer and photographer. He also publishes NJJazzList.com, providing consulting, technical writing, articles, and images to corporate clients and publications.
A FEW MINUTES WITH
Drift through the sonic waters of Julianna Barwick’s ethereal vocal loops on a journey from her Los Angeles kitchen to the waterfalls of Iceland and the sun-soaked walkways of Paris.
The enigmatic artist Photay opens up about his improvisational collaborators, the power of the weather, and how location influences art.
The multifaceted artist discusses his career encompassing everything from jazz-inflected percussion to art installations.
Born in Puerto Rico and based in Los Angeles, Pachyman creates hypnotic tracks that take the listener on a pilgrimage to an unusual space.
The singer-songwriter and her musical director discuss unexpected career pivots, AAPI representation in music, and life on tour.