Sound Behind the Song: “Rio” by Duran Duran “Rio” cemented the British fivesome as synth-pop legends and MTV superstars. The JUPITER-4 arpeggio is a defining sound of the '80s hit. by Kat Bein 2 mins read
Sound Behind the Song: “Vogue” by Madonna At the heart of the classic is its use of the TR-909. The drum machine's crisp attack evokes the heady world of NYC and its fashionistas. by Ari Rosenschein 2 mins read
Drumatix: The Perpetual Appeal of the TR-606 The TR-606 endures for its crisp, punchy sound, as well as trigger capabilities and extensive mods. Find out why it remains a classic. by Peter Kirn 5 mins read
Sound Behind the Song: “Stranger Things” by Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein Explore the show's haunting theme song and learn how the composers leaned on vintage synths, including the Roland JUPITER-8 and SH-2. by Kat Bein 3 mins read
Sound Behind the Song: “Blue Drive” by Oneohtrix Point Never “Blue Drive” moves like a meditative improvisation, with no calculated beginning or end. Oneohtrix Point Never guides us using the JUNO-60. by Mike Sparks 1 min read
John P. Kee: A Lifetime of Uplifting Audiences with Song Jake Uitti Since he was a young person, music has brought joy to John P. Kee. Now he shares that same experience with audiences all over the world.
A Few Minutes with Scanner: Pursuing Immersive Sound Andrew Emil Robin “Scanner” Rimbaud explores many genres—from avant-garde to accessible. Find out how he’s gone from tape recorders to art institutions.
A Few Minutes with Gattobus: From Roland Fan to Family SIRMA Gattobus received his first Roland keyboard at 16. Find out how he became a sound designer for the SYSTEM-8, FANTOM, JUPITER-X, and others.
A Few Minutes with Rance Dopson: Visionary Dreamer Ari Rosenschein As a founder of 1500 Sound Academy, multi-instrumentalist/producer/writer Rance Dopson uses his experience to help young musicians grow.
A Few Minutes with Rarelyalways: Manic Expression Ari Rosenschein Rarelyalways opens up about his eclectic influences, the unpredictable ways inspiration strikes, and how he sometimes denies his identity.
A Few Minutes with Mndsgn: Expanding Possibilities Kat Bein Mndsgn has spent over a decade exploring inner truths as danceable moods. Find out why creating his latest was such a rare artistic pleasure.
Jacknife Lee: Studio Adventures and Philosophy Ari Rosenschein Jacknife Lee has produced U2, REM, The Killers, Snow Patrol, and more. Still, his hunger for innovation means he never rests on his laurels.
A Few Minutes with MARNIK: Educating the Dancefloor Ari Rosenschein Italian duo MARNIK discusses ’90s inspiration, all-star collaboration, and how their V-MODA headphones can withstand a meteorological event.
Noga Erez: From Tel Aviv with Authenticity Clint Ward With sophomore LP, KIDS, Noga Erez and Ori Rousso completed a three-year journey. The record overflows with evocative vocals and production.
Frank McNulty: A Family’s Musical Journey Ari Rosenschein Music keeps us young and brings families together. Frank McNulty and his daughter Jules talk about influences, upbringing, and Roland pianos.
The Birth of the Roland Lifestyle Brand The Roland Lifestyle brand builds on the company's legacy while looking to the future. See how it's introducing Roland to new generations. by Kirsten Spruch 6 mins read
Live Music in the Coronavirus Era With the world hit by a pandemic, live events were postponed or canceled. In the Coronavirus Era, virtual concerts have taken their place. by Kirsten Spruch 6 mins read
The Business of Music: Your Guide to DIY Publicity You've made the music, now what? A full-time music publicist teaches you how to pitch your project and get coverage—DIY style. by Kristin Robinson 4 mins read
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. by Adam Douglas 5 mins read
NAMM 2025 Scene Report Relive the inspiring performances, exclusive product debuts, and groundbreaking discussions showcased at the 2025 NAMM Show. by Carolyn Shlensky 4 mins read