Accidental Icons: The Roland TR-808, TB-303, SP-404 and More
13 days ago
- #Electronic Music
- #Music Production
- #Roland
- Roland's TR-808, initially a commercial failure, became iconic in hip-hop and spawned genres like Miami bass and trap.
- The TB-303, designed for bass practice, was rediscovered by Chicago house producers, defining acid house music.
- JP-8000's SuperSaw waveform became a staple in trance and electronic music during the '90s VA revolution.
- Octapad SPD-20 revolutionized Indian music, creating the role of 'Octapadist' in devotional and Bollywood styles.
- SP-404 evolved from a live soundboard to a cultural phenomenon in hip-hop, celebrated annually on 404 Day.