“Love Lockdown" by Kanye West utilizes the Roland TR-808, the heartbeat of electronic music production since the early 1980s.
EXPLORE HISTORY
In this exclusive interview, the legend shares about creating "Acid Tracks," birthing a genre, and the early days of the Chicago house scene.
’70s hip-hop provided the perfect soundtrack to a good time. Get transported back to that magical period with these ten songs as portals.
Explore a curated collection of lesser-known gems featuring the Roland TB-303 Bass Line, courtesy of Rush Hour Music.
Travel back in time to the year 1985 to find out what makes the JX-8P so unique among the Roland polysynths and why it remains so beloved.
Scene Report: CRSSD Fest Spring 2025
Ari Rosenschein
Peer inside this idiosyncratic fest with four unique acts from spring 2025 who discuss their artistry and what makes CRSSD so special.
A Few Minutes with Σtella
Ari Rosenschein
Hailing from Greece, the artist opens up about capturing the attention of Sub Pop and how the Roland INTEGRA-7 helped create her new album.
A Few Minutes with Howard Jones
Ari Rosenschein
The legendary songwriter and performer discusses Roland synthesizers, positive thinking, and music’s power to transform.
Sheila E.: A Glamorous Life of Rhythm
Nate Duchene
Learn about the legendary percussionist’s family legacy, powerhouse collaborations, and career highlights.
Patrice Rushen: Always in the Moment
Ari Rosenschein
The legendary songwriter and keyboardist opens up about her beginnings, achievements, and what she hopes to impart to her students.
A Few Minutes with Hannah Holland
Ari Rosenschein
Following the release of the soundtrack to Bruce LaBruce’s film The Visitor,
Hannah Holland examines the path from club kid to DJ to music producer.
A Few Minutes with Molchat Doma
Danny Turner
From ’80s synthwave to ’90s synth rock, Belarusian post-punk trio Molchat Doma reveals the gear that makes the group tick.
A Few Minutes with Xiu Xiu
Danny Turner
Jamie Stewart, the confessional frontperson of experimental rock band Xiu Xiu, explains their love for Roland drum machines.
A Few Minutes with Photay
Ari Rosenschein
The enigmatic artist Photay opens up about his improvisational collaborators, the power of the weather, and how location influences art.
Can’t Kick This Feeling: A History of Moodymann and KDJ Records
Mike Rubin
Kenny Dixon Jr. has released a steady stream of dance floor classics since 1994. Dig into the history of this icon of Motor City music.
EXPLORE TECH AND TREND
Our holiday season this year will be different than any other. This cozy winter playlist features comforting songs to make it easier.
K-pop groups increasingly claim the spotlight on the world stage. Industry insiders give us insights into what makes the style so popular.
Since 2005, Reddit has become a powerful resource for topics across the board. How is it especially useful for musicians?
A group of eclectic Icelandic artists offer unique perspectives on electronic music performance, their home country, and more.
Join the 404 Day worldwide takeover with community-driven SP-powered events, showcases, workshops, and interactive demos.