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
“Everybody Needs A 303" marked the arrival of Fatboy Slim. The track would propel him to become one of the world’s first superstar DJs.
James Lavelle of UNKLE and Alex James of PLEASURES share their thoughts on the history of Mo' Wax and its continuing influence.
The track contains all the hallmarks of classic Prodigy: a blistering synth hook, heart-stopping guitars, and the smack of the Roland TR-707.
Drawn to the unique characteristics of the JUPITER-4, Sharon Van Etten found songwriting inspiration in the iconic synthesizer.
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
Follow DJ Skratch Bastid and Pro A/V expert RomeDigs as they reflect on the power of combining livestreaming with in-person performance.
The intersection of music and technology has always been a space for happy accidents. In that pioneering spirit, we bring you this short list of musical innovations.
There are specific things musicians can do to foster wellness and stay creative, despite the challenges we all face right now.
Members of the Glastonbury Class of 2025—Colm Conlan, Dani Bernard, and Will White—give us the inside scoop from the festival this year.
The unique paths to success of these eight composers offer valuable strategies for newcomers and veterans alike.