Joseph Butler IV and Torrence Thomas discuss how the SPD-SX turned a three-piece band into a full production, blending tracks and live playing.
From Coachella to record-breaking stadium tours, the woodwind virtuoso discusses life on the biggest stages, behind-the-scenes creativity, and expanding her sound with digital instruments.
Travie McCoy’s Gym Class Heroes answered the call to return with new music. Learn about the motivation and gear behind their beats and why love is the universal language.
FEATURES
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The Malawian DJ and producer discusses her multifaceted career at the intersection of art, activism, and the sound of heritage.
Go inside Daramola's studio sessions with Shakira, Marc Anthony, and others to see how Roland synths form the secret architecture of modern Latin hitmaking.
Travie McCoy’s Gym Class Heroes answered the call to return with new music. Learn about the motivation and gear behind their beats and why love is the universal language.
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.
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.
After his Warped Tour set, Gross discusses his hybrid setup, essential Roland gear, and the importance of family and giving back.
From Detroit to dance floors worldwide, dig into the 909 Day celebrations honoring the TR-909's enduring legacy through workshops, film, and community.
Set yourself up for ongoing musical success with these step-by-step quick-start guides to the FP-40 and Piano Sphere.
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
Explore how the themes and drums on "Come as You Are” intertwine, then download the V-Drums kit to capture the Nevermind drum sound.
With useful upgrades, the TD-07 series is perfect for the progressing drummer or beginner wanting something more from the get-go.
The “Walk This Way” beat dances around the guitar and vocal rhythms to create one of the most memorable grooves in rock and hip-hop.
Taylor Hawkins was a hero to drummers everywhere. This "Behind the Beat" honors his musical legacy and the power of the Foo Fighters classic.
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.
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.
Robert is a writer, designer, and musician based in Cleveland. He maintains the JUPITER-Xpert blog covering tutorials and news related to the JUPITER-X/Xm synthesizers. Robert releases electronic music under the moniker CeeZED.
Travis Gallagher is a Texas-born creative director working as an in-house Visual Content Creator for the Roland Corporation. He has worked with artists such as Linkin Park, Timbaland, and others.
Darren is Percussion Product Manager for Roland Canada. He loves motorcycles, loud drums, and the great outdoors.
A FEW MINUTES WITH
Robin "Scanner" Rimbaud explores many genres—from avant-garde to accessible. Find out how he's gone from tape recorders to art institutions.
Brooklyn trio Nation of Language demonstrates how its '80s-synth pop credentials are not just future past but future present.
As a founder of 1500 Sound Academy, multi-instrumentalist/producer/writer Rance Dopson uses his experience to help young musicians grow.
Rarelyalways opens up about his eclectic influences, the unpredictable ways inspiration strikes, and how he sometimes denies his identity.
Ted Feighan speaks about his latest album of rainforest-drenched sonic exploration, SP love, and how a quartet of 404s creates his live show.