When it comes to iconic musical instruments, the legendary Roland TR-808 drum machine never fails to make its presence felt. With its distinctive sounds and unparalleled versatility, the TR-808 has shaped the sonic landscape of multiple genres since its release in 1980.
While it’s well-known for its booming kick drums and snappy snares, the instructors and students at Point Blank L.A. have discovered unique and downright unconventional ways to incorporate the TR-808 into music. Check out the video below on how a Point Blank L.A. instructor and Aftermath Records Engineer, Adal Jamil, utilized Roland’s 808 sounds, but in the meantime, here are some other innovative ways Roland TR-808 sounds can be used in music. Let’s get into it!If you’re interested in downloading the project used by Adal in the video, head to Point Blank’s free sounds page, login or register to get your free download.
- Experimental Soundscapes: The TR-808 isn’t just for trap beats and hip-hop grooves. Artists like Aphex Twin, Autechre, and Flying Lotus have utilized the TR-808 to craft experimental soundscapes in their music. By modifying its parameters and exploring unconventional sound design techniques, the TR-808 can be transformed into a generator of unearthly soundscapes. Point Blank encourages using the 808’s built-in sequencer to program mesmerizing rhythms and experiment with pitch modulation, filter sweeps, and resonance to form eerie, atmospheric textures.
- Bass-Heavy Melodies: Point Blank reveals that melodic patterns can actually be generated with the TR-808. Examples include Marvin Gaye’s “Sexual Healing” and Kanye West’s “Love Lockdown.” Leveraging its ability to produce long decays and subtle pitch variations, Point Blank shows how you can create remarkable bass lines with the TR-808.
- Vintage Hi-Hat Chords: Point Blank demonstrates a novel way of using the TR-808’s hi-hat sounds – as chords! By programming specific patterns on the sequencer, you can create harmonic layers that enrich your arrangement.
- Talking Basslines: For animated basslines, Point Blank highlights the TR-808’s onboard “accent” function. Using accented and non-accented bass notes, a talking or animated effect can be achieved, adding a playful quality to the music.
- Percussion Versatility: Point Blank encourages the expansion of percussion horizons by using the TR-808’s drum sounds in unique ways. Experimenting with layering and combining the distinctive sounds can create new and thrilling textures.
The Roland TR-808 drum machine has more to offer than meets the eye. By thinking creatively and leveraging its unique features, anyone can transform their music into something extraordinary. Point Blank has brought to light fun and inventive techniques that can help unlock the full potential of this classic instrument. If you don’t have a TR-808, Roland Cloud has over 50 virtual instruments, including the TR-808, available to explore.Point Blank offers in-person opportunities in their Music Production, Beatmaking, or Sound Design programs if these techniques spark your interest. They often showcase these incredible pieces of gear to demonstrate their place in music production.
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