Roland TR-808

Definition

The Roland TR-808 is a drum machine that was released in 1980 and became iconic in music production, particularly in hip-hop and electronic genres. Its unique sound, characterized by deep bass kicks and snappy snares, revolutionized music creation and is now a staple in various styles, influencing artists and producers worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The TR-808 was one of the first drum machines to use analog synthesis rather than samples, giving it a distinctive sound that was not replicable by other devices at the time.
2. Despite initially being a commercial failure, the 808 gained popularity in the 1980s due to its affordability and unique sound, particularly within hip-hop culture.
3. Many classic hip-hop tracks from the Golden Age heavily featured the TR-808, making it an essential tool for producers like Afrika Bambaataa and Marvin Gaye.
4. The TR-808's bass drum sound became a defining characteristic of hip-hop production, providing a heavy low-end punch that complemented rapping styles.
5. Today, the TR-808 continues to influence contemporary music across genres, with its sounds being incorporated into pop, electronic dance music (EDM), and even rock.

Review Questions

• How did the Roland TR-808 influence hip-hop production techniques in the early days of the genre?
  • The Roland TR-808 had a significant impact on hip-hop production techniques by providing producers with an affordable way to create distinctive beats. Its deep bass kick and crisp snare sounds became essential elements in hip-hop tracks, allowing artists to explore innovative rhythmic patterns. The availability of the 808 allowed for greater experimentation in production, leading to a unique sound that defined the genre during its formative years.
• In what ways did the TR-808 contribute to the sound of 1980s pop and new wave music?
  • The TR-808 contributed to the sound of 1980s pop and new wave music by offering producers a versatile tool for creating catchy rhythms and hooks. Its programmable features enabled artists to craft intricate drum patterns that were crucial for dance tracks during this era. Many iconic songs from the 80s incorporated the 808's distinctive sounds, bridging genres and influencing mainstream pop culture's direction.
• Evaluate the lasting legacy of the Roland TR-808 in today's music landscape compared to its initial reception in the early 1980s.
  • The legacy of the Roland TR-808 has evolved dramatically from its initial reception as a commercial failure to becoming an indispensable part of modern music production. Initially dismissed by many artists, it has since been embraced by countless musicians across various genres as a foundational instrument. Its sounds are now ubiquitous in contemporary hip-hop, EDM, and pop music, demonstrating how influential it has become over time. The TR-808 not only shaped the development of music production techniques but also solidified its place as a cultural icon within the industry.

Related terms

Sampling: The technique of using snippets of sound recordings in new musical compositions, allowing artists to incorporate pre-existing sounds into their work.

Synthesizer: An electronic instrument that generates audio signals and can create a variety of sounds through the manipulation of parameters like pitch and tone.

Beatmaking: The process of creating beats or rhythmic patterns for music, often using drum machines, samplers, and software to produce tracks.