All About That Bass

This episode of 20,000 Hertz, shared on 99% Invisible, explores the history and impact of the Roland TR-808 drum machine. It traces the evolution of drum machines from simple home organ accompaniments to the revolutionary 808, highlighting its initial lack of popularity due to its artificial sound compared to the new sampling drum machines. The podcast emphasizes the 808's adjustability, particularly the "decay" knob on the bass drum, which allowed musicians to create unique, booming sounds that transformed hip-hop and other genres. Featuring insights from DJ Jazzy Jeff and Roland's Paul McCabe, the episode illustrates how the 808 defied expectations and became a defining instrument in modern music, influencing countless artists and shaping the sound of popular music today.