Which eighties instrument will get a documentary of its own?
A fascinating musical instrument that revolutionized the eighties and helped many artists create their unique, chart-topping tunes has a documentary dedicated to it on the way. The…
The Roland TR-808 drum machine is making its comeback in a forthcoming documentary, where artists and producers talk about the device that changed music forever (Photo: YouTube/@AtlanticRecords)
A fascinating musical instrument that revolutionized the eighties and helped many artists create their unique, chart-topping tunes has a documentary dedicated to it on the way.
The film called “808,” will be based on the Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer (a.k.a. 808) one of the most important instruments of the early eighties that helped revolutionize electronic beats.
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It’s an electronic rhythm composer that works as a drum machine, which was originally manufactured for use as a tool for studio musicians to create demos.
Like earlier Roland drum machines, it does not sound very much like a real drum kit.
Roland TR-808 drum machine, changed electronic music. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
Becoming one of the hottest music trends of the time, the TR-808 cost a whopping $1, 195 upon its release –which was considered very affordable.
Musicians and artists all around the world have used the machine to create innovative and powerful sounds.
“808” will feature exclusive interviews with Phil Collins, David Guetta, Rick Rubin, and many more respectable artists and producers who have experienced the device.
It has been used by singers such as Marvin Gaye, The Beastie Boys and Kanye West, showing how musically diverse the medium-sized machine can be.
The rhythm of an 808 has its own internal groove, said record producer Rick Rubin in the official trailer. Rubin is known for working with artists such as Jay-Z, Lana del Rey, Adele and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
The documentary will also address why the invention was discontinued in the middle of its great success, a question that has been circling for years.
Director Alexander Dunn admits that the biggest challenge while making this (or any) film is when the starring role of the production doesnt have a voice.
It has no voice of its own, so as a protagonist, its rather difficult to mold a story around, said Dunn. ’808′ has really been a journey of discovery for me.
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“808” The Movie was produced by Atlantic Films, You Know Films and Arthur Baker and can be expected to be released in 2015.
A soundtrack including major hits originally produced by a Roland TR-808 will also be up for grabs.
