Roland uses a “V” to indicate instruments embodying a specific set of virtues. Learn about the engineering process culminating in V-STAGE.
FEATURES
See All »The legendary songwriter and keyboardist opens up about her beginnings, achievements, and what she hopes to impart to her students.
The trailblazer combined synthesizers, tight songwriting chops, and an evolving glam sci-fi image. Probe the outer limits of his discography.
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.
The When We Were Young music festival is a niche celebration where emo fans reunite to soak in nostalgia and fuel the resurgence of pop-punk’s popularity today.
LISTENING GUIDE
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.
Stones Throw Records challenges perceptions, demonstrating how a scrappy indie can create a deep cultural impact. Explore these essentials.
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.
The past decade saw hip-hop go stratospheric. This playlist highlights tracks that helped the genre dominate the international stage.
The D-50 ushered in a new era of popular music that crossed all genres. Hear the synth in action with this varied selection of tracks.
Learn
See All »Learn about the legendary percussionist's family legacy, powerhouse collaborations, and career highlights.
Roland uses a “V” to indicate instruments embodying a specific set of virtues. Learn about the engineering process culminating in V-STAGE.
Songwriter James Fauntleroy shares exclusive thoughts on the songwriting process behind creating hit songs with a range of artists.
Whether this is your first instrument or you’re adding keys to your repertoire, learn tips and tricks for your first 90 minutes with GO:KEYS.
SOUND BEHIND THE SONG
“Blue Drive” moves like a meditative improvisation, with no calculated beginning or end. Oneohtrix Point Never guides us using the JUNO-60.
Explore the mysterious backstory of “Pump Up the Jam,” a worldwide electronic music smash and tale of mistaken identity.
“Axel F” is the inescapable theme song of the classic '80s romp Beverly Hills Cop. Learn about the oddball hit and its pioneering creator.
Before the legendary producer was a household name, Steve Albini used the TR-606 to achieve the punishing drum sounds of "I'm a Mess."
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
For Neil Peart's birthday and in remembrance of his immeasurable contribution to drumming, we journey back to revisit the Time Machine.
Hybrid drumming blends acoustic and electronic elements. Frank Zummo discusses his approach and gear during the final Sum 41 world tour.
Rhythm is the root of drumming, but there are many paths to learning basic drum beats and concepts. Let's explore how to rock right away.
Noah Hyppolite discusses hybrid hip-hop drumming and how he navigates the intersection of touring with Mick Jenkins and a career in aerospace.
The TD-17 series is the perfect introduction to an electronic kit. Get top-tier sounds and tools to make every drummer better, faster.
Our Contributors
See All »Ari is Sr. Manager, Brand Storytelling Copy and Editorial for Roland. He lives in Seattle with his wife and dogs and enjoys the woods, rain, and coffee of his region.
Joseph's work appears in NPR, VICE, Bandcamp, Noisey, SPIN, Consequence of Sound, and more. He is also a curator at Northwest Terror Fest.
Lisa is Global Retail Relations Manager at Roland. She's also a lifelong musician with an extensive touring history and discography.
Lyle Crilly works with Roland's Global Artist Relations team and lives in Toronto, Ontario with his wife and new puppy. He enjoys a good shot of caffeine in the morning, yurting, and Cumbia.
A FEW MINUTES WITH
Jubilee grew up in Miami where the 808 shaped her sonic DNA. She talks about keeping spirits high and how music creates community.
House music icon Ron Trent opens up about his formative years, distinguished collaborators, and how a trio of cities shaped him.
From Africa to the United Kingdom, eclectic dance star Junior Simba shares his passion for infusing ethnic sounds into his songcraft.
Octave One’s Lenny Burden reveals the tools and techniques behind the duo’s tactile, electrifying live sets.
Musical mad scientist Dolly Spectra discusses using her body as a MIDI controller in performance, community, and the future of electronic pop.