TR808s

TR808s, also known as Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer or simply 808s, refer to a class of drum sounds and patterns generated by the Roland TR-808 drum machine, an influential electronic musical instrument introduced in 1980. The TR-808 was one of the first programmable drum machines, notable for its distinctive, synthetic drum sounds that differ from acoustic drum recordings.

The TR-808 features bass drums, snare drums, hi-hats, cymbals, and other percussion sounds, all generated using analog synthesis. Its bass drum, characterized by deep, boomy tones, became a staple in various music genres, especially hip-hop, dance, and electronic music. The machine allows users to program rhythmic patterns directly onto a step sequencer, making it a flexible tool for beat creation.

Although the TR-808 was initially a commercial failure due to its high cost and somewhat limited sound diversity, it gained significant popularity among musicians for its unique sound palette. Its distinctive "booming" bass and sharp, clicky snare further contributed to its iconic status. Many artists and producers, including Marvin Gaye, Afrika Bambaataa, and subsequently electronic artists like Aphex Twin and Daft Punk, integrated TR-808 sounds into their productions.

Today, "TR808s" often refer not only to the hardware drum machine itself but also to the characteristic sounds it produces, which continue to influence modern music production. Despite being discontinued in 1983, the TR-808's legacy persists through digital samples, virtual instruments, and its enduring impact on the sound of contemporary music genres.