Explore the enduring influence of the R-8 Human Rhythm Composer on a host of musical styles in Mexico, a land of deep tradition.
Meet the man on the throne for the Josh Homme supergroup and learn how he uses V-Drums with traditional percussion to create sonic landscapes.
Explore the pioneering Jazzie B of Soul II Soul—from bona fide classics to fresh collaborations and all points in between.
FEATURES
See All »
Submerge yourself in this starting point for an experimental genre of rock music that floats, swirls, and unfolds.
David Noller and Todd Walker of Dynamix II discuss their history, the Miami sound, and the quest to find an 808 in the 1980s.
Verzuz and Rolling Live Studios point to a streaming future. Roland worked with both camps, helping up the sonics to match their visuals.
Artificial Intelligence is making its way into music. Investigate the wild new world of AI and how it's reshaping the creative landscape.
LISTENING GUIDE
Before hip-hop was the world's most dominant musical genre, several groundbreaking women blazed a fiery trail for others to follow.
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.
The legendary sonic architect shares exclusive insights about the technology and techniques behind some of his landmark productions.
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.
Learn
See All »
Centuries-old crafting techniques inform the look and feel of KIYOLA. Learn about the design and creation of the KF-20 and KF-25.
KIYOLA is the ultimate expression of a collaboration between Roland and furniture maker Karimoku. This is the story of how it happened.
The prolific percussionist shares how an insatiable curiosity for rhythm fueled his journey from Helsinki to Hollywood.
All you need is a DAW and Roland Cloud to mix your vocals like a pro. Learn how to expand your sonic horizons using these powerful tools.
SOUND BEHIND THE SONG
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.
808 State’s ode to the Roland TR-606 has stood the test of time as one of the quirkiest yet most trailblazing tunes in their discography.
TR-1000 Rhythm Creator
Roland Future Design Lab
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.
Introducing Project LYDIA
Discover the exciting audio effects Technology Preview from Roland Future Design Lab and Neutone.
What Is AI For Music?
Find out how Roland is leading the conversation around the ever-evolving technological landscape and finding ways to work with it responsibly.
DRUMS
On the eve of Rihanna's Super Bowl performance, Mike Reid discusses his history, lessons from artists, and the power of hybrid drumming.
Here is the story of DW Drums—from its earliest days as a teaching studio right up to the latest innovations.
This guide will teach you how hybrid drums can benefit your drumming by helping you enhance, layer, and expand your sound.
Rhythm is the root of drumming, but there are many paths to learning basic drum beats and concepts. Let's explore how to rock right away.
The online star shares secrets about gaining his Twitch fandom, his hi-tech setup, and what inspires him about livestreaming.
Our Contributors
See All »
Joseph's work appears in NPR, VICE, Bandcamp, Noisey, SPIN, Consequence of Sound, and more. He is also a curator at Northwest Terror Fest.
Kaori is a music teacher and ex-Roland designer of digital pianos and auto-accompaniment systems.
Based in Bath, United Kingdom Stuart is a veteran music tech journalist for outlets like Music Radar, Total Guitar, and more. In addition to his many publication credits, he was the editor of Rhythm.
Simon is a musician, drummer, software designer, sound engineer, and V-Drums Specialist for Roland Australia.
A FEW MINUTES WITH
Ali Stone's new single "Crudo," featuring ZENOLOGY, refers to a love that's pure, sincere, and gets better with time.
The enigmatic artist Photay opens up about his improvisational collaborators, the power of the weather, and how location influences art.
Miss Tahloulah May respects hip-hop heritage while pursuing her vision. She discusses beatmaking, crate digging, and the SP-404.
Brooklyn trio Nation of Language demonstrates how its '80s-synth pop credentials are not just future past but future present.
The Canadian DJ discusses how he infuses his EDM sets with a raw punk rock edge, blending high-energy beats with live drumming on V-Drums and an SPD-SX.