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
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Explore a curated collection of lesser-known gems featuring the Roland TB-303 Bass Line, courtesy of Rush Hour Music.
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.
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
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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
Utilizing the SPD-SX as a MIDI controller unlocks a new world of creative possibilities. Explore the SPD-SX as a production tool.
Looking for a Roland V-Drums kit to help you achieve your drumming goals? This introduction will help you find the ideal kit for you.
Learn how Blondie drummer Dr. Clem Burke has worked alongside a team of academics to study the physical benefits of drumming.
Explore the history and sound of the Roots' beloved track, “Mellow My Man," and learn to play some of drummer Questlove's iconic patterns.
Josh Manuel discusses hybrid drumming and how he uses Roland electronic gear to enhance his performances with Kane Brown.
Our Contributors
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Heywood is a lifelong Californian who now splits time between Los Angeles and the high desert. He is co-founder of the record label Chain Letter Collective and founded Chain Letter Press as a publishing home for both his creative output and copywriting. He lives with his spouse and their dog, Scully.
Brian Lamb AKA Unit:E is a Roland Cloud Academy instructor and admin of the MC-707 and MC-101 Facebook user group. As a DJ, he's participated in countless events across Hawaii and the West Coast.
David is Music Marketing Leader for Roland Australia. Through his experience as a radio programmer and DJ, he brings quick thinking and instinctive market knowledge to build strong connections.
Simon is a musician, drummer, software designer, sound engineer, and V-Drums Specialist for Roland Australia.
A FEW MINUTES WITH
AMÉMÉ reveals the ways his eclectic musical DNA helps him blur the lines between melodic techno, Afro, and deep house.
From Mobb Deep to Mariah Carey—the Queens-born producer shares stories from his hip-hop journey and the Roland gear he used on the way.
Keyboard virtuoso Kyle Hollingsworth of The String Cheese Incident talks gear history, love of live performance, and songwriting craft.
The wandering artist speaks about early musical memories, capturing fleeting ideas, and how a sense of place influences her writing.
From Africa to the United Kingdom, eclectic dance star Junior Simba shares his passion for infusing ethnic sounds into his songcraft.