What is the best use of the 808?
The 808 has been used in inspiring ways by many of the greatest producers of the last 40 years. But when this unusual drum machine was first released, it wasn’t obvious how to get the best out of it. Roland thought the 808 would be used for making demo tracks – to be replaced later by a real drummer. The idea didn’t catch on, and the highly synthetic-sounding 808 sold poorly compared to other drum machines – like the LinnDrum – that offered samples of acoustic drums.
But this weakness became a strength as adventurous producers began to use the 808’s electronic sound to unlock new creative pathways, from hip-hop to house. Rap producers value the 808 for its booming kickdrums (these kicks are often what’s meant when people refer to “808s”). Electro producers, meanwhile, use the 808 to create snappy, syncopated beats, and pop artists have relied on 808 beats to give heartfelt songs an electronic edge. Each use shows a different side of this versatile, iconic instrument.
What songs use the Roland 808?
Some of the best-loved songs of the past 40 years feature the TR-808, from rap classics like Africa Bambaataa’s “Planet Rock” to pop ballads like Marvin Gaye’s “Sexual Healing,” taking in house and techno, speaker-busting trap, and more. The 808 is so widely used that we often don’t even notice it. This 808 Day, we’ll explore ten must-know songs that use the Roland 808, explaining how the drum machine is used, and shedding light on some production tricks to help you get the best 808s.
What song has the best 808?
There are many “best” 808 beats, depending on the kinds of music you’re into. If you’re looking for the heaviest trap 808s, you might find them in a Future track like “I Serve The Base.” For classic hip-hop, it could be T-La Rock’s “It’s Yours.” The best club track featuring 808 beats might be A Guy Called Gerald’s “Voodoo Ray,” or maybe Plastikman’s “Spastik.” We’ll look at all of these tracks (and more) in detail below, dissecting their use of the 808 and trying to explain the key to their success.
