The term “808” has become an integral part of modern music and pop culture, symbolizing the deep, bass-heavy sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. But have you ever wondered where this term originated from? In this article, we will delve into the history and significance of the “808” and explore why it has become such an iconic symbol in the music industry.
Introduction to the Roland TR-808
The “808” refers to the Roland TR-808, a revolutionary drum machine that was first introduced in 1980 by the Japanese electronics company Roland Corporation. The TR-808 was designed to be a more affordable and user-friendly alternative to the earlier drum machines, and it quickly gained popularity among musicians and producers. The machine’s unique sound and features made it an instant hit, and it went on to play a significant role in shaping the sound of various music genres, including hip-hop, electronic, and pop.
The Birth of the TR-808
The story of the TR-808 begins in the late 1970s, when Roland’s founder, Ikutaro Kakehashi, set out to create a drum machine that could replicate the sound of a live drummer. Kakehashi, a visionary and innovative entrepreneur, had a passion for music and technology, and he saw an opportunity to create a machine that could democratize music production and make it more accessible to artists. The result was the TR-808, a compact and versatile drum machine that could produce a wide range of sounds, from basic drum patterns to complex percussion sequences.
Key Features of the TR-808
The TR-808 was equipped with a range of innovative features that set it apart from other drum machines of its time. Some of the key features included:
A built-in sequencer that allowed users to create and edit drum patterns
A variety of programmable sounds, including bass drum, snare drum, and hi-hats
A unique “accent” feature that allowed users to add emphasis to specific drum hits
A compact and portable design that made it easy to take on the road
These features, combined with its affordability and user-friendly interface, made the TR-808 an instant hit among musicians and producers.
The Impact of the TR-808 on Music
The TR-808 had a profound impact on the music industry, and its influence can still be heard today. The machine’s unique sound and features helped to shape the sound of various music genres, including hip-hop, electronic, and pop. Many famous artists, including Marvin Gaye, Prince, and the Beastie Boys, used the TR-808 in their music, and it became a staple of 1980s pop culture.
Hip-Hop and the TR-808
The TR-808 played a particularly significant role in the development of hip-hop music. The machine’s deep, bass-heavy sound was perfect for creating the funky, danceable beats that characterized early hip-hop. Many hip-hop pioneers, including Afrika Bambaataa and the Soulsonic Force, used the TR-808 to create their signature sound, and it quickly became an integral part of the hip-hop aesthetic.
The Legacy of the TR-808
Today, the TR-808 is widely regarded as one of the most influential drum machines in history. Its unique sound and features have been emulated and sampled countless times, and it continues to inspire new generations of musicians and producers. The term “808” has become synonymous with the deep, bass-heavy sound that the machine is famous for, and it is often used to describe music that features this type of sound.
Why is it Called 808?
So, why is the Roland TR-808 referred to as the “808”? The answer is simple: the “808” refers to the machine’s model number, which was assigned by Roland when it was first released. The TR-808 was the eighth model in Roland’s TR series, and the “808” designation was chosen to reflect this. Over time, the term “808” has become synonymous with the machine itself, and it is now widely used to describe the unique sound and features that the TR-808 is famous for.
The Cultural Significance of the 808
The “808” has become a cultural phenomenon, symbolizing the deep, bass-heavy sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. The term is often used in music production and hip-hop culture to describe a specific type of sound or aesthetic, and it has been referenced in countless songs, music videos, and films. The “808” has also become a symbol of nostalgia, evoking memories of the 1980s and the early days of hip-hop and electronic music.
The Enduring Legacy of the 808
In conclusion, the “808” is more than just a model number or a type of sound – it is a cultural phenomenon that has had a profound impact on the music industry and popular culture. The Roland TR-808 is a testament to the power of innovation and creativity, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians, producers, and music fans. Whether you are a seasoned music producer or just a fan of hip-hop and electronic music, the “808” is a term that is sure to resonate with you, and its influence can still be heard in music today.
In terms of key takeaways, the main points to remember are:
- The “808” refers to the Roland TR-808, a revolutionary drum machine that was first introduced in 1980.
- The TR-808 had a profound impact on the music industry, and its influence can still be heard today.
- The machine’s unique sound and features helped to shape the sound of various music genres, including hip-hop, electronic, and pop.
Overall, the “808” is a term that is deeply ingrained in music culture, and its significance extends far beyond its origins as a model number. It is a symbol of innovation, creativity, and the power of music to bring people together and inspire new generations of artists and fans.
What is the origin of the term 808?
The term 808 originates from the Roland TR-808, a revolutionary drum machine released in 1980 by the Japanese electronics company Roland Corporation. The TR-808 was one of the first programmable drum machines, allowing users to create custom drum patterns and sounds. It was widely used in the music industry, particularly in the genres of hip-hop, electronic, and pop music. The TR-808’s unique sound and versatility made it a staple in music production, and its influence can still be heard in modern music today.
The Roland TR-808’s impact on music was immense, and its name became synonymous with the deep, booming bass sound that it was capable of producing. Over time, the term 808 has become a cultural reference point, symbolizing the sound and style of hip-hop and electronic music. The term is often used to describe the heavy, bass-driven sound that is characteristic of these genres, and it has become a widely recognized and iconic symbol of music culture. The legacy of the Roland TR-808 continues to inspire new generations of musicians and producers, and its influence can be heard in a wide range of musical styles and genres.
What are the key features of the Roland TR-808?
The Roland TR-808 is a highly influential drum machine that features a range of innovative tools and functions. One of its key features is its ability to produce a wide range of drum sounds, from deep bass drums to sharp snare drums and hi-hats. The TR-808 also features a built-in sequencer, allowing users to create custom drum patterns and rhythms. Additionally, the machine has a range of controls and parameters that allow users to customize the sound and feel of their drum patterns, including tuning, decay, and accent controls.
