Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Roland TR-808

"But I know ya'll wanted that 808 can you feel the B-A-S-S bass" sings Andre 3000 from Outkast. What, ask you, is an 808?

Well it's not an area code, but one of the first programmable drum machines. Introduced by Roland in 1980, this device was meant for musicians to create drum beats in the studio without forcing a drummer to pick up his sticks. The sound of this device became very distinct, in part due to its kick drum sound, which could produce very deep sub-bass.

The group 808 State named itself after this classic little wonder. Additionally, Kaney West's fourth studio album is entitled 808s & Heartbreak. Kanye insisted that every track use TR-808 generated drum beats for a more 'tribal drum' sound.

No comments: