The JD-800 is front and center in this sampling of tracks by legendary artists. Explore these classics and fall in love with the '90s again.
EXPLORE HISTORY
"Closer" by Nine Inch Nails is built around a densely layered groove featuring the TR-606. The edgy track achieved great chart success for the band.
Explore the pioneering Jazzie B of Soul II Soul—from bona fide classics to fresh collaborations and all points in between.
The spiraling of the TR-909 on "Hunter" weaves a web of percussion. Immediately, the track draws the listener into a world of intrigue.
In the mid-'80s, there was little edgier in the mainstream than NYC’s notorious Beastie Boys, and "Paul Revere" was their origin story.
A Few Minutes with Nathan Fake
Ari Rosenschein
Nathan Fake creates music that exists on multiple planes. The artist discusses the early Internet, Roland gear, and running a label.
A Few Minutes with George Daniel of The 1975
Danny Turner
As co-writer and producer for British alt-rockers The 1975, George Daniel’s association with Roland is integral to the band’s sound.
A Few Minutes with Gerald V. Casale of Devo
Danny Turner
Devo’s cult status remains indelible. Co-founder Gerald V. Casale reminisces about the band and its longstanding association with Roland.
A Few Minutes with KiNK
Jamie Franklin and Ari Rosenschein
KiNK speaks about his unique upbringing, Roland faves, and the joy of finding classic breaks on floppy disks.
A Few Minutes with Plaid
Ari Rosenschein
The British duo shed light on their rural youth, work process, and how an intergalactic voyage informs its latest release, Feorm Falorx.
Label Spotlight: Mo’ Wax Records and UNKLE
Jamie Franklin and Ari Rosenschein
James Lavelle of UNKLE and Alex James of PLEASURES share their thoughts on the history of Mo’ Wax and its continuing influence.
A Few Minutes with Hinako Omori
Danny Turner
Japanese-born Hinako Omori visited Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios to blend locally sourced field recordings with binaural technologies.
Roland & ME
Roland Global
Musical tales from the last fifty years—directly from the people creating the sounds. Explore these unique Roland stories.
John Grant: Facets of the Boy from Michigan
Jamie Franklin and Ari Rosenschein
On the eve of Meltdown Festival, John Grant discusses his adopted home, the Grace Jones-curated event, and the Roland Facet grand piano.
Curtis Byrd: A Life of Rhythm
Ari Rosenschein
Curtis Byrd discusses the twists and turns along his musical journey and how the beat has always been there to guide him.
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.
Our holiday season this year will be different than any other. This cozy winter playlist features comforting songs to make it easier.
Musical mad scientist Dolly Spectra discusses using her body as a MIDI controller in performance, community, and the future of electronic pop.
With the world hit by a pandemic, live events were postponed or canceled. In the Coronavirus Era, virtual concerts have taken their place.
Follow DJ Skratch Bastid and Pro A/V expert RomeDigs as they reflect on the power of combining livestreaming with in-person performance.