Original SP-404 designer Kenji Yamada and current project leader Takeo Shirato discuss the 404 concept, its widespread popularity, and more.
Break down the techniques to create 303-based sounds, complete with step-by-step programming tips and real-world track references.
Roland uses a “V” to indicate instruments embodying a specific set of virtues. Learn about the engineering process culminating in V-STAGE.
FEATURES
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David Noller and Todd Walker of Dynamix II discuss their history, the Miami sound, and the quest to find an 808 in the 1980s.
Jim Keltner has been a go-to session drummer since the '70s. From ex-Beatles to Bob Dylan to Steely Dan, here’s a taste of the legendary player.
Relive the inspiring performances, exclusive product debuts, and groundbreaking discussions showcased at the 2025 NAMM Show.
Join the 404 Day worldwide takeover with community-driven SP-powered events, showcases, workshops, and interactive demos.
LISTENING GUIDE
Synthesizers in music production brought about a massive cultural shift. Take a trip into this groundbreaking genre.
The trailblazer combined synthesizers, tight songwriting chops, and an evolving glam sci-fi image. Probe the outer limits of his discography.
Stones Throw Records challenges perceptions, demonstrating how a scrappy indie can create a deep cultural impact. Explore these essentials.
Broken beat was created by a community of producers with roots in London's various club scenes. Here are some of the genre's foundational records.
One of the most distinctive polys of the ’80s, the JX-3P is the secret sauce on tracks from movie themes to quirky indie cuts.
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Looking for a music production app to help achieve your goals? Learn how the evolving features in Zenbeats can help you find your sound.
From humble beginnings to working with James Blake, Bob Mackenzie explains how the Roland SP-404MKII fuels creativity
Join the 404 Day worldwide takeover with community-driven SP-powered events, showcases, workshops, and interactive demos.
Original SP-404 designer Kenji Yamada and current project leader Takeo Shirato discuss the 404 concept, its widespread popularity, and more.
SOUND BEHIND THE SONG
“Acid Tracks” spread like wildfire from Chicago across the globe. Learn how the TB-303 gave birth to a smiling generation of clubbers.
When that muted guitar lick comes in against those TR-707 rimshots, it feels too good not to dance. This is the tale of the INXS classic.
Mantronix mixed Kraftwerk's experimental feel with the warmth of Grandmaster Flash. "Scream" remains a landmark electro-funk hip-hop mashup.
At the heart of Tangerine Dream’s hypnotic “White Eagle” lies a secret—one kept between the band and a pair of JUPITER-8s.
SP-404MKII
KDJ Records Limited Edition
Roland Future Design Lab
The Making of Tone Explorer: An Interview with Kazuyoshi Sasamori of Roland Future Design Lab
Learn about the Tone Explorer concept, challenges, and what might come next from Roland Future Design Lab.
Roland Future Design Lab at Audio Developer Conference 2024
Follow the RFDL team recently to the birthplace of trip-hop, Bristol, UK, for the annual ADC 2024 Audio Developer Conference.
Tone Explorer: Technology Preview for GALAXIAS
Tone Explorer is a technology preview from Roland Future Design Lab, made available for music creators to try as a GALAXIAS Labs Experiment.
DRUMS
During 2020, many of us turned to creative pursuits while at home. For Simon Gottliffe, his positive escape came from drumming.
Learn about the legendary percussionist's family legacy, powerhouse collaborations, and career highlights.
With its groundbreaking design, DWe represents an entirely new experience for drummers. Discover where to find DWe in Europe
Looking for a Roland V-Drums kit to help you achieve your drumming goals? This introduction will help you find the ideal kit for you.
Simon Ash helps aspiring drummers of all ages on their percussion paths. Electronic drums are at the core of his instructional style.
Our Contributors
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Charles “BLVK Samurai” Burchell is a music producer, rapper, multi-instrumentalist, and educator from New Orleans, Louisiana.
Jamie is Artist Relations Manager for Roland Europe Group. A walking musical encyclopedia, he's also an avid trivia fan with interests in numerous areas.
Lisa is Global Retail Relations Manager at Roland. She's also a lifelong musician with an extensive touring history and discography.
Paul is SVP, Research & Innovation for Roland. Previously VP of Customer Experience for Roland Corporation, VP of Global Marketing, and with Roland Canada, he served in the roles of President & CEO, COO, Product Manager, Marketing Communications Manager, and more. Paul is a family man, composer, IT enthusiast, and science fiction fan.
A FEW MINUTES WITH
Daktyl is turning heads with his distinctive beats. The self-proclaimed gearhead discusses his influences, sample arsenal, and collabs.
Jubilee grew up in Miami where the 808 shaped her sonic DNA. She talks about keeping spirits high and how music creates community.
Badflower is a band where chemistry is paramount. The members speak from the studio where they're working on their sophomore release.
Ali Stone's new single "Crudo," featuring ZENOLOGY, refers to a love that's pure, sincere, and gets better with time.
The prolific player shares her thoughts on touring with RAYE, finding success in the music industry, and her Roland gear.