We spoke to legendary DJ Marley Marl on the red carpet at the Global Spin Awards last year and we asked him to make a suggestion for DJs just now entering the game. "Go back to the 808s," was his knee-jerk reaction.
He is, of course, referring to the TR-808 drum machine, one of the most iconic and recognizable parts of hip-hop beat-making, initially popularized by Afrika Bambaataa on the hit "Planet Rock" and immortalized in the title of Kanye West's 808s & Heartbreak. Arthur Baker and Atlantic Films will release a documentary profiling the historic instrument during 2015, simply titled 808. Baker is best known as the DJ for Bambaataa at the time when "Planet Rock" was changing the musical world.
"Making a documentary about a drum machine, a piece of electronic equipment, is an interesting challenge," said director Alexander Dunn. "It has no voice of its own, so as a protagonist, it's rather difficult to mold a story around. 808 has really been a journey of discovery for me. One that led myself and the team to meet over 50 musicians and artists from all around the world."
The list of musicians and producers featured in the film is no small thing. Everyone from Phil Collins to Diplo, Damon Albarn to Lil Jon is featured. Perhaps the most interesting interview will be with Ikutaro "Mr. K" Kakahashi, the founder of Roland. One question that's been bugging musicians for years is why the 808 was discontinued after such a short period despite its obvious fan base. Perhaps 808 will finally bring some closure.
Rolling Stone currently has the exclusive trailer, which you can check out here.
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