The Roland TR-808’s user interface is also noteworthy, featuring a simple and intuitive layout that makes it easy to use and program. The machine’s compact size and portability also made it a popular choice among musicians and producers, who could easily take it on the road or use it in the studio. The TR-808’s combination of innovative features, versatility, and user-friendly design made it a groundbreaking instrument that helped to shape the sound of modern music. Its influence can still be heard today, and it remains a highly sought-after and iconic piece of music equipment.
How did the Roland TR-808 influence hip-hop music?
The Roland TR-808 had a profound influence on hip-hop music, particularly in the early days of the genre. The machine’s deep, booming bass sound and versatile drum patterns made it a perfect fit for hip-hop’s rhythmic and percussive style. Many early hip-hop producers, such as Afrika Bambaataa and the Soulsonic Force, used the TR-808 to create the distinctive sound of hip-hop, which emphasized heavy basslines and driving drum patterns. The TR-808’s influence can be heard in classic hip-hop tracks such as “Planet Rock” and “Looking for the Perfect Beat,” which feature the machine’s signature sound.
The Roland TR-808’s influence on hip-hop music extended beyond its sound, as it also played a key role in the development of hip-hop’s cultural and artistic identity. The machine’s affordability and accessibility made it possible for young producers and musicians to create high-quality music without needing expensive studio equipment. This democratization of music production helped to fuel the growth of hip-hop, as a new generation of artists and producers were able to create and distribute their own music. The TR-808’s influence on hip-hop music can still be heard today, and it remains a beloved and iconic instrument in the hip-hop community.
What is the significance of the number 808 in music culture?
The number 808 has become a significant symbol in music culture, particularly in the genres of hip-hop and electronic music. The number is often used as a reference to the Roland TR-808 drum machine, which is widely regarded as a classic and influential instrument. In music production, the term 808 is often used to describe a specific type of deep, booming bass sound that is characteristic of the TR-808. The number 808 has also been used in song titles, album names, and music videos, often as a nod to the machine’s influence and legacy.
The significance of the number 808 extends beyond its reference to the drum machine, as it has also become a cultural symbol of hip-hop and electronic music. The number is often used to represent the sound, style, and attitude of these genres, which emphasize heavy basslines, driving rhythms, and futuristic production techniques. In popular culture, the number 808 has been referenced in films, television shows, and commercials, often as a way to evoke the sound and style of hip-hop and electronic music. The number 808 has become a widely recognized and iconic symbol of music culture, and its influence can be heard and seen in a wide range of artistic and cultural contexts.
How has the Roland TR-808 been used in modern music production?
The Roland TR-808 has continued to be used in modern music production, despite the advent of newer and more advanced drum machines and software plugins. Many producers and musicians still swear by the TR-808’s unique sound and character, which is often described as warm, analog, and authentic. The machine’s sounds and patterns have been sampled and incorporated into a wide range of musical styles, from hip-hop and electronic music to pop and rock. In addition, the TR-808 has been emulated and recreated in software plugins and virtual instruments, making it possible for producers to access its sounds and features in a digital format.
The Roland TR-808’s influence on modern music production can be heard in the work of many contemporary artists and producers, who often use the machine’s sounds and patterns as a starting point for their own creative work. The TR-808’s legacy can be heard in genres such as trap, drill, and future bass, which often feature heavy, bass-driven sounds and rhythms. The machine’s influence can also be seen in the design and development of new music equipment and software, which often pays homage to the TR-808’s innovative features and design. The Roland TR-808 remains a beloved and iconic instrument in modern music production, and its influence continues to be felt in a wide range of musical styles and genres.
What is the cultural impact of the Roland TR-808?
The Roland TR-808 has had a significant cultural impact, extending beyond its influence on music production and into the wider realms of art, fashion, and popular culture. The machine’s distinctive sound and style have been referenced and homaged in a wide range of creative works, from films and television shows to music videos and commercials. The TR-808 has also become a symbol of hip-hop and electronic music culture, representing the sound, style, and attitude of these genres. In addition, the machine’s influence can be seen in the design and development of new music equipment and software, which often pays homage to the TR-808’s innovative features and design.
The Roland TR-808’s cultural impact can also be seen in its influence on fashion and art, where the machine’s distinctive sound and style have been referenced and incorporated into a wide range of creative works. The TR-808 has been name-checked in songs, referenced in music videos, and even featured in museum exhibitions and art installations. The machine’s iconic status has also made it a sought-after collector’s item, with vintage TR-808s selling for thousands of dollars on online marketplaces and auction sites. The Roland TR-808’s cultural impact is a testament to its enduring influence and legacy, and its influence continues to be felt in a wide range of creative and cultural contexts.
How has the Roland TR-808 been preserved and celebrated?
The Roland TR-808 has been preserved and celebrated in a number of ways, including museum exhibitions, art installations, and documentary films. The machine’s influence and legacy have been recognized by institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, which have featured the TR-808 in exhibitions and collections. In addition, the TR-808 has been celebrated in documentary films and books, which have explored its history, influence, and cultural significance.
The Roland TR-808 has also been preserved and celebrated by the music community, with many producers and musicians continuing to use and pay homage to the machine in their work. The TR-808 has been emulated and recreated in software plugins and virtual instruments, making it possible for new generations of producers to access its sounds and features. In addition, the machine’s influence can be heard in a wide range of musical styles and genres, from hip-hop and electronic music to pop and rock. The Roland TR-808’s preservation and celebration are a testament to its enduring influence and legacy, and its impact continues to be felt in a wide range of creative and cultural contexts.