The 808 is a sound that’s become synonymous with punchy bass and hip-hop. But it’s not just a genre-defining sound, it’s also a piece of music history. The 808 has its roots in a piece of hardware that changed the way music is made.
In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of 808, exploring its origins, its impact, and why it’s still relevant today. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beats that have shaped decades of music.
What is 808 in Music
Referring specifically to the Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer, an 808 in music refers to a specific drum machine’s signature sound. With roots dating back to the 1980s, this iconic sound predominates in genres like hip-hop, techno, and electronic music. Foremost, the 808’s unique bass drum sound, characterized by an unmistakable thump, has left an indelible impact on the music landscape. Whether it’s a pop hit, electronic dance track, or rap anthem, it’s highly plausible that an 808 has contributed to the track’s rhythmic foundation. As such, the 808’s influence continues to reverberate across the globe; its unique sonic footprint is as potent and relevant in modern music as it was over four decades ago.
Renowned for its deep and resonant kick drum, the 808 sound dominates several music genres even today. From its genesis in the 80s, hip-hop artists remain the most prolific users, with pop and R&B musicians incorporating the iconic boom of the 808 into their tracks. In the realm of electronic music, especially techno, the 808 exercises limitless influence, punctuating beats with its distinctive thump. Each of these genres bear the indelible mark of the 808, testament to its enduring relevance and the hallmark of its sound in contemporary music.
How the 808 Drum Machine Changed Music
Drastic shifts happened in the music world with the introduction of the 808 drum machine. An unmistakable influence spread across genres, artists, and tracks alike. The primary vehicle in this musical evolution was not an instrument in the traditional sense, but paradoxically, a machine named “808”. Its distinctive bass drum sound emerged as a trendsetter in hip-hop, techno, and electronic music, profoundly transforming the industry in the 1980s. Icons such as Afrika Bambaataa, Kanye West, and Justin Timberlake embraced the 808, incorporating its unique sound into their music. Unforgettable milestones in music were set by tracks like “Planet Rock”, the album “808s & Heartbreak”, and “SexyBack”, each distinctly marked by the unforgettable 808 resonance. The engulfing wave of 808 sounds across the music industry confirms a singular truth: The 808 drum machine didn’t just influence music, it revolutionized it.
The 808 in Modern Music Production
In current musical landscapes, the 808 drum machine continues its influential trajectory, reinforcing its enduring impact across numerous musical genres. Mobile music production, a booming trend, relishes the 808’s adaptability, with producers across the globe taking advantage of this vintage device. Tracks, today, employ the 808 bass, not just for its sonic properties, but also as an essential structural element. Many top-charting songs, such as Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” exhibit a seamless integration of the 808’s unique sound. The richness of the tones produced by an 808, even under a digital facelift, remains unrivalled, solidifying its place in contemporary music production. Emerging musical styles, such as trap and lo-fi, manifest an explicit use of the 808, displaying the device’s versatility. Hence, from being a radical influence in the 80s, the 808 transcends into the 21st century as an unassailable staple, its legacy enduring in modern music production.
Must Know on 808 in Music
The 808’s impact on music is undeniable. From its roots in the 1980s, its iconic bass drum has reverberated through genres, shaping the sound of hits and influencing artists worldwide. It’s not just a blast from the past, but a sound that continues to resonate in modern music. From Kanye West to Justin Timberlake, and even the fresh vibes of Billie Eilish, the 808’s unique sound persists. As it permeates emerging genres like trap and lo-fi, it’s clear that the 808 isn’t going anywhere.
