At the top of the 1990s, Prince was eager for new sounds. The JD-800 was the go-to synth on a lengthy run of albums by the prolific artist.
EXPLORE HISTORY
The lo-fi sound and aesthetic have deep roots in Japan. Dive into the colorful subculture with the Japanese beat scene's key players.
Drawn to the unique characteristics of the JUPITER-4, Sharon Van Etten found songwriting inspiration in the iconic synthesizer.
Sample a curated collection of lesser-known SP gems, courtesy of Lightfoot, the Boston-based beat impresario.
“Jam On It” by Newcleus is a true hip-hop classic. The track is dense with groove, creative production, and lyrical panache.
A Few Minutes with Stas THEE Boss
Jake Uitti
The bicoastal artist discusses the joy of sharing new musical sounds, making cosmic connections, and crafting beats with the DJ-808.
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.
EXPLORE TECH AND TREND
Instagram introduced a new feature called Reels to create and discover short, entertaining videos. Learn how artists can utilize it.
We’re spending more time than ever in front of computers and need a screen break. It can feel like we’re bouncing between platforms all day.
Once an invite-only space for execs and celebrities, Clubhouse can benefit users of all types. Learn to maximize this powerful platform.
The unique paths to success of these eight composers offer valuable strategies for newcomers and veterans alike.
Musical mad scientist Dolly Spectra discusses using her body as a MIDI controller in performance, community, and the future of electronic pop.