drum machine
An electronic instrument that produces drum and percussion sounds, programmed with rhythmic patterns.
In Depth
Drum machines democratised rhythm production, allowing a single musician to create complete beats. The Roland TR-808 (1980) and TR-909 (1984) became the two most influential drum machines ever built. The 808's booming bass drum defines hip-hop, trap, and reggaeton, while the 909's punchy sounds are the foundation of house and techno. Originally designed as practice tools for guitarists and songwriters, drum machines became instruments in their own right.
The Roland TR-808 was a commercial failure when released, but discounted units found their way to hip-hop producers, and its sounds now appear on more hit records than any acoustic drum kit.