“Axel F” is the inescapable theme song of the classic '80s romp Beverly Hills Cop. Learn about the oddball hit and its pioneering creator.
EXPLORE HISTORY
Before the legendary producer was a household name, Steve Albini used the TR-606 to achieve the punishing drum sounds of "I'm a Mess."
Before the TR-808 and TR-909 changed hip-hop and dance, the CR-78 changed pop. Here's the story of the last Roland organ-top rhythm machine.
The legendary sonic architect shares exclusive insights about the technology and techniques behind some of his landmark productions.
Dive into this companion to the first phase of a three-part NTS radio series tracing the TR-808 across continents and cultures.
A Few Minutes with Nik Kershaw
Danny Turner
’80s pop icon Nik Kershaw takes a trip down memory lane, revealing the Roland technologies behind hit albums Human Racing and The Riddle.
Careers in Music: Angela Piva on Music Education
Mike Sparks
The music industry veteran talks Naughty by Nature, her long history with Roland, and the future of music: the kids.
Careers in Music: Steve Levine on Scoring for Video Games
Ari Rosenschein
The legendary producer shares his workflow, differences between working on games and albums, and tips for young composers.
A Few Minutes with Strand of Oaks
Danny Turner
Strand of Oaks mastermind Timothy Showalter explains how painting and meditation fueled his shift from folk rock to synth sounds.
The Power of Breath: Coming Up for Air with Today’s Wind Players
Ari Rosenschein and Carolyn Shlensky
Randal Fisher, Steve Brickman, and Hailey Niswanger reflect on their wind instrument journey, creative processes, and the breath itself.
A Few Minutes with Kasper Bjørke
Ari Rosenschein
The artist/producer gives us the scoop on evoking the spirit of ’00s NYC, experiencing early success, and whether music is a riddle we can solve.
Careers in Music: Jeff Rona on Composing for Film, TV, and Video Games
Ari Rosenschein
The legendary composer reflects on lessons he’s learned in scoring, seminal moments in musical technology, and what makes a powerful cinematic theme.
A Few Minutes with Youngr
Carolyn Shlensky
Youngr has amassed a worldwide audience with his viral one-take video performances. The multi-instrumentalist discusses family ties, his new album, and essential Roland gear.
A Few Minutes with Jane Weaver
Ari Rosenschein
Jane Weaver’s latest album is a self-contained universe. The artist discusses shaking up her studio process, cinema, and the groove.
A Few Minutes with Dani B of RAYE
Kirsten Spruch
The prolific player shares her thoughts on touring with RAYE, finding success in the music industry, and her Roland gear.
EXPLORE TECH AND TREND
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.
Run a search for “Octapad” or “Octapadist,” and you'll find a vast musical community. Learn how the instrument became a household word.
BeachLife Festival in Redondo Beach blends iconic acts, indie discoveries, and live performances shaped by Roland gear.
Learn how the biggest musical acts are challenging audience attention spans by releasing lengthy albums in today's marketplace.
Drummer XR blends drumming, green screen, and mixed-reality professional Matt Workman's immersive 3D world-building chops.